Possibly missing the point?

Rating: 10/10 (7 April 2003)

In reading many reviews of this film, it is evident that people will either absolutely love it, or absolutely loath it. I definitely am sided with the loving of the movie, however I believe some people are catching a different reason about why it is so enjoyable. Those who hate this movie definitely don't see the same message and definitely don't get the point. This movie is not made to be a "typical prison movie" because this one doesn't focus on those same ideas. Sure, there are similarities, but that's to be expected. As far as I know (for never having gone to prison) these depictions of prison are accurate, however, this film differs in the fact it is about HOPE. The movie isn't just about the main character trying to free himself from prison, it is about his journey through so many years of being beaten, raped, and abused, and never losing his hope. The other prisoners in this movie tell him that hope is a dangerous thing, that it can drive people crazy. He ignores the warnings and keeps his hope. The most beautiful scene in this film is when he plays the music of the opera over the loud speaker. "And just for that one moment, every last man in Shawshank felt free" are roughly the words Morgan Freeman says in his commentary. With the cinematography and the words, the feeling of hope is even implanted in the viewers themselves. I ask that those who dislike this film take it from that aspect the next time they see it, instead of an analytical viewpoint, focusing on directing style, costumes, "typical prison stuff" and other things and just let their souls take in the true meaning and feeling of hope, and what a beautiful emotion it is. I also ask that those who love it view the movie again and put yourself in a position where you felt there was no hope, that no one could help you but yourself, and let yourself become entangled in this wonderful web of hope and truly let this film be a redemption of your mind and soul.