Why Frank Darabont Looked to ‘Shawshank Redemption’ When Directing ‘Stranger Things’

Filmmaker Frank Darabont has spent the better part of his career crafting nightmarish scenarios and deeply heartbreaking moments, often striking a balance between visceral horror and profound humanity.

From plunging audiences into the Lovecraftian horror of The Mist to chronicling the institutional cruelty and quiet hope of The Shawshank Redemption, Darabont left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens, carving out a singular niche in pop culture. His rare ability to fuse humanity with traditional horror allowed him to create emotionally resonant stories that linger long after the final frame.