The Shawshank Redemption

"In the lead roles, both Robbins and Freeman are outstanding..."

"If the film is perhaps a little slow in its middle passages, maybe that is part of the idea... to give us a sense of the leaden passage of time, before the glory of the final redemption."

"As preposterous as it is appealing..."

"The story... becomes incarcerated in its own labyrinthine sentimentality."

"Freeman, in particular, is exceptional."

"Without a single riot scene or horrific effect, it tells a slow, gentle story of camaraderie and growth..."

"It's the no-bull performances that hold back the flood of banalities."

"It's a simple story elegantly, cleverly told, not to mention expertly acted."

"If you don't love Shawshank, chances are you're beyond redemption."

"Cinematic alchemy of a kind that's all too rare..."