'Shawshank Redemption' to 'Million Dollar Baby': Morgan Freeman's best performances
You hear a narration in a voice with a unique calmness and gravitas and you know it's Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman. A name synonymous with cinematic excellence, Freeman has graced the silver screen for decades with his unparalleled talent and charisma. Throughout his illustrious career, Freeman has portrayed an array of iconic characters, each leaving an indelible mark in Hollywood. Check out some below.
'Street Smart' (1987)
Jerry Schatzberg's crime thriller film got Freeman his first Oscar nomination establishing him as a formidable presence in Hollywood. In this gritty drama, he embodies the menacing charisma of a small-time hustler entangled in a dangerous web of crime and deceit. Starring Christopher Reeve and Kathy Baker, it follows a New York journalist who's trapped in a murder web for his fake story.
'Driving Miss Daisy' (1989)
Freeman earned another Oscar nomination for his performance in the 1989 comedy-drama film Driving Miss Daisy directed by Bruce Beresford. He plays the role of a chauffeur for Miss Daisy (Jessica Tandy) and his relationship with her evolves from initial reluctance to deep friendship over the years. Freeman's subtle and graceful performance conveying warmth, resilience, and an unwavering sense of dignity is critically acclaimed.
'The Shawshank Redemption' (1994)
Freeman portrays the role of Red, who believes "hope is a dangerous thing, hope can drive a man insane" in the timeless, Oscar-nominated Stephen King adaptation, The Shawshank Redemption. As the film's narrator and a fellow inmate of the protagonist, Freeman's performance captures the essence of redemption, friendship, and hope, making Red one of his most enduring and beloved roles in cinematic history.
'Se7en' (1995)
The 1995 Oscar-nominated crime thriller film Se7en starring Freeman, Brad Pitt, Gwyneth Paltrow, and John C McGinley is one of David Fincher's masterpieces. Freeman's role as Detective William Somerset is a testament to his versatile acting prowess. He portrays a world-weary detective on the brink of retirement, navigating a gruesome murder investigation alongside his young and impulsive partner (Pitt).
'Million Dollar Baby' (2004)
Directed, co-produced by, and starring Clint Eastwood, the sports drama film Million Dollar Baby stars Freeman and Hilary Swank. Playing Eddie "Scrap-Iron" Dupris, the loyal and wise assistant to Maggie's (Swank) mentor (Eastwood) and a former boxer, Freeman delivers a performance that's both touching and poignant. His portrayal reflects compassion and resilience which earned him an Academy Award for his performance.
