A Genuine Classic

Rating: 10/10 (9 July 2003)

My personal opinion is that the Shawshank Redemption is the greatest film ever made. However I fully appreciate the fact that this is not everybodys opinion. My knowledge of the film industry while not conclusive, is considerably extensive, and in my short time on earth I would like to believe that I have seen enough movies and learned enough about them to warrant comment on this particular gem. From the opening sequence to the memorable finale, this is filmaking at its finest hour. Yes, the overall message may be simple, but the study of human nature throughout the film relays the complexities and frailties of the human race. I dont think there is one fault in this film and I have watched it many times now. I have seen many film opinion polls at this stage and I cannot remember shawshank being outside the top five in any of them. So we all cant be wrong. What it all boils down to is whether or not a film can move you, or leave a profound effect on you. Films like Shawshank, Seven, Braveheart, American History X and Jaws had a hugh effect on me, these films to me are what makes movies magical. For someone else it might be pulp fiction, the godfather or its a wonderful life. The magic of the movies is the effect that a particular film has on the particular person. I think the shawshank redemption had a profound effect on so many people, because we can identify so well with the point its trying to put across (Hope is a good thing, even when all seems lost) and that true friendship can get us out of the worst of times. Films will always have their critics, thats the nature of the business, but I was always told they dont make them like they used to, this film is proof that they still can. P.S. Stephen King is a genius.