The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on Stephen King’s 1982  book Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. The film has Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne and Morgan Freeman as Ellis Redding he is known in prison as “Red”. At first when the movie came out in theater it was not a major box office success upon its initial release, it really became popular through television airing and movie renting. Today it is highly regarded as one of the best films and consistently ranks at the top of IMDB’s list of top rated movies. The film was nominated for 7 academy awards, including best picture, best actor, and best adapted. The movies theme of friendship, hope, and perseverance has made it a classic inspiring many around the world.

The story begins with the trial of Andy Defresne a successful banker is convicted of murdering his wife and her . He is sentenced to 2 life sentences at Shawshank Penitentiary, Andy has to learn to survive in a rough prison with corrupt personnel. Inside shawshank Andy befriends Ellis Redding known also as “Red” he is a man known in prison “to locate things from time to time”.  Over the years Andy uses his skills to help the warden with money laundering this gains him some protection and respect. Despite the brutality of prison life Andy still has a strong sense of hope, he helps improve the prison library, educate his fellow inmates, and brings a sense of purpose to other prisoners. After 20 years Andy escapes through a tunnel he had been secretly digging, he exposes the warden scandal and flees to freedom in mexico. When red is finally offered parole the story ends with them reuniting on the beach in mexico.

I had my doubts at first but after watching the movie I can say that The Shawshank Redemption is one of the greatest films I have ever laid my eyes on. When you really focus on the movies symbolism and message in the story you can understand why. One of the greatest strength in the film is its portrayal of hope, In a place design to crush you, Andy’s hope acted as some form of shield or resistance that I believe spread through other prisoners. Visually I would say the film was pretty bland and I think that pretty much summarizes prison, I really liked the shot of Andy standing in the rain after his escape, a symbol of liberation and rebirth. In conclusion Shawshank redemption is not just a prison movie, It explores hope, freedom, and friendships and it makes the viewer really think about these topics it sends a message that even in tough times hope can set you free. I truly believe this film deserves all the praise.