Don't Miss This Iconic Stephen King Cinematic Prior to the Series' Upcoming Installment
HBO's Welcome to Derry contains numerous connections to the author's extensive universe of narratives. Beyond the obvious ties to It, the show also features an explicit connection to The Shining via the cameo of a young future chef of the Overlook Hotel. Currently, as the narrative progresses, Welcome to Derry is integrating one more classic King story which merits another look.
The Haunting Story of The Shawshank Redemption
Although Shawshank Redemption may not be considered a horror film, particularly in contrast with much of the author's additional writing, it remains a gripping tale of a innocently imprisoned man condemned to live his remaining years inside a infamous penitentiary. It is that very institution that becomes central in this context, as Shawshank State Prison holds considerable lore throughout King's stories — a pattern that continues within It: Welcome to Derry.
Among the tales that reference Shawshank are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Through these narratives, we discover regarding the awful conditions at Shawshank State Prison and some of the inmates within, such as the partner of one belonging to Pennywise's initial targets, who had been convicted for robbery with a weapon.
So far, though, the most we've learned concerning Shawshank has been via the perspective of the protagonist in The Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by Tim Robbins in the 1994 film. The character Andy ends up in Shawshank following his wrongful conviction, and finds himself beaten and abused by fellow inmates, and exploited by those in officials in power due to his financial knowledge. He requires him 28 years to tunnel an escape route from Shawshank, before making his way "through sewage" to take back his freedom.
The Prison's Appearance in Welcome to Derry
In relation to the series, audiences first learned of Shawshank's involvement via an initial preview for the show, in which a correctional transport appeared bearing the title displayed on its side. In episode 2, it is revealed which character is likely destined for the prison.
Though we know he was not commit the child deaths in the first episode, Hank Grogan (played by Stephen Rider), dad to Ronnie (Amanda Christine), is arrested for those offenses. A teaser for episode 3, "Now You See It," shows an officer informing a jailed Hank, "Are you aware what happens to kiddie killers at that prison?"
The Consequences for Hank and Ronnie
Given that the actual murderer in the town is a primordial entity originating elsewhere hunting and murdering children, Hank's chances of proving his innocence do not look good. Even should he ends up to Shawshank and the audience don't follow him inside, understanding what we do regarding Shawshank indicates that his time there would be far from pleasant.
More importantly, though, this development would endanger Ronnie. Hank is her protector. Horrible things are happening in the town that nobody, child or adult, comprehends and she just has her recently formed circle of pals to rely on. She will require her dad in the coming episodes, however should Shawshank plays a role, she could be without help.
One thing seems clear: Hank lacks three decades to tunnel to freedom.
It: Welcome to Derry the first two episodes are currently available on HBO Max. Additional installments are released each week on Sundays.
