'Masterpiece' film hailed 'greatest of all time' returns to screens after three decades

Daily Mirror

9 hours ago

A 90s classic that was once dubbed the "greatest movie of all time" is now making its way back to screens - and fans can't wait
90s Hollywood"masterpiece" The Shawshank Redemption was once hailed as the "greatest movie of all time" and fans will be pleased to learn is back in the limelight after landing on streaming service Peacock.
‌
The film that stars Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins, has made a triumphant return to screens nearly three decades after its initial release, with fans hailing it as a masterpiece once more.
‌
Despite being a box office disappointment in 1994, earning just $16 million against a $25 million budget, the prison drama has since become a cult favourite and now proudly sits at the top of IMDb's Top 250 list with an impressive 9.3 rating. This prestigious list includes cinematic gems like The Godfather Part II, The Dark Knight, and 12 Angry Men, but Shawshank has claimed the throne. The plot centres around Andy Dufresne, a mild-mannered banker wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and her lover.
‌
Sentenced to life in the harsh Shawshank State Penitentiary, Andy battles corruption, forms a profound friendship with fellow inmate Red, and secretly plans his escape.
Over two decades, Andy must navigate the treacherous waters of prison politics, endure brutal abuse, and assist the warden in money laundering - all while covertly chiselling a hole in his cell wall with a rock hammer, reports the Express.
His determination culminates in a dramatic twist that continues to stun first-time viewers. Despite receiving seven Oscar nominations, the film left the 1995 Academy Awards empty-handed. However, the voice of the fans has proven louder than any critic.
Despite flopping initially at the box office, the movie gained traction through positive word-of-mouth and frequent television broadcasts.
‌
It transformed into a sleeper success, with reviewers subsequently praising it as amongst the most re-watchable pictures ever created. Its premier position on IMDb has stayed practically uncontested for more than twenty years.
On Rotten Tomatoes, it achieves 89% on the Tomatometer and an almost flawless 98% audience rating. Viewer acclaim has been pouring in online since the picture returned to the streaming platform once more.
‌
One admirer penned: "One of the best movie I've ever seen. The movie is soooooooooooooo good. Definitely a must watch." Another contributed: "The Shawshank Redemption is one of those rare movies that just never loses its impact, no matter how many times you watch it.
"It's not flashy or packed with action, but it hits on such a deep emotional level that you can't help but be moved." A third proclaimed: "Absolute masterpiece. Perfect in every way."
And one spectator simply remarked: "I am watched it three times and ready to see it again. So many twists and turns and a surprising ending. Great acting by all"
The picture's enduring appeal is frequently attributed to its compelling performances, particularly Morgan's legendary voice-over, which one enthusiast claimed "adds so "much soul to the story."
Featuring Clancy Brown, Bob Gunton, William Sadler, Robbins and Freeman, The Shawshank Redemption has evolved into an enduring story of hope, justice, and survival.
You can watch The Shawshank Redemption on the streaming platform Peacock.