a film to treasure

Rating: 10/10 (10 November 2000)

The Shawshank Redemption is one of those films which will stick with you for the rest of your life. You'll always remember it, think of it fondly, and smile when you think of the best parts of the film. Many films come and go in your memory (will you honestly look back at a film like Armageddon and think of it in the same light? I hope not), but this is one which has become great, and will become greater with time.
Everyone knows the story, so I will save time relating that to you, but I will say that the story has many levels to it, which are not as obvious to some viewers. The multitude of characters which the story gives us all have meaning and consequences to the two central characters, Andy and Red. (Think about the references to/theme of birds). All the characters are a pleasure to watch, and come to life by the actors. However, the actors inhabit their roles so well, its hard to see them in different roles now.
Tim Robbins was unfortunate not to be nominated for any other award than the screen actors guild award, because he brought such weight and balance to the film, where Morgan Freeman had the slightly more showy role, bringing dignity and honesty to it. I think any nomination or award for either of the actors should have been shared.
Frank Darabont is a talented director who has a good eye for what looks good on screen, has a way with his actors to produce the best out of them, understands how to tell a good story, and is likely to produce fine pieces of work in the future.
I have always loved this film, and the story is just one which warms the heart and blood just thinking about it.