One of the best films of the 1990's

Rating: 10/10 (31 August 2000)

This was one of the best films of the 1990's and was all but snubbed by the Academy. It was nominated for seven Oscars in 1995 including best picture, but it came up empty, trodden under by the Gump stampede.
Frank Darabont's adaptation of Stephen King's short story was a thing of beauty. The story of an accountant who thinks his way out of a maximum-security prison, and survives on sheer intelligence, guile and will is expertly spun and engrossing. The ending is uplifting and exhilarating.
Both Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman gave career performances. Robbins was outstanding in the portrayal of a character whose phlegmatic and understated persona belied his cunning and razor sharp intellect. Freeman was also fantastic as the old convict who knew how to get things done in the joint. Freeman's performance got him a Best Actor nomination in a year when Tom Hanks was a cinch.
Everything about this film was superlative. The direction, the cinematography, the sound and the music were all top flight. It is difficult to comprehend how such an accomplished film was left with so little acclaim.
I rated this film a 10/10. I highly recommend it, although viewers should be advised that there is some disturbing prison violence. Don't miss it.