The Shawshank Redemption

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The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 drama film about hope, friendship, and redemption in the face of injustice. Based on Stephen King's novella, it tells the story of Andy Dufresne's life in Shawshank State Penitentiary.

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

The Shawshank Redemption

Format

film

Release Year

1994

Current Status

Completed film

Country of Origin

United States

Original Work

film

Genre

drama, hope, friendship, redemption, prison, classic, Stephen King, injustice, perseverance

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape The Shawshank Redemption.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

Set in Shawshank State Penitentiary (1947-1967), a grim and oppressive institution governed by corruption and brutality. The prison serves as a microcosm of society where time stands still, yet the human spirit's resilience shines through small acts of rebellion and friendship.

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

Hope vs. Despair, Institutionalization, The Power of Friendship, Redemption, Integrity, Freedom.

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing The Shawshank Redemption's global influence.

Creation Background

Frank Darabont's passion project to adapt Stephen King's powerful novella

Cultural Impact

Became a symbol of hope and perseverance, influenced prison reform discussions

Legacy

Considered one of the greatest films ever made, enduring message of hope

Major Milestones

1982: Stephen King publishes the novella,1987: Frank Darabont acquires film rights,1993: Film production begins,1994: Theatrical release,1995: Home video success begins,1998: Selected for National Film Registry

Awards

7 Academy Award nominations,AFI's top 100 films,National Film Registry

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from The Shawshank Redemption.

Andy Dufresne

“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.”

A banker wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and her lover, who maintains hope and dignity in prisonView Profile

Ellis Boyd 'Red' Redding

“I find I'm so excited, I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head.”

A long-term inmate who becomes Andy's closest friend and the film's narratorView Profile

Explore all The Shawshank Redemption characters

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Shawshank Redemption based on a true story?▼

No, it is based on Stephen King's novella 'Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption', though it explores realistic themes of prison life.

How long was Andy Dufresne in prison?▼

Andy spent 19 years in Shawshank State Penitentiary before his escape in 1966.

What is the significance of the poster in Andy's cell?▼

The posters (Rita Hayworth, Marilyn Monroe, Raquel Welch) cover the tunnel Andy digs over 19 years, symbolizing his hidden hope and eventual freedom.

Why is the film titled 'The Shawshank Redemption'?▼

It refers to Andy's redemption of his own soul and dignity, as well as the redemption he brings to Red and other inmates through hope.

Did the film win any Oscars?▼

It was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor, but did not win any, losing out largely to 'Forrest Gump'.

What does 'institutionalized' mean in the movie?▼

It refers to becoming so dependent on prison life and routine that one cannot function or survive in the outside world, as seen with Brooks.

Where was the movie filmed?▼

It was filmed primarily at the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio, which is now a popular tourist attraction.

What is Zihuatanejo?▼

Zihuatanejo is a coastal town in Mexico where Andy dreams of living, representing a paradise with 'no memory' where he and Red can be free.

Who played Andy and Red?▼

Andy Dufresne was played by Tim Robbins, and Ellis Boyd 'Red' Redding was played by Morgan Freeman.

Why is the film considered a classic today?▼

Despite a modest box office release, it gained immense popularity via home video and TV for its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and enduring message of hope.

Official & Related Links

Find official resources and trusted references to learn more.

Official Website

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@SonyPictures

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Youtube

Sony Pictures Entertainment

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