wni 203199:

The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Can it be over 15 years ago that this timeless masterpiece stunned audiences with its uncommon mix of subtle direction and incredible script writing. No wonder that this film is currently #1 on the IMDB top 250 list. Every actor excels in his role with a number of experienced actors absolutely convincing the audience that they are in Shawshank Prison. Everything conveys the grey day to day existence of a prisoner as well as the debilitating nature of such incarceration. In my opinion the unlikely friendship of Andy and Red stands out as the best in film as it seamlessly oversteps the artificial boundaries of race and age to buoy two men in a horrible situation. This is review #495 and I will continue to pick my five favorite films to review as I close in on 500 reviews. A quick note to NF: Perhaps you should value your reviewers more. If you continue shutting down the friends function another rental service will replace you. Shape up or go the way of dinosaurs. Sorry for the ad. This film can be nothing less than 5 stars. (3/30/10).

Chuckie13:

One of the better movies that has been made. Not only is the story and acting good, but all the pieces just come together to make this film great. The charactors are very well developed, and because of this you are exposed to different emotions as you watch the film. The story itself is great, there are several storylines that branch out but it all comes together. This is a great movie to sit down and watch, and even though it is lengthy, you will be satisfied at the end.

mabell3368:

The most inspiring paean to the human spirit that has ever been filmed. Is that too over the top? Maybe, but I'll stand by that statement. This viewer waited fifteen years to watch it and when it was over had no answer when his wife asked why we had waited so long. My thanks to my friend, Dr Morbius' Id, who challenged me to watch this, or we might still be wondering what all the fuss was about! Incredible acting job turned in by all, but special mention to Tim Robbins, who brought the character of Andy Dufresne to life, and the always excellent Morgan Freeman as Red. Few films have the power to affect as much as this one did. Who knew that Stephen King (one of my least favorite authors) could write something like this?

Raedemocrat2005:

It never fails. No matter how many times I watch this movie, I am still completely glued to my tv screen until it is over. Despite some of the negative commentary of this movie being slow, I rather disagree. I find this movie to be mildly paced, and quick to grab you attention. I think that this movie was very well directed, and there are great actors involved. I particularly love the narration by Mr. Freeman himself. This will remain a great classic for future generations to enjoy!

npo 1687199:

This film is Brilliant!, the best movie i have ever seen. Truely amazing cast, awesome story, awesome script, if you have not watched this movie.Do not consider yourself a movie lover. so sit, watch and be amazed.if only there were 10 stars.

RT 150394:

This movie only did so-so at the box office. When I tell people to watch it they are generally unenthusiastic because of the odd title or the fact that it takes place in prison. Then they sit down and watch it. As the story unfolds and the ending builds to one of the most satisfying conclusions of all time they sit there stunned or with tears in their eyes. Andy Dufresne, a man innocent of the crime he is convicted of (killing his wife and her lover) but guilty in other ways. At one point he says to Freeman "I killed her Red, but not with a gun" which makes us confront the ways we affect people through our actions or inactions. Now Andy must figure out who he truly is stripped of his prestigious societal labels. Like a tide, he either elevates those around him or, as in the case of the crooked warden and prison guard, drowns those who refuse to be lifted. One man finally takes a chance because of Andy to "get busy living". A triumph of the human spirit, we cheer for Andy and Red at the end.

fwp 1043194:

Truly, one of the finest motion pictures since director's started yelling, "Action!" Frank Darabont's adaptation of the King story is brilliant. This movie should be held up as an example of how to do it without flash, an out-of-control special effects budget, or a Who's-Who laundry list of token superstars. Required viewing, as far as I'm concerned.

GoFenris:

Do you remember which film won Best Picture at the Academy Awards in 1994? I'll bet when you research it you remember this one more so! Academy be d#mned! This is the best film from that year.

Jeremy K.:

How to review what happens to probably be the greatest movie out there. From beginning to end not only do you connect to these characters, who are in prison, but somehow you seem to be doing time with them. You learn from them, you reflect with them. It's amazing how much you can learn from this great movie. Weird but simply amazing. One thing I regret, which is probably caused by my young age, is that the movie never appealed to me. Maybe the title, I am not sure, but boy was I wrong. I am going to buy this one! No way I am not! Simply awesome.

Xian74:

Im sure there are no words that I could write that havent already been said. I will ask this. Does Morgan Freeman just make every movie hes in that much better?? This is an incredible story. Definitely a movie I can watch repeatedly and despite its length, never get tired of.

BunnyKing:

Now here's a great film! You really feel the time go by and you're always rooting for the characters. This is a must see film and very well executed. Highly recommended!

Forrest (Gump):

Loved this work, more so than the original Stephen King short story on which it is based. Morgan Freeman is THE MAN. Rock solid actor of the highest caliber. Teamed with Tim Robbins, these two work movie magic, bubbling up deep emotions in me every single time I watch this film. If you don't get goosebumps or shed a tear at least once watching this, you are either under the age of 15, an accountant, or have no soul. Enjoy this with a loved one, and NO distractions of any kind.

JEDIPUNK:

Simply the best movie ever made. The story follows the undying spirit of Andy who is incarcerated after being convicted of murdering his wife. Very true to the Stephen King novel, but less graphic.

TS 1414132:

Outstanding movie. I thought about giving it five stars, but I didn't because I thought it was a little too long. They could have easily cut 20 to 30 minutes out of the film. But it was still excellent. Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman and Bob Gunton all gave Oscar-caliber performances. Stephen King had a great story, and Frank Darabont did an excellent job of adapting it to the Silver Screen (as well as directing the film).

batman1784:

Very good movie. This ia about the Shawshenk Prison in the early 1940's. When Tim Robbins is framed for murder, he is sent to Shawshenk where everyone in there is on life sentences. When he meets the well known immate "Red" they become friends. Tim is serving a life sentence and will do anything to make his stay compfortable. When the warden gives him the job of an accountent he earns a lot of respect from everyone in prison. But his ultimate goal is to get out. Watch and see for yourself, but I really liked this. Very touching.

ForeignMovies:

There are certain movies that I enjoyed very much and will remember for a long time. This movie is one of them.

Slappy:

Man, peoples' memories are really short, aren't they? Read the original short story, "Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption", which basically focused on a unique escape plan, using the poster to cover the escape hole, and then watch "Escape from Alcatraz." My God, the screenwriter has litterally committed a crime! This is "Escape" Lite! A wishy washy feel good piece of pap that blatantly rips off another superiour film.