Fat Ass, the ‘Shawshank’ inmate who gets beaten to death, is played by Frank Medrano. One of the people who originally came to audition for that part is actor Jon Favreau, who didn’t get the part.
In an interview he gave to Empire Magazine, he said that the audition was the worst he’s ever had. Apparently, he doesn’t resent the experience, as it encouraged him to live a healthier life and lose weight.
The Canzonetta Sull'aria
In the scene that shows Andy turning up the volume on a classical music piece, the melody in the background is 'Canzonetta Sull'aria'. For those of you who don't know, it is a Mozart piece taken from 'The Marriage of Figaro'.
Originally, the music was supposed to just be playing in the background, bit Robbins had another idea. He is the one who thought about Andy turning up the volume and drawing more attention.
Remembering Allen Greene
Those of you who actually stay until the end of a film's credits will notice that 'The Shawshank Redemption' is dedicated to Allen Green. Who is he? We're glad you asked.
Greene was Darabont's agent, and the two were also close friends. Sadly, Greene passed away from AIDS complications shortly before the film was completed. The dedication was Darabont's gesture in Greene's memory.
The Bromance
Modern-day movies are bound to have a romantic relationship or two written into their script. 'The Shawshank Redemption', however, isn't big on romance.
Still, that doesn't mean there is no love story there. One of the greatest things about the film, as Tim Robbins once said, is that it has a non-sexual love story happening between two men. True bromance in all its glory.
TNT Didn't Pay Much for the Film
Since 'The Shawshank Redemption' had such a low box office opening, TNT was able to buy the television rights to it for a ridiculously low rate.
After the film gained popularity, the network could charge high advertising rates when airing the film at a low cost. This means that the network airs the film often while making lots of money in the process.