When was the first time you watched the movie “The Shawshank Redemption”? Did it leave the same impression on you the last time you watched it? I hope it didn’t.
I believe that the lessons and the way the characters resonate with you can change over time. The emotional connections you have with the characters, as well as the hopes, meanings, and perceptions you gain, evolve as you go through different phases of your life. Right?
That’s the magic this movie holds! A true masterpiece! This uplifting tale of hope, friendship, and dreams is based on Stephen King’s novella “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption,” and it was directed by Frank Darabont. It is perfect in every way— from the cast and acting to the screenplay and cinematography.
HOW IT RANKS AT THE TOP OF THE IMDB LIST:
Since 1990, there has been an average of 2,557 movies made every year, according to IMDb. Yet, “Shawshank Redemption” manages to hold a top position with its remarkable score of 9.3. How does it do this? Let’s explore briefly.
We know that at the time of its release in 1994, the movie was considered a failure. However, a true gem always finds its value and is celebrated by those who recognize its worth. That’s why it remains one of the most beloved films of all time and a timeless classic!
A movie’s success often hinges on how well its characters connect with audiences and how deeply it moves them emotionally. “Shawshank Redemption” achieves this throughout its narrative with its brilliant character arcs.
How We Connect with the Characters:
In a way, we all embody Andy Dufresne, Ellis Boyd “Red” , Brooks Hatlen, and Tommy Williams during different phases of our lives.
At times, we face difficulties, yet we need determination, focus, intelligence, and most importantly, hope to achieve our goals. Andy symbolizes hope. He teaches us about hope throughout the movie, and we see ourselves in him during his disappointments. We relate to him when he speaks of hope and freedom, and we share our sorrows, joys, and struggles with him.
However, we cannot stay motivated and hopeful all the time. Although Red is a con in prison who has connections to obtain supplies from outside, he believes that “hope is a dangerous thing.” He feels lost about what to do if he ever gets out of prison, much like many of us after facing rejection.
Then there’s Brooks Hatlen, a librarian who spends 50 years in prison and looks for Jake (a crow) after his release. He represents those who struggle to adapt to changes and reality, often clinging to their comfort zones. He tries hard to adjust but fails miserably, serving as a lesson for us all.
Tommy Williams is a charming, funny, and unpredictable character who wants to learn from Andy. He brings a positive vibe but often finds himself in danger due to his ignorance. He resembles many of us at various points in our lives.
On the other hand, characters like Officers Hadley and Norton, the selfish authority figures, teach us how not to behave.
More importantly, the world around us resembles a “mini” Shawshank prison, filled with numerous opportunities to learn, alongside good friends like Red and Heywood, as well as toxic figures like Mr. Norton and Hadley. Ultimately, it is our choice to seek out our very own Zihuatanejo, a place free of painful memories where we can spend our lives with good friends.
SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION TEACHES HOPE: THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME
Every conversation and emotional exchange in this film highlights its brilliance, especially when Andy and Red discuss hope.
Red generally believes that hope can drive a man insane. In contrast, Andy thinks, “Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of all things.” He asserts, “It comes down to a simple choice: get busy living or get busy dying.” Perhaps this is the lesson Brooks needs to embrace upon leaving prison.
Brooks fears the bustling cars around him, experiences loneliness, and ultimately feels lost and in despair. The advice that reaches Red eventually fails to impact Brooks. However, all the characters illustrate that hope is our greatest asset in life—the greatest of all time.
Through the lives of Andy, Red, Brooks, Tommy, and Norton, this movie conveys profound messages and choices. It teaches us about hope, life, motivation, and how to “get busy living.” That’s why “The Shawshank Redemption” remains close to the hearts of millions and will forever be celebrated as the symbol of hope.
