The series Welcome to Derry is filled with references to Stephen King's vast universe of narratives. Beyond the clear links to It, the show also features a direct connection to The Shining via the cameo of a young future chef of the Overlook Hotel. Now, as the narrative progresses, Welcome to Derry is weaving in one more classic King story that deserves another look.
While Shawshank Redemption may not be considered a horror film, particularly in contrast with much of King's other writing, it is a haunting story about an wrongfully convicted individual condemned to live his remaining years inside a infamous prison. It is this specific institution that becomes important in this context, as Shawshank State Prison possesses considerable lore across King's stories — a tradition that continues in It: Welcome to Derry.
Among the tales which mention Shawshank are Dolores Claiborne, Needful Things, Apt Pupil, 11/22/63, as well as It. Via these narratives, we learn regarding the terrible conditions at Shawshank State Prison plus several of those imprisoned within, including the partner of a belonging to Pennywise's early targets, who was found guilty for robbery with a weapon.
Thus far, however, the majority we have discovered about the prison has been via the eyes of the protagonist from Shawshank Redemption, portrayed by Tim Robbins in the 1994 movie. The character Andy ends up at the prison after his wrongful conviction, and finds himself beaten and raped by other prisoners, while exploited by those in officials in power due to his expertise in finance. He requires nearly three decades to dig an escape route from Shawshank, before making his way "through sewage" to take back his liberty.
Regarding It: Welcome to Derry, audiences first learned of Shawshank's involvement via an early trailer for the show, in which a correctional transport was seen with the name displayed on its side. In episode 2, it is revealed who is likely headed to Shawshank.
Though we know he did not commit the murders of children in the first episode, the character Hank Grogan (played by Stephen Rider), father of Ronnie (Amanda Christine), gets taken into custody for the crimes. A teaser for the next episode, "the upcoming installment," reveals a guard informing a jailed Hank, "Do you know what they do to child murderers at that prison?"
Given that the actual murderer in Derry is a primordial entity originating elsewhere preying on and murdering kids, Hank's chances of proving his innocence appear slim. And even if he does go in the prison and the audience do not see him inside, knowing what we do regarding Shawshank makes it clear that his experience would be far from pleasant.
Crucially, though, this development would endanger his daughter. Hank is her guardian. Horrible things are happening around Derry which no one, young or old, understands and Ronnie just has her recently formed circle of pals to rely on. She will require her dad in the coming episodes, but if Shawshank plays a role, she may be without help.
One thing seems clear: Hank lacks 28 years to tunnel his way out.
It: Welcome to Derry the first two episodes are streaming now on HBO Max. Additional installments are released each week on Sundays.
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