The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption: the unlikely classic.

When originally released (though critically acclaimed on its second release), not much was thought of what appeared on the surface to be your average prison film - not a particularly high budget, no special effects and a relitively small constrictive set, could it really offer anything new?

The answer to that is, of course, yes. The enthralling, innovative and engaging plot holds your attention for the entire duration of the film, its perfect cast carry the narrative effortlessly with their outstanding performances - I refer primarily to Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, who's onscreen relationship will touch even the most cynical audience. Also, the underlying tone of resignation conflicts with the hope portrayed by the characters as the film progresses - this is visually supported by the cold, unfriendly and claustrophobic nature of the prison, contrasting with the promise and inspiration that the smallest piece of music or a few cold beers can bring.

The story follows the journey of prison inmate, Andy Dufresne, who has been wrongly convicted of murder and must learn to deal with the new and alien environment of an American state prison. An educated man, Dufresne ascends the 'ranks', both socially, in the eyes of his fellow convicts, and 'professionally', in the eyes of the authorities, eventually resulting in a banking job for the prison staff. This position aids Dufresne's ingenious and eventually successful plan to escape Shawshank prison.

The Shawshank Redemption is truly an excellent film for the most fundemental reasons - it saddens, it delights, it portrays reality and yet gives hope, it involves yet distances the audience and most importantly it entertains - a wholely captivating experience.