Morgan Freeman has been a staple in Hollywood for decades, captivating audiences with an expansive list of memorable performances. The two-time Oscar-winning actor has graced the big and small screens with characters that offer unforgettable portrayals of strength and humanity. From iconic moments to never-forgettable performances, his career speaks for itself and here we highlight some of the best Morgan Freeman movies, and performances, of his career.
A Brief History of Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman goes beyond an iconic figure. He is an African-American representing Hollywood since the 1970s, and over decades of careful study, trial and error, he has managed to build a foundation for his own name.
His first feature film was in 1972, entitled “Who Says I Can’t Ride a Rainbow?” He quickly landed another movie role in 1991 as the character uncle Purlie in the movie “Driving Miss Daisy”. The list continued to grow with more iconic roles in movies such as “The Shawshank Redemption”, “Unforgiven” and “Se7en” which earned him his second Academy Award nomination in 1996.
The iconic performances of Morgan Freeman has gained him the prestigious title of one of the greatest actors of all time. He has been recognized with several awards, including 4 Oscar nominations, 1 Academy Award win, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA award.
Top 10 Morgan Freeman Movies
- The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Morgan Freeman plays the role of Red, a character who is serving a life sentence in prison for murder. As clips from this movie often demonstrate, Red is the source of invaluable wisdom to Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins) who is also serving a life sentence for a murder he didn’t commit. Almost 25 years later, Red’s words of advice when Andy is adjusting to prison life are still held in high regard.
- Unforgiven (1992)
Morgan Freeman stars as Bill Munny, an aging, world-weary man down on his luck. He’s struggling to make ends meet while trying to make sense of a changing world of lawlessness and violence set in the American West. Freeman’s role is equal parts badass outlaw, anti-hero, and tender-hearted father.
- Se7en (1995)
Morgan Freeman plays the role of Detective David Mills, the young detective looking to make a name for himself. With Brad Pitt as Morgan’s onscreen partner, the two set out to find a serial killer with a twisted sense of justice, with Freeman’s iconic performance being a major factor in helping ensure the success of the box office hit.
- Million Dollar Baby (2004)
In the role of Frankie Dunn, a retired boxing trainer who discovers a gifted female fighter, Morgan Freeman gives a heart-wrenching performance full of grit and determination. In the film, Frankie must come to terms with a complex past as he helps the young fighter, Maggie, to realize her dreams of becoming a champion.
- The Sum of All Fears (2002)
This is a movie based on Tom Clancy’s novel starring Ben Affleck as Jack Ryan. In the film, Morgan Freeman plays the role of CIA Director William Cabot, who helps Agent Jack Ryan in his investigation. Freeman captures the essence of Cabot expertly as he helps Ryan uncover a terror plot.
- Bruce Almighty (2003)
In this film, Morgan Freeman plays the role of God, who gives Bruce Nolan (Jim Carrey) the powers of the almighty after Bruce’s onscreen protests. With use of CGI, Freeman plays God perfectly, providing memorable lines and light-hearted comedic moments that have been embedded in the culture since the film’s release.
- Now You See Me (2013)
Morgan Freeman is part of an all-star cast that centers on a group of talented illusionists. In this film, Freeman plays the part of an FBI agent alongside Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, and Michael Caine. The agents are tasked with deciphering through a complicated web of illusions to uncover a magic trick of spectacular proportions.
- Invictus (2009)
In this film, Morgan Freeman plays a pivotal role in telling the remarkable story of Nelson Mandela’s rise to power in South Africa after apartheid. Freeman brings the role of Mandela to life, showcasing his charm and persuasive tactics in negotiations throughout the film.
- Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
Morgan Freeman stars alongside Kevin Costner in this adaptation of the classic tale. Freeman plays Azeem of the Moor, a nobleman of an African country that befriends and helps Robin Hood on his mission.
- The Dark Knight (2008)
In Christopher Nolan’s movie, Morgan Freeman plays Lucius Fox, an ally to Bruce Wayne and a brilliant scientist. His part in the movie consists of producing and providing Bruce Wayne with the gadgets he needs to combat crime in Gotham.
Best Performances and Quotes
Morgan Freeman has delivered a wide range of iconic performances in his career. Let’s take a look at some of his best scenes, and the famous quotes associated with them that define each character, highlighting his signature style:
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The Shawshank Redemption: “Hope is a good thing. Maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.”
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Million Dollar Baby: “It’s the magic of risking everything for a dream that nobody can see but you.”
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The Sum of All Fears: “If you want the truth, you’ve got to go this far.”
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The Dark Knight: “Some men aren’t looking for anything logical. They can’t be bought, bullied, reasoned, or negotiated with. Some men just want to watch the world burn.”
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Invictus: “I am the captain of my soul.”
Morgan Freeman has often been referred to as an “everyman”, with many of his performances seeming to embody different aspects of characters and the human condition. His films and the characters that Freeman has brought to life have stood the test of time, easily making him one of the most beloved actors of all time. Whether it’s through laughter, tears, heartache, or fear, his many characters have brought forth iconic performances and continue to reveal how special Freeman is as an actor.
