The 1994 release of the Shawshank Redemption will go down in history as one of the best films of all time. While many movies go unnoticed when they hit theaters, they continue to find their audience after the fact and resonate deep. Such is the case with The Shawshank Redemption. Frank Darabont's adaptation of Stephen King's story was not a huge hit in the box office, but is now widely considered to be among the greatest films of all time. I think one of the the great things about the film is how well the story is told and the way the characters interact with each other. You truly care for them and their plight.
Tim Robbins who plays Andy Dufresne I think said it best when he said:
"I think one of the reasons Shawshank continues to resonate is that it's one of the few movies about a loving relationship --- really a love story about two men --- that doesn't involve car chases or is a buddy comedy. It's about two people coming to know each other very well under very difficult circumstances. I also think its staying power has to do with the overall theme of the movie, which is that there is redemption in holding on to your dream and that regardless of the obstacles in your path, there is a Zihuatanejo for everyone somewhere."
I would say he is right about that. You truly care about these characters and sympathize with their situation. Even though they go through dark times with no end in sight they find the light and happiness in the end that they both desperately were seeking. A lot of people can relate to the overwhelming feeling of being in a situation of hopelessness and despair but are not able see a way out. This film truly shows that if we hold steadfast to our hopes and dreams then anything is possible... even if that means crawling through 500 yards or half a mile of foul smelling shit.
If you have not see the movie stop reading this and watch it. You will thank me later. Cheers!
