While not fully appreciated when it was released in theaters, it's greatness has grown with each consistent viewing. There are so many amazing things to point out about such a film, but let's start with the story.
Based on the novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King (yes, that one), the film tells the story of Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a successful banker who is accused and convicted of murdering both his wife and her secret lover, and spends the next 20 years in Shawshank State Prison, all the while maintaining his innocence. The story follows him as he develops a strong bond with a fellow inmate, Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman), and learns to adapt to his new life inside the cold stone walls of the prison.
The true magic of the film can be found in the performances of the cast, both featured and supporting. While I never have been (and possibly never will be) a fan of Tim Robbins, there is no denying that his portrayal of Andy is absolute perfection. Just as perfect is the performance of Morgan Freeman as Red. While trying to pick a definitive Morgan Freeman role is like trying to pick your favorite child, his portrayal of a convicted murderer full of remorse over a crime committed as a thoughtless youth, broadcasts his pure and natural talent front and center, and he is absolutely amazing to watch.
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| B&W still of Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins from The Shawshank Redemption. |
The supporting cast proves how adept Frank Darabont is with his casting choices. Bob Gunton and Clancy Brown both deliver performances both shockingly evil, but tremendously enjoyable. Also of note are brilliant turns from William Sadler as Heywood, a fellow convict in Red's inner circle, and James Whitmore as elderly inmate Brooks Hatlin. The wise choice to choose talented character actors instead of more well-known "Hollywood" names, gives the performances more depth, and allows the supporting cast to enrich the storytelling even more.
For fans of other things than just the plot and characters, the cinematography by longtime master Roger Deakins is stunningly beautiful. The color palette used is solemn with it's blues and grays, but it only enhances the visuals (a similar choice that worked for him on another recent film that he shot, The Coen's True Grit). The amazing score from Thomas Newman (mixed with some wise music cues as well) is also nothing short of fantastic.
The nice thing about The Shawshank Redemption is that it's a timeless story, but one that is accessible to all. Unlike a lot of typical Hollywood fare, you'll find no car chases, shootouts, gratuitous sex, excessive CGI, or anything else other than one simple formula: take a great story, fill it with capable performers, and allow it to speak for itself. This allows the film to speak to all audiences, despite their age, gender, race, etc.
There really is nothing more I can say about this film, other than this: if you've seen it already, you know I speak the truth, and if you haven't, get busy watchin'. Listed below are links to where you can purchase a variety of editions on both DVD and BluRay, or for you Netflix folk, the film is easily available to add to your list. I recommend no film higher than this one, and the greatest accomplishment of this blog, is if one person takes the chance and experiences something new.
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