You Should Watch This Iconic Stephen King Movie Prior to the Series' Next Episode
HBO's It: Welcome to Derry contains numerous references to Stephen King's wide-ranging universe of narratives. Beyond the obvious links to the original story, the series showcases a direct link to King's famous novel via the appearance of a young Dick Hallorann. Currently, as the story progresses, Welcome to Derry is integrating another beloved tale from King that deserves a revisit.
The Powerful Story of The Shawshank Redemption
While Shawshank Redemption may not be considered a horror film, particularly in contrast with a lot of King's other work, it remains a gripping tale about an wrongfully convicted individual condemned to live the rest of his life inside a infamous penitentiary. And it's this specific penitentiary which is central in this context, since Shawshank State Prison possesses significant lore throughout King's fictional world — a tradition that continues in It: Welcome to Derry.
Among the stories which mention Shawshank include Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Through these stories, we discover about the terrible life at the state penitentiary and several of those imprisoned there, including the boyfriend of a of Pennywise's initial victims, who was convicted for robbery with a weapon.
Thus far, though, the majority we have discovered about the prison has been through the eyes of the protagonist in Shawshank Redemption, played by the actor Tim Robbins in that 1994 movie. Andy ends up at the prison following his wrongful conviction, then finds himself beaten and abused by fellow inmates, and taken advantage of by those in officials in power due to his expertise in finance. It takes him 28 years to tunnel his way out of the prison, prior to making his way "through sewage" to reclaim his liberty.
The Prison's Role in Welcome to Derry
Regarding the series, viewers initially discovered of Shawshank's inclusion from an early trailer for the series, where a correctional transport appeared bearing the title displayed on its side. In episode 2, it is revealed which character is probably headed to the prison.
Although we know he was not responsible for the murders of children initially, the character Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider), father of Ronnie (Amanda Christine), is arrested for the crimes. The preview for episode 3, "the upcoming installment," reveals an officer telling a jailed Hank, "Do you know what they do to kiddie killers at that prison?"
The Implications for Hank and Ronnie
Given that the real murderer in Derry is an ancient power from another world preying on and killing kids, Hank's prospects of clearing his name appear slim. Even should he does go to Shawshank and the audience don't follow him there, understanding what is known regarding Shawshank indicates that his experience would be far from pleasant.
Crucially, however, this development could threaten Ronnie. He acts as her protector. Terrible events are occurring around Derry which no one, child or adult, understands and Ronnie just has her recently formed of friends to rely on. She will require her father as the story progresses, but if the prison system plays a role, she could be without help.
One thing seems clear: Hank doesn’t have three decades to dig to freedom.
Welcome to Derry the first two episodes are currently available via the streaming service. Additional installments are released each week on Sundays.
