Coming from a novella, I was greatly impressed how the writer/director was able to significantly improve upon the original source material. Take for instance one of the changes employed: the book’s several jail wardens were compressed into just one for the firm version. Running for two hours, this technique enhanced characterization and made up for an unforgettable climax. Of the few times werein a film was able to improve upon the novel it was based upon, Shawshank should rank right up there with The Godfather and The Fight Club.