Based on a story by Stephen King, this powerful screenplay, written and directed by Frank Darabont tells the story of an up and coming banker, Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) whose adulterous wife (Renee Blaine), is murdered, along with her lover. When he is wrongly convicted, and sent to Shawshank prison in 1947, he fights to hang onto his dignity behind bars, refusing to give up, and hanging on to the hope and fact that he is innocent. He winds up gaining the respect of fellow inmates, and finds new creative ways to use his banking experience. The twists and turns of the story are unexpected, adding alot to this gripping tale. The uplifting ending crowns this fabulous film.

Tim Robbins is superb as the young banker, Andy Dufresne. As the years go by, we see him grow in strength and maturity. With a minimum of makeup, we watch Robbins grow from a callow, self absorbed young man to a solidly mature older one.

As much as any film I've ever seen, "The Shawshank Redemption" gives a realistic look at the monotony and brutality of prison life, which includes crude language and gritty situations. Sometimes shocking, at other times heartwarming, "Redemption" offers a film experience that's sure to stick with you long after the film is over.

As a long time con, Red, serving a life sentence, Morgan Freeman offers superb support. While narration is frequently used in movies to stick together a confusing plot, here, as voiced by Freeman, it offers a commentary and perspective that nicely compliment the on screen action.

My favorite scene involves a secret concerning a poster of Raquel Welch. Without giving away to much, there's more to Raquel than meets the eye.

If you like "The Shawshank Redemption," you may enjoy "Seven,"
"Cool Hand Luke," "The Green Mile," "Birdman of Alcatrz," "Forrest Gump," "The Usual Suspects," and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest."

Quote of Warden Samuel Norton: "There are two things I believe in; discipline and the Bible. Here you'll receive both. Put your trust in the Lord; your ass belongs to me. Welcome to Shawshank."