Movie Buffs, There Is More Beyond The Shawshank Redemption
Everyone into Freeman’s magic loves The Shawshank Redemption, but what if we told you there’s more? Surprised? Let’s take you down memory lane with 20 additional pictures and their Rotten Tomatoes critic ratings guiding the ranks.
1. The Lego Movie (2014)
Yup, this guy is a multi-talented lad, and his voice is welcome in all movie categories, including animation. Here, we enjoy Freeman voicing Vitruvius’s character, a wise yet quirky mentor. The Lego Movie burst onto screens in 2014 with colorful visuals and hilarious storytelling.
Warner Bros., The Lego Movie (2014)
It’s The Jokes For Us
On a $60 million budget, the movie smashed expectations, grossing $468 million globally. Rotten Tomatoes awarded it 97% (top critics) and 87% (audiences). There’s also some lessons where Vitruvius delivers wisdom, “The only thing anyone needs to be special is to believe that you can be”. All facts!
2. Glory (1989)
Glory gets an impressive 95% by critics and 93% by audiences. Here, Freeman plays Sergeant Major John Rawlins, a fatherly figure among the first African-American regiment in the Civil War. The 1989 film showcases his commanding presence, especially in battle scenes that highlight courage and sacrifice.
Rawlins Confronts Trip Scene | Glory (Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman) by Moving Pictures
Nothing But Good Reviews
With a $27 million budget, it grossed $26.8 million and also earned lasting acclaim. Robert Ebert gave this picture a 3 ½ star out of four and remarking that the movie was “a strong and valuable film no matter whose eyes it is seen through”. More publication critics agreed.
Rawlins Confronts Trip Scene | Glory (Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman) by Moving Pictures
3. The Dark Knight (2008)
Freeman also dubs his feet into some comic-coming-to-life action as he shines as Lucius Fox in The Dark Knight. He provided Batman with gadgets and moral support. After it’s release in 2008, Christopher Nolan’s superhero masterpiece became a box office phenomenon, earning over $1 billion.
Batman The Dark Knight- Blackmailing Batman by PumaProductionsZF
A Well-Needed Balance
Freeman’s charisma balances the Joker’s chaos, and the actor adds gravitas to Gotham’s drama. From the Batmobile to surveillance tech, Fox’s genius underpins Batman’s success. Critics and audiences both gave it a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and this cemented its status as one of the best superhero films ever.
Batman The Dark Knight- Blackmailing Batman by PumaProductionsZF
4. Unforgiven (1992)
In Unforgiven, Freeman’s Ned Logan pairs perfectly with Clint Eastwood’s grizzled outlaw. The moment Ned confronts his violent past is hauntingly beautiful that it made this 1992 Western film a redefination of the genre. It emphasised morality over gunfights; it paid off at 93% (all audience) and 92% (critics).
Unforgiven (5/10) Movie CLIP - Shooting Davey (1992) HD by Movieclips
High Remarks Everywhere
Earning $159.2 million on a $14.4 million budget, Unforgiven swept the Oscars. Critics like a Los Angeles critic made a comment that the movie was “the finest classical western to come along since perhaps John Ford’s 1956 The Searchers”. Robert Ebert has it on his Greatest list.
Unforgiven (5/10) Movie CLIP - Shooting Davey (1992) HD by Movieclips
5. Gone Baby Gone (2007)
This is a picture that got featured in 65 critics' top ten lists. But that isn’t all—91% from top critics and 86% from all audiences. The winning grace? Ben Affleck (the director) giving this 2007 crime drama a deep dive into the murky waters of morality and justice fearlessly.
Gone Baby Gone (6/10) Movie CLIP - To Lose a Child (2007) HD by Movieclips
Back To The Top
Freeman’s role as a conflicted lawman adds emotional depth and this earned the film $34 million revenue on a $19 million budget. Memorable scenes, like the intense confrontation with Casey Affleck’s character, linger long after the credits roll. His performance anchors the film’s moral dilemmas, giving it that special appeal.
Gone Baby Gone (6/10) Movie CLIP - To Lose a Child (2007) HD by Movieclips
6. Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
Graceful and poignant, Driving Miss Daisy highlights Freeman as Hoke Colburn, a chauffeur moving through a complex friendship with Jessica Tandy’s Daisy. This 1989 picture won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Freeman’s line, “Yes, ma’am, I can drive”, became a slogan for most.
Warner Bros., Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
Still A Gem
Rotten Tomatoes grade it 88% from top critics and 91% from all audiences. This proves that this quiet masterpiece still holds a place in our hearts. the film became a cultural touchstone earning $145.8 million on a modest $7.5 million budget. Freeman’s subtle expressions reveal Hoke’s dignity and resilience.
The Zanuck Company, Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
7. Batman Begins (2005)
Before we saw Freeman Lucius Fox in the 2008 continuation, we also cannot forget his debut in Batman Begins. This was the first time the actor brought wisdom and humor to Bruce Wayne’s transformation. Batman Begins released in 2005 and it revitalized the Batman franchise with realism and grit.
Batman Begins - Official® Trailer [HD] by TrailersPlaygroundHD
The Gadget-Master Himself
Fox’s impressive gadgets added a sleek, modern edge. Critics and audiences alike praised the picture, giving it an 85% and 94% score, respectively. With a $150 million budget, it grossed $373 million worldwide. Freeman’s performance made Fox indispensable to Gotham’s savior.
Batman Begins - Official® Trailer [HD] by TrailersPlaygroundHD
8. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Standing at 90% for both critics and all audiences ratings, Clint Eastwood’s Million Dollar Baby gave Freeman his long-overdue Oscar win. Playing Eddie “Scrap-Iron” Dupris, Freeman narrates the story of a female boxer’s rise and fall. The best part? The film’s raw emotion and Freeman’s calm delivery.
MILLION DOLLAR BABY Trailer (2005) by KinoCheck Archive
A Worthy Investment
The unforgettable final act leaves audiences teary-eyed yet inspired. Produced for $30 million, it earned $216 million worldwide. One critic said, “Clint Eastwood’s assured direction—combined with knockout performances from Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman—help Million Dollar Baby to transcend its clichés, and the result is deeply heartfelt and moving”.
MILLION DOLLAR BABY Trailer (2005) by KinoCheck Archive
9. Se7en (1995)
A spine-chilling thriller, Se7en pairs Morgan Freeman’s Detective Somerset with Brad Pitt’s fiery rookie. Released in 1995, it shocked audiences with its grim tale of the seven deadly sins—lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy, and pride. The iconic “What’s in the box”? The scene became a pop culture staple.
Arnold Kopelson Productions, Se7en (1995)
Made Multiples Of Its Budget
Freeman’s portrayal of Somerset is masterful, personifying both wisdom and weariness. With a $33 million budget, the film grossed over $327 million globally. Director David Fincher’s eerie atmosphere amplifies every twist. No wonder it’s rated 83% (all critics) and 95% (all audiences) on Rotten Tomatoes.
10. Invictus (2009)
Even though the Rotten Tomatoes ratings on this one are lower at 84% from all top critics and 75% from all audiences, Freeman’s transformation into Nelson Mandela in Invictus was still a masterpiece. This 2009 drama earned Freeman critical acclaim for his measured and authentic portrayal of Mandela.
Invictus #3 Movie CLIP - This is the Time to Build Our Nation (2009) HD by Movieclips
Accuracy Wins
Invictus cost $60 million, and it grossed doubly $122 million globally. Something you also need to know is that the name was intentional. It comes from when Nelson Mandela gave a manuscript of the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley to the captain of the South African rugby team.
Invictus #3 Movie CLIP - This is the Time to Build Our Nation (2009) HD by Movieclips
11. Street Smart (1987)
Another of Freeman’s pieces with mixed remarks is this one. Critics loved it at 83%, while audiences scored it at 45%. Critics seem to know their staff because Freeman’s chilling performance as Fast Black, a ruthless pimp, earned him an Oscar nomination.
The Cannon Group, Inc. 'Street Smart'
A New-Ish Turn
Unlike what we were used to, this 1987 gritty drama was Freeman’s opportunity to highlight his darker side. It just added to his ability to take, dissect, and dominate morally complex characters. Scenes where Fast Black confronts Christopher Reeve’s journalist crackle with tension.
12. Amistad (1997)
Steven Spielberg’s Amistad casts Freeman as Theodore Joadson, a free black man fighting for justice in a landmark slavery case. The 1997 film is gripping, with Freeman’s eloquent speeches shining. His commitment to the cause is palpable, and he owns the picture 78% and 79% of all critics and audiences.
Amistad (1997) | Bande-annonce VOSTF (HD | 1080p | 5.1) by Bandes-annonces | VF & VOSTF 4K HD HQ
A Historical Gem
This picture has gained historical significance and a couple of Academy Awards. Freeman loved acting here; “I loved the film. I really did. I had a moment of err, during the killings. I thought that was a little over-wrought. But Spielberg wanted to make a point and I understood that “.
Amistad (1997) | Bande-annonce VOSTF (HD | 1080p | 5.1) by Bandes-annonces | VF & VOSTF 4K HD HQ
13. Lucy (2014)
If you have a knack for interesting sci-fi that digs into the human brain, you’ll love Lucy. Freeman plays Professor Norman, a neuroscientist guiding Scarlett Johansson’s superhuman journey in Lucy. Luc Besson’s success grossed $469 million on a $40 million budget.
Lucy: Phone Call by Binge Society
Elevating Genres
Top critics rated it 75%, while audiences gave it a 47%. Yet again, critics were right because in multiple scenes, where Freeman explains brain capacity, are spot on. Lines like “We humans only use 10% of our brains” became instantly quotable. He elevates Lucy to heights beyond others.
Lucy: Phone Call by Binge Society
14. Lean On Me (1989)
Joe Clark, a no-nonsense principal determined to save his school, is the role Freeman takes here. Lean on Me is packed with memorable moments, including Clark’s blunt but motivating speeches. “You smoke cr**k, don’t you”? became an unforgettable line.
Lean on Me (1989) - Joe vs Frank by Iamthe80sguy2
It Tipped The Scales
Sometimes, critics and audiences give differing opinions. This is one of those cases where critics gave it a 68% while audiences 85%. Nonetheless, Lean on Me grossed $31 million on a $10 million budget. Freeman’s passionate performance reminds you that tough love can spark transformation, even in the toughest circumstances.
Lean on Me (1989) - Joe vs Frank by Iamthe80sguy2
15. Outbreak (1995)
Outbreak had Freeman as General Billy Ford, a man torn between duty and morality during a deadly virus outbreak. The beauty of this 1995 thriller is how it evokes a feeling of being eerily relevant, with Freeman’s commanding presence boosting credibility. His conflicts with Dustin Hoffman’s character spark intense drama.
Outbreak (1995) - Your Morbid Desire Scene (1/6) | Movieclips by Movieclips
Mixed Reactions
Even with mixed remarks, it grossed $189 million against a $50 million budget. All critics rated it 59%, but viewers gave it a 56%. Memorable moments, such as the tense helicopter chase, keep you glued. He shines, thanks to his role as a moral compass amid chaos.
Outbreak (1995) - Your Morbid Desire Scene (1/6) | Movieclips by Movieclips
16. Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1991)
This was an intriguing picture where Freeman introduces us to Azeem—a wise Moorish warrior. Paired with Kevin Costner’s Robin Hood, Freeman’s performance as a loyal and courageous ally stood out, adding depth to the swashbuckling tale. Rotten Tomatoes score it 51% (critics) and 72% (audiences).
Morgan Creek Productions, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves(1991)
Breaking Barriers On And Off-Screen
Freeman’s characterization of Azeem broke barriers—showcasing diversity in medieval tales. His chemistry with Costner injected humor and heart into the story. And it happened everywhere, from epic battles to poignant exchanges, Freeman ensured Azeem was more than a sidekick—he was unforgettable. Its budget was $48–60 million; revenue $390.5 million.
Robin Hood Rescue Scene by Johnny's War Stories
17. Now You See Me (2013)
In Now You See Me, Freeman plays Thaddeus Bradley, a former magician debunking an elusive group of illusionists. This show is where Freeman’s sly performance added intrigue that earned the picture a gross revenue of $351 million on a $75 million budget.
Now You See Me (10/11) Movie CLIP - Someone on the Inside (2013) HD by Movieclips
Here’s The Twist
All critics gave it a 51%, but audiences gave it 70%. How? Well, we think its because of Freeman’s cunning character which adopted a cat-and-mouse strategy. We also saw wit, cinematic reveals, charm. It was a magician’s tale that still resonates.
Now You See Me (10/11) Movie CLIP - Someone on the Inside (2013) HD by Movieclips
18. Bruce Almighty (2003)
Bruce Almighty is both humorous and profound, and the cherry on the cake is Freeman’s role as a god. On an $81 million budget, it grossed $485 million worldwide. Top critics gave Bruce Almighty a 51%, but audiences loved it at 57%. Perhaps the low ratings were because of the following.
Spyglass Entertainment, Bruce Almighty(2003)
A Ban By Six
The iconic line, “You can’t mess with free will”, has to be what most fans loved. The unfortunate thing is that the film got banned in a few countries that believe the portrayal of God as an ordinary man was unacceptable—Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Universal Pictures Bruce Almighty
19. Deep Impact (1998)
Here, Freeman took on the role of President Beck. The film is a disaster film exploring humanity’s response to an impending comet collision. It grossed $349 million against a $80 million budget. Critics rated it 45%, and audiences gave it 43%.
Deep Impact: The President Final Speech (HD CLIP) by Binge Society
A Win Is A Win
This actor’s delivery of lines like “Life will go on; we will prevail” is stuck with us. Freeman’s presence added hope amidst chaos; it switched a disaster flick with a thoughtful exploration of human resilience. Even with low %’s, they still make a killing financially. A win is a win.
Deep Impact: The President Final Speech (HD CLIP) by Binge Society
20. The Bucket List (2007)
We all have a bucket list; what does yours include? In this picture, where Freeman paired with Jack Nicholson for The Bucket List, two terminally ill men chase life’s experiences. The reception of this film was clearly mixed with Robert Ebert, a Chicago Sun-Times critic, a cancer survivor himself, saying…
Warner Bros., The Bucket List (2007)
Mixed Remarks, But Still Beloved
The movie “...thinks dying of cancer is a laff riot followed by a dime-store epiphany”. He said this after giving it a one-star. Still, its budget was $45 million, and the revenue multiplied to $175 million globally. Critics scored it 40%, but audiences loved it at 77%.
