02. THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994)
Considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever produced,
The Shawshank Redemption tells the story of Andy Dufresne (
Tim Robbins), a young man incorrectly convicted of his wife and her lovers murder. The story based on a
Stephen King novella is one of eternal hope and tenacity in the face of insurmountable odds.
Frank Darabonts lyrical direction adds real beauty to the unjust tale and offers a unique take on the theme of the wrongly convicted innocent man. Robbins and
Morgan Freeman (as Ellis Red Redding, another inmate) are career-defining within their roles and The Shawshank Redemption is an equally fantastic film due to this, as well as Darabonts remarkable handling of the source material. Whilst Dufresnes escape from prison offers a more traditional reading of the narrative trait, it is not the main thematic element of the plot. Legendary film critic Roger Ebert has suggested that the film is more about maintaining feelings of self worth in a situation that is deemed hopeless. Darabonts take on Kings novella perfectly captures these themes, at the same time managing to generate suspense and genuine feelings of compassion within the audience. The Shawshank Redemption has touched so many audiences with its tale of everlasting hope in the face of the worlds injustice, that it is destined to remain a timeless classic for generations.