Review of The Shawshank Redemption (1994) by Joe C — 04 Jan 2015

Any "best films" list worth any credit has Shawshank placed at least in spitting distance of #1. And it's easy to see why it's a perennial favorite for appreciators of film everywhere; It's focus on the human spirit, fervent writing, incredible acting and Morgan Freeman's voice has made it a timeless film that still maintains its resounding emotional throb and range.

Difficult to watch at times, but never feeling manipulated, Shawshank's script (adapted from splicing two Steven King short-stories) is as deep and um, redemptive as they come. Agile but calm, absorbing but incisive, Shawshank is Reassuring proof that lacking swift pacing and shallow action are no barriers to everlasting brilliance.

It's masterpiece status may have ironically made it a bit of an enigma, but this film is bulletproof to any kind of criticism.