Powerful films, such as “The Shawshank Redemption,” use heartfelt stories to create a lasting impact on their audiences. “The Shawshank Redemption,” tells the story of Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a man sentenced to life in a prison notorious for its cruelty.

The film opens with Andy being sentenced to life in prison over the murder of his wife - a crime he didn’t commit. We follow Andy through 25 years of prison life, watching as he navigates through difficult circumstances.

Despite its grim premise, the film has stood the test of time and provides an important message about holding onto hope during difficult times. This message remains relevant after 30 years, especially during September, which is Suicide Prevention Month.

The film’s setting relates to its message about hope. Most of the audience has never been in Andy’s situation, but many can relate to feeling stuck in a bad situation that cannot be escaped.

While imprisoned, Andy is tortured and beaten; but he never lets this overpower him. Even when he is beaten within an inch of his life, he never lets this overpower him. Audiences watch this and can take inspiration from Andy as a result. 

Eventually, Andy’s luck begins to take a turn for the better. The warden (Bob Gunton) assigns him to help the guards financially. Andy ends up being so successful with this that guards from other prisons visit asking him for financial advice. Andy uses his position to convince the warden to provide a library for the prisoners, giving them access to education. 

Despite being in a hopeless situation, Andy is still able to improve the lives of those around him. His actions inspire the audience, especially if they too are in a situation they feel is hopeless.

As the film progresses, Andy adjusts to prison life and becomes more comfortable with his situation. Despite the other inmates telling him he should give up hope, he still believes that someday he will be a free man.

Andy’s positive attitude enrages the warden, who runs Shawshank as a harsh institution. He sentences him to solitary confinement for two months in an attempt to break his spirit forever.

When he gets out, Andy is depressed and asks another prisoner for a rope. The look that night on his friend Red’s (Morgan Freeman) face says it all. He fears he is about to lose his best friend.

The next morning, Andy does not leave his cell during roll call, and it is soon discovered that he managed to escape the prison. 

Audiences can identify with the concept of overcoming a personal struggle easily. When Andy throws his arms up in joy after finally escaping, the viewers relate to him having experienced that feeling.

The film uses its protagonist to establish a connection with the audience. Although Andy is in a unique situation, the audience understands his feeling of hopelessness and his desire to overcome these feelings.

“The Shawshank Redemption” symbolizes a struggle that so many have gone through. As Suicide Prevention Month comes to a close, it is important to remember the powerful message Andy’s journey provides.