WARNING: Not intended for story creation. The following information will not make you a better writer.
I love this movie. People love this movie. And readers love to break it down in terms of character archetypes.
What's the theme they ask? What's the thesis they want?
But you can also analyze it in terms of story form archetypes.
For example, the story has the classic Comedic story form. No not the "haha" definition.
It starts with a funeral - Andy and his wife are done. She's dead and he is sentenced to prison.
It ends with a wedding - Andy and Red unite at the beach in Mexico.
How else is this story archetypal of the Comedy?
Well, let's dig deeper into the Comedy story form.
First of all you've got two types of movies. Comedy and Tragedy.
Comedy ends high with the formation of a new relationship whether that be love, friendship, a new job with a new boss, a rekindled hobby etc.
Tragedy ends low with the death of a relationship whether that be lost love, friendship, a job, maybe giving up on a dream, etc.
Below each of those two definitions you've got a SPECTRUM or a CIRCLE.
On that spectrum or circle in no particular order are what some people call GENRE: drama, action, thriller, horror, slapstick, farce, adventure, romance, bromance, dog movie, etc, These color your foundation. Anyone reading this wear makeup?
So, the Shawshank Redemption falls into dramatic comedy with a period piece sentimentality sewn in for good measure. My GOD did you see those prison uniforms? Shoe in for the Oscars.
WARNING: Mind Blowing Tangent: Here's a kicker that you won't read ANYWHERE but here on Screenwriting Non-Essential:
SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION - Notice the name "Red" in redemption.
That's important. And I will be posting more on this key to unlocking the secrets of Shawshank Redemption depending on if anyone leaves a comment about it.
Okay back to business:
You can break each of the "genres" into "situational" archetypes.
So for the dramatic comedy you've got:
The Dark Situation
The Glimmer of Hope
The Bitter Event
The Crossing of Axis
and The Final Success
That's funny...you say you've never heard of these?
Well, you're not crazy. I just fucking made them up.
Why? Because I think it's pointless BS to analyze your favorite movies.
Just enjoy them and relax.
Yes, and the secrets to Shawshank. There is no secret!
The author probably chose the name Red because it's in the word Redemption and Red and Andy form this incredible relationship in which they are both Redeemed. It's not because he's fucking IRISH. LOL
COME ON PEOPLE. Give it up!
Let's have fun.
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