You Should Watch One Iconic Stephen King Cinematic Prior to the Series' Next Episode
The series Welcome to Derry is packed with references to the author's vast collection of tales. Beyond the obvious links to the original story, the show showcases an explicit link to The Shining via the appearance of the youthful future chef of the Overlook Hotel. Currently, as the story unfolds, It: Welcome to Derry is weaving in one more classic King story that deserves another look.
The Powerful Tale of The Shawshank Redemption
While The Shawshank Redemption may not be classified as a horror film, particularly compared to much of King's other writing, it remains a gripping tale about an wrongfully convicted individual sentenced to spend the rest of his life in a notorious penitentiary. And it's this specific institution that becomes important here, as Shawshank State Prison possesses significant history across King's stories — a pattern which persists within It: Welcome to Derry.
Among the tales that reference Shawshank are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, and It. Through these stories, we learn regarding the awful life at Shawshank State Prison and some of those imprisoned there, such as the partner of one of Pennywise's initial targets, who had been found guilty of armed robbery.
Thus far, however, the majority we have discovered concerning Shawshank has been via the perspective of Andy Dufresne from The Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by the actor Tim Robbins in that 1994 film. The character Andy winds up at the prison after his wrongful conviction, then finds himself assaulted and abused by fellow inmates, while exploited by those in officials in power due to his expertise in finance. He requires him 28 years to dig his way out from Shawshank, prior to making his way "through sewage" to reclaim his liberty.
The Prison's Role in It: Welcome to Derry
Regarding It: Welcome to Derry, viewers first learned of Shawshank's involvement via an initial preview for the show, in which a correctional transport was seen with the name displayed on its side. During the second episode, we learn who is probably destined for the prison.
Though it is known he was not responsible for the murders of children initially, the character Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider), dad to Ronnie (Amanda Christine), gets taken into custody for those offenses. The preview for episode 3, "the upcoming installment," reveals a guard informing Hank in his cell, "Are you aware what happens to child murderers at that prison?"
The Implications for the Character and Ronnie
Given that the real killer in the town is an ancient power from another world hunting and murdering kids, Hank's chances of proving his innocence appear slim. And even if he does go in the prison and viewers do not see him there, understanding what is known about that prison indicates that his experience would not be enjoyable.
Crucially, though, this development would endanger Ronnie. Hank is her protector. Terrible events are occurring in the town which no one, young or old, understands and she only has her new group of friends to depend on. She will require her father in the coming episodes, however should Shawshank plays a role, she may be without help.
One thing is apparent: Hank lacks 28 years to dig his way out.
It: Welcome to Derry episodes 1 and 2 are currently available via the streaming service. Additional installments air weekly each Sunday.
