With his undeniable screen presence and authoritative voice, Morgan Freeman has become one of the most popular actors in Hollywood. Receiving five Academy Award nominations and one win, it’s safe to say Freeman is a recognized as major talent in US cinema. However while he has received numerous accolades for his serious roles, Freeman also happens to have a talent for comedy, as showcased in his latest movie, Last Vegas. As the film opens in UK cinemas this week, FilmJuice takes a look at some of Morgan Freeman’s best comedy performances.
Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
In a comedy-drama about the transformation of prejudice and racism, Morgan Freeman plays Hoke Coleburn, a chauffeur, hired by Miss Daisy (Jessica Tandy), a 72 year-old-wealthy white Jewish widow. As Daisy gradually begins to trust and accept Hoke, they form a strong friendship. Heart warming and amusing, the film received a total of four awards out of nine nominations, including Best Actor (Morgan Freeman) from the 1989 Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.
Bruce Almighty (2003)
With a cast that features Morgan Freeman and Jim Carrey, Bruce Almighty was bound to be a blockbuster. Bruce Nolan (Carrey), is an unlucky TV reporter who complains about God once too often. God (Freeman) finally offers Bruce the chance to see just how difficult it is to be ‘Almighty’ – by allowing him to play God for one whole week. The two talented actors work together to make a comedy classic. When released in American cinemas, it took the Number one spot at the US Box Office and grossed $85.89 million.
The Big Bounce (2004)
Jack Ryan (Owen Wilson) is a lovable drifter and occasional thief who heads to Hawaii for a change of scenery. In no time at all, Jack realises he needs either a new con … or a new romance. Working construction for suspicious Ray Ritchie (Gary Sinise), he is warned to leave the Island. Ignoring the warning, Jack falls foul of District Judge Walter Crewes (Freeman) who offers him a job while taking an unusual interest in Jack’s past crimes and future. To top it all off, Nancy Hayes (Sara Foster), tries to convince Jack into helping her double-cross Ritchie.
The Bucket List (2007)
Meeting in hospital after both being diagnosed with cancer, Carter Chambers (Freeman) and Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson) strike up an unlikely friendship. Carter begins writing a “bucket list” ofthings to do before he “kicks the bucket”. The pair begin an around-the-world vacation, in order to complete the list. The chemistry between the two phenomenal actors adds to the touching, comedic performances.
The Maiden Heist (2009)
Art museum security guards, Charles (Freeman)) and Roger (Chistopher Walken) are both obsessed with the same painting, The Lonely Maiden. When fellow guard George (William H Macey) learns that the Lonely Maiden, along with his favourite sculpture, are being moved to a museum in Denmark, the three hatch a plan to steal their beloved works of art and replace them with replicas. When a slip-up throws their plan into chaos, the trio must scramble to avoid spending their golden years in jail.
Last Vegas is released in cinemas on January 3rd 2014