A Truly Awe Inspiring Film - A Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (3 January 2007)

It is very hard to think of something bad about this film.The direction is incredible, bringing about highly memorable performances, and a beautifully shot film.
Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman are sensational, carrying this film on their shoulders as if it were the easiest job in the world - a tribute to them as this film must have been an incredibly demanding shoot - it is a long and emotional film.
The development of their friendship is wonderful to watch, as is Andy's gradual assimilation into the prison society - however sad it may well be.
Frank Darabont it seems was the ideal man to take the helm of this movie. Many films in this sort of genre can feel like they are missing something, as if there were sections left on the editing room floor - not this film, everything fits perfectly in to place. This leads to a very long film, (which could perhaps be its only criticism - be warned it is long - though the longer the better for me) but one which sucks you right into the prison world, and keeps you right there until the utterly stunning last shot of the film!
Viewers should be warned that some scenes are of a disturbing nature, dealing with issues that may offend some people. However, this should not put you off seeing this film. It deals with the realities of prison, and in no way glorifies the goings on.
What we must realise however, is that this film is not necessarily about the brutality of prison and the way prison society operates, it is about human connection and interaction, and the indomitable nature of the human spirit. By the last scene we should feel uplifted at what has been achieved - not only by the characters in the story however, but by the film makers!
This film is deservedly number 3 on the top 250 list! Congratulations to all involved in making it! A must see for anyone! Sensational 10/10