The fact that it was inspired by prison stories. Stephen King used his knowledge of prison life, whether from research or hearing real - life accounts, to create the story.
The movie is based on a true story in terms of its portrayal of the prison environment. The way inmates form relationships, deal with the corrupt prison system, and strive for freedom all have elements of truth. For instance, the friendship between Andy and Red is a common bond that forms in prisons. Also, the unfair treatment by the prison authorities was a real - life situation in many prisons. These aspects make it a movie with roots in a true story.