Movie Detailed Information Page
The Shawshank Redemption
"The Shawshank Redemption" is a drama film directed by Frank Darabont and released in 1994. It is based on the novella "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" by Stephen King. Here's a bio of the film:
Title: The Shawshank Redemption
Director: Frank Darabont
Release Year: 1994
Genre: Drama
Runtime: 142 minutes
Plot:
"The Shawshank Redemption" tells the story of Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins), a banker who is wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and her lover. He is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary, where he encounters a harsh and unforgiving prison environment.
In prison, Andy forms a friendship with Red (played by Morgan Freeman), an inmate who serves as the film's narrator. Together, they navigate the challenges and injustices of prison life while maintaining hope for a better future. Andy's unique skills as a banker earn him favor with the prison officials, allowing him to create opportunities and make a positive impact on the lives of his fellow inmates.
Throughout the film, Andy maintains his innocence and seeks justice while showcasing resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. The story explores themes of friendship, hope, redemption, and the indomitable nature of the human will.
Main Characters:
- Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins): A wrongly convicted banker who maintains his innocence and demonstrates resilience and hope while serving his life sentence.
- Ellis Boyd "Red" Redding (played by Morgan Freeman): An inmate at Shawshank who befriends Andy and serves as his confidant and narrator of the story.
- Warden Samuel Norton (played by Bob Gunton): The strict and manipulative warden of Shawshank State Penitentiary who is more concerned with maintaining power than pursuing justice.
- Tommy Williams (played by Gil Bellows): A young inmate who becomes a crucial element in Andy's quest for freedom.
- Brooks Hatlen (played by James Whitmore): An elderly inmate who struggles to adjust to life outside of prison after being released.
Significance and Impact:
"The Shawshank Redemption" initially received positive reviews from critics but performed modestly at the box office upon its release. However, over time, the film gained significant acclaim and a strong following through home video releases, cable television broadcasts, and word of mouth.
The film has been praised for its powerful storytelling, memorable performances, and poignant themes. It explores the resilience of the human spirit, the transformative power of friendship, and the pursuit of hope and freedom in the face of adversity.
"The Shawshank Redemption" is often cited as one of the greatest films of all time. It has received numerous award nominations and has become a cultural phenomenon. It holds a prominent place in popular culture, with quotes, scenes, and its uplifting message resonating with audiences worldwide.
The film's success helped solidify the careers of director Frank Darabont and actors Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman. It has since been recognized as a classic and is frequently included in lists of the greatest films ever made.
"The Shawshank Redemption" stands as a testament to the enduring power of hope, friendship, and the human spirit. Its themes of resilience and redemption continue to inspire and resonate with audiences, making it a timeless and beloved cinematic masterpiece.
Movie Details
1. Stephen King's Novella: "The Shawshank Redemption" is based on Stephen King's novella titled "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption," which was part of his collection of stories called "Different Seasons." King's story provided the basis for the screenplay by Frank Darabont.
2. Box Office Performance: Despite receiving critical acclaim, "The Shawshank Redemption" had a relatively modest box office performance upon its initial release. However, it gained significant popularity and success through word of mouth, home video rentals, and subsequent television broadcasts.
3. Filming Location: The film was primarily shot on location at the Ohio State Reformatory, a former prison in Mansfield, Ohio. The prison's imposing Gothic architecture and authentic atmosphere contributed to the film's realistic portrayal of Shawshank State Penitentiary.
4. Tim Robbins' Audition: Tim Robbins was not initially considered for the role of Andy Dufresne. He auditioned for the part after it was turned down by other actors, including Tom Hanks and Kevin Costner. Robbins' performance ultimately won him the role.
5. Morgan Freeman's Casting: Although Morgan Freeman was not the first choice for the role of Red, he was director Frank Darabont's personal favorite. Freeman's narration and portrayal of Red became one of the film's most memorable elements.
6. The Mozart Scene: In one scene, Andy locks himself inside the prison's administrative office and plays an opera record over the loudspeakers, filling the entire prison with beautiful music. The music he plays is Mozart's "Sull'aria" from the opera "The Marriage of Figaro."
7. Inspirational Quotes: "The Shawshank Redemption" is known for its memorable quotes, including Andy's line, "Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies," and Red's concluding narration, "I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams."
8. Critical Acclaim: Although the film did not win any Academy Awards, it received seven nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Morgan Freeman), and Best Adapted Screenplay. Over the years, it has gained a strong reputation and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
9. IMDb Ranking: "The Shawshank Redemption" consistently ranks highly on IMDb's Top Rated Movies list, often holding the top spot. Its enduring popularity among viewers has contributed to its consistently high rating.
10. Cultural Impact: "The Shawshank Redemption" has had a significant impact on popular culture. It is frequently referenced in other films, television shows, and even music. The film's themes of hope, redemption, and resilience continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
These trivia facts provide insights into the production, performances, and lasting impact of "The Shawshank Redemption." The film's journey from a modest box office performance to a beloved classic showcases the power of storytelling and its ability to touch the hearts of audiences.