The Shawshank Redemption (1994) + Extras [w/Commentary]

Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) is sentenced to two consecutive life terms in prison for the murders of his wife and her lover and is sentenced to a tough prison. However, only Andy knows he didn't commit the crimes. While there, he forms a friendship with Red (Morgan Freeman), experiences brutality of prison life, adapts, helps the warden, etc., all in 19 years.



Audio Commentary by Director Frank Darabont. Darabont talks constantly and at a pretty rapid clip, so this track is jam-packed with behind-the-scenes information.

Extras:
– Hope Springs Eternal: A Look Back at The Shawshank Redemption - this documentary features interviews with Robbins, Freeman and Darabont, as well as many others, including actors Bob Gunton and Gil Bellows. For thos who haven't seen it on the special edition DVD, the documentary lauds the film's popularity in the context of its conception, shooting and poor box office results. Recommended for fans who have not yet seen it (31:01).
– Shawshank: The Redeeming Feature - this documentary is a similar exploration of the film's influence and popularity. This BBC production offers different cast and director interviews than the Hope Springs Eternal Warner production. With a longer run time, some of the interviews deliver more detail–particularly in regard to the story and production development. Other interviews result in very much the same message (48:17).
– The Sharktank Redemption–a spoof gets some good digs in at Hollywood. Alfonso Freeman (Morgan's son) stars as an agent's assistant. The character playing Andy must serve time under the agent's jurisdiction. Pretty funny (24:46).