The reputation of The Shawshank Redemption was cemented when it became the #1 Movie according to IMDB, dethroning both Godfathers and staying on to keep down The Dark Knight. It is known as “your dad’s favorite movie,” and when people decide to give it a new look they’re often surprised by how effective it is and shocked that Morgan Freeman didn’t win the Oscar that year. Looking at the crew, Roger Deakins name immediately stands out. Must be nice to be making your directing debut and to photograph the picture you’re able to attract Deakins and Production Designer Terence Marsh, who won Oscars for Oliver! And Doctor Zhivago.
My initial memory of the film is connected to the fact that it was the first World Premiere I got to attend. Frank Darabont made a brief speech, and Morgan Freeman was there to wave at everyone. I remember every poster case in the theater was changed to this film and we all got free popcorn. (It’s the little things.) Being charged up by these perks, I thought the film was intelligent, but slow. Prone to meander with subplots including a protracted ending. It was my least favorite of the 5 Best Picture nominees that year, but that just shows how strong the year was. I didn’t not like the film, just took some time to appreciate it the way others did. That’s one of the interesting things about movies and why I’ll always be up to rewatch something. Opinions change as you grow and change. Experiences alter expectations, and as long as there’s hope, films will be there like a good friend ready to shake your hand.
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