You Should Watch This Iconic Stephen King Film Prior to the Series' Upcoming Installment
HBO's Welcome to Derry is packed with nods to Stephen King's vast universe of narratives. Beyond the obvious ties to It, the series showcases an explicit connection to King's famous novel via the appearance of a young future chef of the Overlook Hotel. Currently, as the narrative unfolds, Welcome to Derry is integrating another classic King story which merits another look.
The Powerful Story of The Shawshank Redemption
Although The Shawshank Redemption may not be considered a horror film, particularly in contrast with much of the author's additional work, it is a gripping story about an wrongfully convicted man condemned to live his remaining years inside a notorious penitentiary. It is that very penitentiary which is central in this context, as the Shawshank facility possesses significant lore across King's fictional world — a pattern that continues within It: Welcome to Derry.
Among the tales which mention Shawshank include Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Via these stories, we learn regarding the terrible conditions inside the state penitentiary plus several of those imprisoned there, such as the boyfriend of one belonging to Pennywise's early targets, who had been found guilty of armed robbery.
Thus far, though, the majority we've learned concerning Shawshank was through the eyes of the protagonist in Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by Tim Robbins in the 1994 film. Andy winds up at the prison after being wrongly convicted, then experiences beaten and abused by other prisoners, and taken advantage of by those in officials in power due to his expertise in finance. It takes nearly three decades to tunnel an escape route from Shawshank, prior to making his way "through a river of shit" to take back his freedom.
The Prison's Role in Welcome to Derry
Regarding It: Welcome to Derry, viewers first learned about the prison's inclusion via an initial preview for the series, where a prison bus appeared bearing the title displayed on its side. In episode 2, we learn which character is likely headed to Shawshank.
Though it is known he was not commit the murders of children initially, the character Hank Grogan (played by Stephen Rider), dad to Ronnie (Amanda Christine), gets taken into custody for the crimes. A teaser for episode 3, "Now You See It," reveals a guard telling a jailed Hank, "Are you aware what they do to child murderers at that prison?"
The Implications for the Character and Ronnie
Considering that the actual murderer in the town is an ancient power originating elsewhere hunting and killing kids, Hank's prospects of clearing his name appear slim. Even should he does go to Shawshank and viewers do not see him there, knowing what is known about that prison indicates that his experience would not be enjoyable.
More importantly, however, this situation would endanger his daughter. Hank is her guardian. Horrible things are occurring around Derry that nobody, child or adult, comprehends and Ronnie only has her recently formed circle of pals to rely on. She will require her dad as the story progresses, however should Shawshank plays a role, she may be without help.
One thing is apparent: Hank lacks 28 years to tunnel his way out.
It: Welcome to Derry the first two episodes are streaming now via the streaming service. New episodes air weekly each Sunday.
