Morgan Freeman’s Career in Comedy Films

With a presence on screen that demands attention, an authoritative voice, and impeccable acting skills, Morgan Freeman has become one of the most popular actors in Hollywood. Receiving 5 Academy Award nominations and 1 win, it’s safe to say Freeman is a recognized talent in US cinema. Throughout his career, he has taken on a diversity of roles and genres. LAST VEGAS, once again showcases Freeman’s comedy skills. With the highly anticipated release of LAST VEGAS, we have put together a list of Morgan Freeman’s best performances in comedy or comedy-drama films.

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 from nine nominations, including Best Actor (Morgan Freeman) from the 1989 Academy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.

Bruce Almighty (2003)

With a cast of Morgan Freeman and Jim Carrey, Bruce Almighty was bound to be a blockbuster. Bruce Nolan (Jim Carrey), an unlucky TV reporter who complains about God all too often, is given an offer to be God (Morgan Freeman) for one whole week. The two talented actors work together to make a comedy classic. When released in American cinemas, it took the number 1 spot at the box office and grossed $85.89 million.

The Big Bounce (2004)

Jack Ryan (Owen Wilson) a lovable drifter and occasional thief heads to Hawaii for a change of scenery. In no time at all, Jack realises he needs a new con or a romance. Working construction for suspicious Ray Ritchie (Gary Sinise), he is warned to leave the Island. Ignoring the warning, North Shore District Judge Walter Crewes (Morgan Freeman) offers Jack a job while taking an unusual interest in Jack’s past crimes and future. To top it all off, Nancy Hayes (Sara Foster), tried to convince Jack into helping her double-cross Ritchie.

The Bucket List (2007)

Meeting in the hospital after both being diagnosed with cancer, Carter Chambers (Freeman) and Edward Cole (Nicholson) strike up an unlikely friendship. Carter begins writing a “bucket list”, or things 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 give a touching comedic performance.

The Maiden Heist (2009)

Art museum security guard, Charles (Morgan Freeman) and Roger (Chistopher Walken) are both obsessed with the same painting, The Lonely Maiden. They learn that that their favourite painting, as well as several pieces in the gallery, is being moved to a museum in Denmark. George (William H. Macy), a fellow security guard obsessed with a sculpture also being moved, conceives a plan to steal their favourite works of art and replace them with replicas. When a small 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 3 2014