The plot, based on Stephen King's short story, of Shawshank Redemption (Frank Darabont, 1994) is superb. The many subplots are given heavy detail making the audience wonder where the story is going, intriguing the audience. At times, because of it's unpredictability, the story could seem drawn out and long to some. On the other hand, however, it's unpredictability, along with the unexpected twists, is what captivates the audience. As Desson Thomson writes (Washington Post), "it wanders down subplots at every opportunity and ignores an abundance of narrative exit points before settling on its finale."
A part form being an insight into prison life, the film explores many themes through the developing friendship of the two lead characters, Red (Morgan Freeman) and Andy (Tim Robbins), as well as the other inmates. The power of friendship, hope and above all freedom.
In what may be Freeman's greatest role, along with Robbins, the greatness of the story is supported by these terrific acting performances. The supporting roles in the film should not go unmentioned, namely the legendary James Whitmore as Brooks. Whitmore's character lets the audience feel for the old inmate who has been in the prison so long he finds himself so attached he wants to commit crime just to keep the only routine he has known. It is the believable acting performances that carry the intrigue of the plot and each subplot.
The film moves it's audience leaving an unexpected good feeling of hope after watching the prison film. The initial writing by Stephen King, the cinematography and direction by Darabont and the skillful acting has made Shawshank Redemption a talked about remarkable film. It's no wonder it is used as a high school English text.
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