- Primary Subject: The Shawshank Redemption
- Key Update: The film is currently streaming and available to purchase digitally in 2026.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: February 11, 2026
- Quick Answer: You can stream The Shawshank Redemption on AMC+, YouTube TV, Philo, Pluto TV, and select Netflix regions, or rent and buy it via Apple TV and Amazon.
Few films have the staying power of The Shawshank Redemption. Frank Darabont’s prison drama — starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman — has become one of the most beloved and rewatched movies of all time.
Based on Stephen King’s novel Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, the story follows Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly convicted of murder, and Red, the lifer who becomes his closest friend. Together, they endure the harsh realities of Shawshank State Penitentiary while quietly plotting something far bigger: hope.
Planning your first watch or a meaningful rewatch? Here’s exactly where to stream The Shawshank Redemption in 2026, with recommendations for some of the best VPN services like ExpressVPN and VeePN if it’s unavailable in your region.
Where to Stream The Shawshank Redemption
The movie rotates between platforms depending on licensing, but it’s currently available on:
If The Shawshank Redemption isn’t included in your subscription services, you can rent or buy the movie digitally from:
Digital Rental or Purchase:
- Apple TV
- Fandango at Home
- Amazon Video
A purchased digital copy remains in your library indefinitely – even if the platform loses streaming rights later. Rentals, on the other hand, usually expire 30 days after purchase if unwatched, or within 24 to 48 hours once you start viewing.
If The Shawshank Redemption isn’t available in your country or on your usual streaming platforms, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help.
How to Watch The Shawshank Redemption With a VPN
As the streaming rights vary by country, a VPN helps to connect you to a server in another region where The Shawshank Redemption is available, bypassing georestrictions. It lets you access the content as if you were in the region.
Why use a VPN?
- Unlock region-restricted titles
- Stream safely on public Wi-Fi
- Reduce buffering and ISP throttling
- Protect your online privacy
Recommended VPNs for Streaming
- ExpressVPN: 3,000+ servers, fast and ultra-reliable
- VeePN: 2,600+ servers, budget-friendly pricing
Both VPNs enable you to unlock streaming content from almost anywhere with few limitations. ExpressVPN stands out for its extensive server network, while VeePN offers strong performance and excellent affordability.
Evaluating their features side by side can help you decide which service best suits your streaming preferences.
Fast and Reliable
A Budget VPN
Additional VPN Options
- NordVPN: Strong security with consistently fast speeds
- Surfshark: Unlimited device connections at an affordable price
- CyberGhost: Known for fast performance and a reliable global server network
- Private Internet Access: Feature-rich with a strong focus on privacy
Was The Shawshank Redemption a Success?
Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 1994, The Shawshank Redemption earned widespread critical acclaim upon its full release later that same month. However, the same could not be said for its box-office performance.
In fact, the opposite was true; the film was a major box-office disappointment. Made on a $25 million budget, it grossed only $16 million during its initial theatrical run, facing stiff competition from other iconic releases at the time, including Pulp Fiction and Forrest Gump. And although it received multiple award nominations, it failed to secure a win.
Following a theatrical re-release, however, the film’s total box-office gross climbed to $73.3 million – a significant jump from its original earnings, bolstered by international revenue.
Its award recognition and growing word of mouth further boosted its profile, leading it to become the top video rental of 1995. Its popularity surged even more after it began airing regularly on TNT in 1997.
Despite its modest beginnings, The Shawshank Redemption ultimately evolved into a cultural phenomenon and a fan favorite, earning a place on IMDb’s Top 250. The film also holds an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critical praise that has cemented its status as one of cinema’s most uplifting and enduring dramas.
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