I thought I'd spend the rest of this week outlining films I consider great, and possibly the reasons why. If you've not seen them I can promise you will not be disappointed.
As a graphic novelist I definitely lean towards great dialogue or cinematography, or in some cases both. Sometimes I just like a good movie too.
THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION
1994 Directed by Frank Darabont Released by Castle Rock
Written by Stephen King and Darabont
"Get busy living or get busy dyin'" -- if you're a fan of Stephen King you will recognize his writing style instantly. King is often not given enough credit as a serious writer, but I have no doubt his name will be spoken along with Mark Twain's in generations to come.
Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) is imprisoned for murdering his wife and her lover. He tries to find decency among the hell that is a Maine Federal Prison and along the way changes the lives of everyone he touches, while making a true friend in the form of convicted murderer, and the only truly guilty man at Shawshank Red Redding (Morgan Freeman).
As a story teller this is a brilliantly written and paced film which will horrify, entertain and inspire you. A perfect movie to watch if you're going through a difficult time in your life. Andy made a difference dealt a pure hand of wrong and so can you.
King has to put Andy through some of the worst possible situations so that we can appreciate the experiences he had to face.
The music score is equally brilliant.
Five stars.
