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The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. It follows banker Andy Dufresne, who is sent to prison for a murder he says he did not commit, and his friendship with fellow inmate Ellis “Red” Redding. The film is known for its themes of hope, friendship, and perseverance.

Plot

The film follows Andy Dufresne after he is convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank State Prison. Over time, he befriends Red and uses his skills to improve life in the prison while planning an escape.

Cast

The main cast includes Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne and Morgan Freeman as Ellis “Red” Redding. Bob Gunton plays Warden Samuel Norton, with additional roles by William Sadler, Clancy Brown, and others.

Production

The film was directed by Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King’s novella. Its production included location shooting in Ohio, with the Ohio State Reformatory serving as the prison exterior and interior setting for many scenes.

Reception and legacy

Although it was not a major box-office hit on release, the film later gained wide critical and audience acclaim. It is now frequently listed among the most popular and highly regarded films of all time.

Key facts

  • The film is adapted from Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.
  • The story centers on Andy Dufresne, a banker imprisoned for the murder of his wife and her lover.
  • Andy forms a lasting friendship with Ellis “Red” Redding while serving his sentence.
  • The film explores hope, institutionalization, friendship, and redemption.
  • It was directed by Frank Darabont and stars Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Shawshank Redemption about?
It is about Andy Dufresne, a banker who is sent to prison for a murder he says he did not commit, and his friendship with fellow inmate Red as he seeks hope and freedom.
Who is in the cast of The Shawshank Redemption?
The cast includes Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler, Clancy Brown, Gil Bellows, and James Whitmore.
Is The Shawshank Redemption based on a true story?
No. It is based on Stephen King’s fictional novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, not a true story.
How long is The Shawshank Redemption?
The film’s runtime is 142 minutes.
Where was The Shawshank Redemption filmed?
It was filmed mainly in and around Mansfield, Ohio, including the Ohio State Reformatory, with additional Ohio locations used for other scenes.
Why is The Shawshank Redemption so popular?
It is widely praised for its performances, emotional ending, and themes of hope, resilience, friendship, and redemption, which have given it lasting audience appeal.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shawshank_Redemption
    Supports: Plot, principal cast, runtime, production details, and adaptation from Stephen King novella.
  2. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111161/
    Supports: Plot overview, cast, runtime, and reception themes.
  3. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rita_Hayworth_and_Shawshank_Redemption
    Supports: Source novella, publication context, and relation to the film.