Never saw the movie, but really liked the novella. I never wondered either way about Andy’s guilt because it didnt seem all that important.
Its ranking and popularity are easily justified:
[ul]
[li]It has TWO happy endings.[/li][li]It was a sleeper hit on DVD; people felt in-the-know for liking it.[/li][li]It is engaging and surprising, and the surprise feels earned.[/li][/ul]
I can’t say I know many/any folks who’d call it their favorite, but I know plenty who’d call it among their favorites – and moreso that probably any other single movie I can think of.
Shawshank would definitely be in my top 10 list of “mainstream” movies. The story is extremely well-told. It’s not a “slice of life” about midcentury prison, it’s a very traditional story about friendship, kindness, and overcoming adversity. Great visuals, solid acting, perfect mix of pathos and humor, no small dose of suspense, little surprises all along the way, and one of the most satisfying, well-constructed endings I’ve ever seen. The way Red’s story weaves into Andy’s is exceptionally well-done and still pretty unique.
I’d be hard-pressed to name a fault in the film, if you consider the intent. The only thing I think hurts it is how overexposed Morgan Freeman’s voice has become. At the time, it was perfect. Rewatching, it almost seems generic since he’s done so damn much with that voice since.