The Best Film from a Stephen King Novel

Rating: 9/10 (28 August 2004)

'I wish that I could tell you that Andy fought the good fightand the Sisters let him be. I wish I could tell you thatbut prison is no fairy-tale world.' This quote nicely sums up The Shawshank Redemption, a film that earnestly shows the violent life in prison, but chooses not to focus on the violence, rather using it to portray emotion.
Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a successful banker, is convicted for the murder of his wife and her lover. The judge describes Andy as cold and sends him to the Shawshank prison to serve two life sentences. Andy, however, maintains his innocence, despite the fact that he was seen at the murder scene carrying a weapon.
In prison, Andy eventually gains the respect of his inmates, including the influential prisoner 'Red' (Morgan Freeman) who 'gets things' for the prisoners. Later, Andy's knowledge of finance gains him popularity with the cruel prison guards and the Warden (Bob Gunton).
The development of the friendship between Red and Andy is one of the focal points of the film as each man learns from the other. Several subplots are nicely intertwined into the film, none better than the story of old Brooks Hatlen (James Whitmore) and his release from prison. Having spent so much time at Shawshank, Brooks has become 'institutionalised' i.e. so attached to prison that he cannot cope in the outside world. The sense of helplessness and solitude Brooks feels when released is one of the films most genuinely emotional moments.
The plot of the movie is solid, and while it encompasses some 20 years, it transitions well and never really feels slow. Credit for this must go to screenwriter Frank Darabont who nicely adapts Stephen King's novel to the big screen.
The entire cast of the movie gives standout performances, led by Robbins. Robbins portrays Andy beautifully throughout the film, especially with his facial expressions. His eyes are incredibly focused and haunting throughout and he often wears a smile on his face that belies his situation. Freeman does well as Red, playing him with confidence and a sense of despair at the same time.
Visually the film opts for a very grey tone that fits in with the dreary feel of the prison and the prisoners. It also succeeds in helping Andy to stick out, as his hope and demeanour contradict the tone.
The Shawshank Redemption is a truly beautiful film, easily one of the best of the 90's, filled with a great story, acting, emotion and a series of memorable quotes.