Don't Miss This Legendary Stephen King Cinematic Before It: Welcome to Derry's Upcoming Installment
HBO's Welcome to Derry contains numerous nods to the author's extensive library of stories. Apart from the clear ties to the original story, the series includes a direct link to The Shining via the appearance of a young Dick Hallorann. Currently, as the narrative unfolds, It: Welcome to Derry is integrating another classic tale from King which merits another look.
The Haunting Tale of The Shawshank Redemption
While Shawshank Redemption may not be considered horror, especially in contrast with much of the author's additional work, it is a haunting story about an innocently imprisoned man sentenced to spend his remaining years in a notorious penitentiary. And it's this specific institution that becomes central here, since Shawshank State Prison possesses significant lore throughout King's fictional world — a tradition that continues within It: Welcome to Derry.
Some of the stories that reference the prison are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Through these narratives, we discover regarding the terrible conditions inside Shawshank State Prison plus some of the inmates there, such as the boyfriend of one belonging to Pennywise's initial victims, who had been convicted for robbery with a weapon.
So far, however, the most we've learned concerning Shawshank has been through the eyes of the protagonist in Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by the actor Tim Robbins in the 1994 movie. The character Andy winds up at the prison after his wrongful conviction, then finds himself beaten and raped by other prisoners, and exploited by the officials in power for his financial knowledge. He requires nearly three decades to tunnel his way out from Shawshank, before making his way "through a river of shit" to take back his freedom.
Shawshank's Role in Welcome to Derry
In relation to It: Welcome to Derry, audiences first learned of Shawshank's inclusion from an early trailer for the show, where a correctional transport appeared bearing the title painted on the side. In episode 2, we learn which character is probably destined for the prison.
Although we know he did not commit the murders of children initially, Hank Grogan (Stephen Rider), father of Ronnie (Amanda Christine), is arrested for those offenses. The preview for the next episode, "the upcoming installment," shows a guard informing Hank in his cell, "Are you aware what they do to kiddie killers at that prison?"
The Consequences for the Character and Ronnie
Given that the real killer in Derry is an ancient power originating elsewhere hunting and killing kids, Hank's prospects of clearing his name appear slim. And even if he ends up in the prison and the audience do not see him there, understanding what is known regarding Shawshank makes it clear that his time there would be far from enjoyable.
Crucially, however, this situation could threaten Ronnie. Hank is her protector. Terrible events are occurring in the town which no one, child or adult, understands and Ronnie just has her recently formed circle of pals to depend 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 dig to freedom.
It: Welcome to Derry episodes 1 and 2 are streaming now on HBO Max. Additional installments are released each week each Sunday.
