This is a truly great film, it really involves the viewer and tells a great story about an unjustly convicted man and his struggles in jail. It's got a lot of very moving moments and has a very human story at the centre.

I'd recommend this to anyone as a must see film, and it has enough in it to make it worth watching several times. An excellent film.

I bought this movie a while ago i believe that this is one of the greastest jail movies ever maid. Morgan freedman was phemoninal this movie was his best role... Tim ribbins did an awsome job this was his greatest role ever.. i reconmend this movie to everyone and anyone... again this movie rocks and one of the best movies ever maid....

The Shawshank Redemption (Two-Disc Special Edition)
In great condition, love the features... arrived super fast.

There's a reason for it's #1 position on IMDb. This film definitely deserves your viewing.

The Shawshank Redemption was a worth while purchase. It was a gift, and was excitedly received. The dvd arrived quickly and on time.

Great movie!!! Definitely a classic. Shipped quickly by Amazon & in perfect condition.

Every time I watch `The Shawshank Redemption' my first thought upon its closing is `how in the world did this lose the Best Picture Oscar to `Forrest Gump'?'. In all honesty there really is no comparison when you look at the two films. One is a generic feel good film wrapped in saccharine clichés and the other, this one, is a magnificent character study that slowly yet poignantly captures the very essence of life.

No comparison.

`The Shawshank Redemption' begins with banker Andy Dufresne being wrongfully accused of murdering his wife and her lover. He is sentenced to two life sentences (due to his cold demeanor) to be served at Shawshank correctional institution. He is immediately pegged as a weakling, not build for survival within the prison walls, but Andy soon turns heads as he proves those presumptions false. Not only is he built for survival, but his presence ultimately helps the other inmates survive as well. The film focuses on Andy and fellow inmate Red as they build a friendship that will last them forever, each of them learning from and teaching each other about life and what you make of it. Red has been in prison a time now and has a lot to teach Andy about life within the prison walls, but in the end it is Andy's lessons of hope that bring a new light to Red's eyes.

When watching `The Shawshank Redemption' I am constantly in awe at its power. There is not a single aspect of this film that feels off kilter or missing; in fact I cannot think of a single flaw to write about. It's hard when a film is this astonishing, for how can you really critique it, and no one wants to read redundant praising that lasts paragraph after paragraph.

I will praise it though, and hopefully these praises don't find themselves repetitious.

The first major selling point to this film is the script, which beautifully captures the genuine emotional state of the men involved. You have the fear and hopelessness that corrupts the minds of the newly incarcerated, as well as the comfortable contentment that glosses over those fears as you adjust to life on the inside. You have the greed and selfishness that infiltrates the eyes of those with power, and the disgust and resentment that permeates the air. What I think is brought out to perfection is the displacement that shatters the lives of those `lifers' who find themselves out on parole, living amidst the rest of the world and unable to adjust to this freedom that feels to foreign to them. Every single emotion bubbles to the surface and captivates the audience.

Seriously people; `Forrest Gump'?

From a technical standpoint, this film is superb. The camera angles and close framed cinematography is stunning and helps capture each of the emotions the script so wonderfully fleshes out. You audience can feel the restraint and claustrophobia that the characters feel emotionally, expounding upon the already deeply rooted emotional resonance. The score, the lighting, the mood, the direction; everything helps elevate the film and create a magnificent cinematic experience.

And then, there is the acting.

Much praise has been given to Morgan Freeman for his powerful and moving portrayal of Red, but one cannot single out Freeman without mentioning Tim Robbins who serves as the emotional and moral clutch of the whole film. Without his riveting performance the film would have failed to amount to all that it has become. As Andy, Robbins brilliantly sifts through his emotional response to his surroundings, capturing his misery but never losing his hope, even when all feels lost. Freeman is the perfect compliment to Robbins, cycling though Red's loyalty and admiration as well as his experienced emotional callousness. They are the perfect pair and in all honestly should have BOTH been nominated at the Academy Awards.

The long list of supporting players is also exceptional, from Clancy Brown's diabolical Captain Hadley to the slew of inmates that inhabit Shawshank. William Sadler is memorable as Heywood, and James Whitmore is devastatingly real as Brooks. His sub-plot regarding his release is one of the most resounding moments in the film. Gil Bellows has a nice turn as Tommy, a young spunky rookie who makes an impact on the lives of Andy and Red; but when we are speaking of supporting players the one that stands out the most is none other than Bob Gunton. His portrayal of the sinister Warden Norton is flawless. He creeps up on you slowly, tearing at your nerves, and when he finally comes out and nails Andy with the bluntest of threats you are utterly blown away.

In the end I am ashamed that the Academy went for generic and happy over meaningful and moving. `The Shawshank Redemption' is not only the greatest film of 1994, but it is possibly one of the greatest films ever made. There is so much to be learned about ourselves and others, so much which is lurking within every crevasse of Shawshank that we cannot just see this film once but are forced to witness its power over and over again.

In the end `The Shawshank Redemption' is about just that; redemption. One is uplifted upon the closing frames, the fact that hope prevails further cemented into their souls. `The Shawshank Redemption' is the perfect example of a perfectly balanced film, one that slowly yet masterfully weaves a tail of humanity, starting with emotional death and ending with an abundance of life.

I couldn't believe there weren't more reviews on this. This is hands down one of the top movies of all time. If you haven't seen it yet you are truly missing out. Go now to the video store and rent it.

This movie is a classic. The special edition gives interviews with the actors and little known information about the making of the screen-play and film.

Probably one of the top 30 greatest films of all time. Stephen King made one little error though. Andy (Tim Robbins), a smart banker, would not have spoken to the warden (who couldn't do anything legally) about his newly discovered witness to prove that he is innocent. Andy would have gone straight to his lawyer who could have re-opened the case.

What can I say, besides, one word MORGAN FREEMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He is the worlds greatest actor!!!. Tim Robbins, is the 2nd best actor in the movie. They both deliver a great movie!!!!

I only recently watched this for the first time. I know people and critics rave about it constantly, and I was curious to see if all that praise was justified. Well, I saw it and yes, its an extremeely good film. The acting is flawless, the script hole-free and really keeps you interested throughout the whole film. The story is a simple, but engaging one and I really could find no fault with it whatsoever. That said, I'm not sure if I would call this the greatest film ever, or even in the top three, but its certainly up there. I was debating whether to give it 4 stars or 5. While I loved the film, I didn't REALLY love it, but for such a flawless film, I finally settled on the 5 star rating, which is something I don't do that often. If there is anyone who has not seen this yet(like me up til a few days ago) I would definately recommend you watch this.

MASTERPIECE - HOPE FRIENDSHIP GOOD and EVIL

I do not review movies but I felt like I had to for Shawshank. This is the best movie ever made. Outstanding story which have elements of hope friendship and love. If you are ever down watch this. By the end you will better.

Director Darabont did this without almost any CGI that we come to expect from movies these days. He gives us this by giving strong characters and excellent story which is hard to come by these days.

Newman's soudtrack goes hand in hand. Without it it could not have been a strong as it is.

People will remember Shawshank 20 years from now but will not the ones that got the awards during its run. In my opinion Shawshank was not awarded by the Academy like it should have been.

It isn't always easy to find the words to describe a great film. It is just that every ten years or so there is a film that lifts me up and forces me to take a deeper look at some facet of my life, in this case an understanding of value for my own personal freedom. The Shawshank Redemption feels like a deeply personal film for me. It gets under my skin and by its conclusion I want to well up like a big baby no matter how many times I've seen it. I know that other people feel the same way I do about this film but I never approach them to ask why and I only sometimes decide to express a feeling like that in writing, like I am now. The Shawshank Redemption is one of those rare films that reflects something real enough that I can almost empathize with its characters for two hours, at least enough that I find a new respect for the life I have. After all, no murderer is only that. He or she is or was a son or daughter to someone; maybe a wife, a husband, a lover, or a best friend to others. That doesn't make anyone's crimes more or less forgivable, it just provides more than a one-dimensional perspective on such profound character dynamics. Redemption is a process by which the redeemed find enough comfort in whatever they have or whatever they've done that they can keep going again. But this is not just a film about some men gaining atonement for their guilt. It is far more than that; it is about survival and hope and I always feel a little sense of salvation myself every single time I watch it.

Directed by frequent Stephen King novel interpreter and outstanding screenwriter Frank Darabont (The Green Mile, The Mist), The Shawshank Redemption is a film that takes place in the late 1940s at Shawshank Prison in Maine. It follows two prisoners; Ellis Boyd Redding or "Red" (Morgan Freeman), who has long known of the accountability he has for his crimes and Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a quirky banker serving two consecutive life sentences for the murder of his wife and another man, crimes he did not commit. Andy is easy to root for as both an innocent man and a fish out of water. His ethics, his honesty, and his moral character are crucial elements to a story taking place in a world of such corruption and guilt. It is beautiful to watch and Robbins is so compelling. Freeman truly becomes the redeemed and in the end he can only find his sense of hope and freedom in the ways that an innocent man, perhaps unwittingly, inspired him.

This was actually not a huge hit in theaters and I didn't even see it until about three or four years after its initial release in 1994. It was nominated for seven Oscars but was overlooked due to Forrest Gump, a film I can do without. All of sudden it seems everyone is coming out of the woodwork to hail the Shawshank Redemption as one of the greatest films of all time. It is hard to see any film from the last twenty years or so on lists next to Citizen Kane or The Godfather, but I can't say it troubles me to see this particular film get so much credit. The movie is emotionally powerful enough that it almost feels like a relative or an old familiar friend up there getting a round of applause and all the credit in the world. I suppose I never expected anything less.

Very fantastique story .
It was with a great pleasure than I saw this movie.
And the most for me, there are french language and in my country, this DVD doesn't exist.
Donc pour ceux que cela interesse, le DVD est en français (non signalé lors de l'achat)il faut juste dézonner son lecteur pour le voir en france

After so many positive reviews already written, some personal observations.In the first place one does not readily identify Shawshank with the state of Maine. Evidently, author King did.Perhaps his mind works better in his home state. Freeman and Robbins finally get out; the revenge factor against a corrupt establishment is the key theme to the movie. But, what of those who never get out? Next, the realism of the movie is abeted by its brutality scenes, pictures of which one would rather deny. One would also assume in 2008, the likelihood of such a scheme succeeeding would be next to impossible.Yet, reports of 3 million incarcerations at present in the USA makes one wonder. Finally, the movie is totally engrossing, leading to multiple viewings. The reason for this,I suspect,is probably different for every individual. Please take the time to mull over your reasoning. Please take time to mull over the "system".

Movie was in brand new condition just as expected!! Thanks so much for good quality products!

Andy tunnled out of prison. without the guards findinding out how, it had to to wirh a rockhammer.

If you love this movie as I do. Its nice to own and add to my
collection to view whenever I want. Great movie but it.

A classic film, so I will not review it here. If you haven't seen it, see it.

I bought this DVD mainly for the special features, which are awesome. For anyone who liked the film, the special features are well worth the price.

I ordered this as a Christmas Gift and it arrived very fast...I will order again

In my Netflix account, it says that I have rated over 2000 films. I guess I have watched a lot of films in my life. I rarely ever write a review about a movie; I simply don't have the time. But, when someone asks me what I consider the best movie of all time, I tell them its The Shawshank Redemption. I have not met a person yet who disliked this movie. Looking at the Amazon ratings, I would say that my real-life findings match the ratings on here.

Back in 1993 or '94 when this movie came out , a very good friend of mine told me I NEEDED to see it. At that time he was one of the few people who had ever seen the movie (as it was not a hit in theatrical release),

I waited to see it until it came out on VHS. I have loved it ever since. Every time I watch the movie it amazes me.

The true beauty of the story lies in the fact that even in a place of gloom and despair people can change their lives. Yes Andy Dufrene escapes but the true redemption lies in Red!! He changes because of his relationship with Andy. Even though Andy was innocent and obviously did not deserve to be or want to be in prison, without him going Red's life may never have changed!

Great movie, great message, GREAT actors! One of the best ever!

A great movie. A complete movie. Prehaps the only change that could of been made is to change the ending. Its a little "too happy". I think the movie could of ended with Red in the bus as its goes over the hill and you are left to wonder if he ever gets to see his good friend at the beach in Mexico.

If you haven't seen this movie already, you are in for a treat! Excellent acting, great story and well-directed: The Shawshank Redemption has it all. Get ready for a truly great film.

Such a good movie. The acting is good, the lines are good, the plot thickens. and heck, it is Morgan Freeman. He's awesome!

Note: Some immature Mormon has been slamming my reviews because I wrote some negative reviews of books attempting to defend the Book of Mormon.

So your "helpful" votes are greatly appreciated. A short review is not necessarily a bad review if it leads you to a great movie. I've just noted the general theme. Thanks

I hesitated to see this movie because I don't care for prison shows, but at last I rented it. Wow, what a powerful drama. It grabbed me and wouldn't let go. With terrific acting and a compelling plot, you are caught up in the life of an innocent man accused of murder and sent to the notorious "Shawshank" prison in Maine.

This is the kind of movie that you will walk away from feeling inspired about the determination of human beings not only to survive but to triumph.

Read my short review, then see the movie. Save the longer reviews until after. I hope I've written enough to plant the hook. Like me, you will wonder why you hesitated on this movie.

This is my all time frav movie. I own it on vhs, dvd, se dvd,and will buy it on blu-ray when it comes out. if you have never seen it befor buy it, or rent it today. this movie is a 10. Frank Darabont directed this film that was based on a short storie by Steven King.

This is by far one of the best films of the decade. Morgan Freeman delivers a superb narrative and the picture excels in many aspects of film making. Steeped in symbolism, the film leaves us with plenty of memorable quotes.

As Andy plays the letter duet from The Marriage of Figaro, Red narrates:

"I have no idea to this day what those two Italian ladies were singing about. Truth is, I don't want to know. Some things are better left unsaid. I'd like to think they were singing about something so beautiful, it can't be expressed in words, and it makes your heart ache because of it. I tell you, those voices soared higher and farther than anybody in a grey place dares to dream. It was as if some beautiful bird had flapped into our drab little cage and made these walls dissolve away, and for the briefest of moments, every last man in Shawshank felt free."

When this movie came out in 1994, I never heard of the movie.
It wasn't till 2000-2001 when me and ex-wife bought the movie.
She said it was one of her favorite movie, so as a loving husband I
Bought it for her not knowing anything about it.
It wasn't long after we bought it that this movie became one of my all time favorite movies.
Even though me & my ex aren't together anymore I still watch this movie from time to time.
My rating for this movie is a 10 from 1to10!!

There aren't many film's that are better than the book (or short story...or novella) that they are based on, but The Shawshank Redemption is absolutely one that could actually be better than it's pulp predecessor.

Back in 1982 Stephen King released a compilation of novellas under the title Different Seasons Different Seasons (Signet). And two of the best King movie adaptations EVER came out of that book: Stand By Me in 1986 Stand By Me (Special Edition) and The Shawshank Redemption in 1994.

But what inspired me today to write a review about a 13 year old movie? Well...three things actually:

1) I saw a customer review on Amazon today calling the 2006 video game adaptation-film Silent Hill Silent Hill "visionary" and ranking it 5 stars. I tried to think of movies that were 5 star movies in my book; there aren't many (relatively), and Silent Hill is far from 5 stars in my book. So, I was inspired to find a movie to write about that truly made the cut.

2) I wrote a review today for the 2007 film adaptation of King's short story 1408 (see 1408 (Two-Disc Collector's Edition) & Everything's Eventual : 14 Dark Tales ). But 1408 was also far from 5 stars in my book, so I was looking for redemption in the way of something better to write about.

3) And finally, I saw an ad today for the late 2007 release of The Mist, another film adaptation of a King short story this time from 1985's Skeleton Crew Skeleton Crew (Signet). But what's really interesting is that the director of The Mist is the same guy that directed The Shawshank Redemption...Frank Darabont...so my expectations for The Mist are very high! (Darabont also directed King's The Green Mile The Green Mile (Two-Disc Special Edition).)

So back to Shawshank. This movie was terrific...one of the top 5 I've ever seen. It kept all of the most impressionable book scenes entirely intact. And keep in mind that this was a Stephen King novella, so there's some pretty interesting stuff (you can count on King to wow you with precise tales that include plenty of thrills...and when he doesn't thrill you he goes for the gross-out!).

Importantly, Shawshank really captured the bonds of friendship so perfectly created in King's novella. The Shawshank Redemption was a moving, realistic portrayal of a day in the prison-life of a wrongly convicted man; the movie really is the novella come to life.

Kudos to Tim Robbins & Morgan Freeman for exact incarnations of the characters in King's story; kudos to Darabont for his direction; and kudos to all for putting their hearts into the roles to create a show that not only entertains, but evokes emotional reminisces in viewers that grew up in a very different world from today.

The Shawshank Redemption is truly worthy of it's 5 stars here at Amazon, and it should be added to your collection.

Every so often comes a movie that just works on all levels. The Shawshank redemption is one of these movies - deservedly ranking right up there with The Godfather, Gone with the Wind, Casablanca, The Purple Rose of Cairo, Citizen Kane, etc.

The story, as everyone knows, is based on a Stephen King novella (the same collection of stories that brought "Stand By Me" to the world). While Steven King is known mostly for his gore and horror stories, these are his two best works ever.

Although Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins) is the hero and main character in the story, Red (Morgan Freeman) really steals the show. What an incredible performance! The rest of the cast is excellent of course.

One of the true measures of a movie is how it looks ten years after it's released. The Shawshank Redemption has not dated one second - it's as fresh and enjoyable to watch as the day it came out of the edit suite!

excellent movie! It is a great movie and should be an Oscar winner in any year except the one with Forest Gump. It includes no woman---the story between only men. It's not only about escape from the prison, but about human life in all kinds of conditions.

this is one of those films where, unless you know the story, you have no idea where it is going. the redemption of these two men (robbins and freeman)is basically the redemption of innocent mankind. and their performances are a true testament to their art. i have watched this film many times over and continue to be impressed by the amazing nuances and performances. i would recommend this film to anyone who loves film.

An extremely well crafted movie with all kinds of life lessons. The story of an accussed man and his plight through Shawshank prison hits deep. Morgan Freeman is at his pinacle with thought provoking acting while Tim Robbins(hate his personal politics) draws out lonely, innocencent yearnings in every way. Its actually bordering on a masterpiece of filmwork. It would be difficult to walk away from watching this film in its entirety not feeling that you've learned something big. As of this date the promised hd version is yet to be seen. Although the dank prison surroundings do not seem to demand a definitive hd transfer, clarity of viewing can only increase the already cutting realism. I look foward to the blissful moments that give hope and make you watch - in high definition. I can only be forced to ask, whats the hold up? Sign up for the notification of release, you'll feel better. Peace.