2001 ZX2 automatic shifting problems

We just purchasd this car for my daughter and recently we've had problems getting it out of park. The shifter won't move unless the car has been on a few minutes. Or maybe it finally shifted after I worked it a bit and twisted slightly the handle while depressing the knob. There is also a sound coming from the steering column when shifting, perhaps a safety mechanism. Has anyone had this problem before? Thanks.

First make sure transmission fluid is where it should be.. with engine warm and in P or N, check the dipstick. Add if necessary.

The shifter should not come out of P without the brake applied... does your problem seem related to the brake at all?

Does the sound coming from the column seem related to the transmission, or to the parts inside the column as if something is broken/obstructing?