Morgan Freeman’s Top-Rated Movies, Ranked by IMDb

Few actors command the screen like Morgan Freeman. His unmistakable voice, effortless gravitas, and ability to bring depth to any role have cemented him as one of Hollywood’s most respected stars. But which of his films stands above the rest? Based on IMDb ratings, this list highlights his most acclaimed performances—some you may already love and others that might just become your next favorite.

Evan Almighty (2007): Rated 5.4/10

What happens when God gives a man a divine task—and that man is Steve Carell? In this quirky tale, Freeman brings the thunder (literally) as the Almighty, guiding Carell’s character through a flood of absurdity. While the movie didn’t sweep the awards circuit, “Evan Almighty” still made a splash

High Crimes (2002): Rated 6.4/10

Imagine finding your husband’s been living a double life, and now he’s accused of a crime he didn’t commit. That’s where Morgan’s character helps Ashley Judd’s lawyer ride in this thriller. Freeman’s performance is sharp, enhancing a story that didn’t earn major awards but definitely left audiences hooked.

The Sum Of All Fears (2002): Rated 6.4/10

Morgan Freeman portrays CIA Director William Cabot, who enlists analyst Jack Ryan to investigate and stop a potential nuclear threat. Freeman’s mannerisms and authoritative presence adds layers to the character, which makes him a reliable leader in the midst of high-stakes tension.

Along Came A Spider (2001): Rated 6.4/10

This movie follows Cross as he investigates the kidnapping of two children, which leads him into a dangerous game with a criminal mastermind. The film is a tense mix of mystery and psychological drama, with Freeman delivering a strong performance as a determined yet vulnerable detective.

War Of The Worlds (2005): Rated 6.5/10

Morgan Freeman plays a key role as the voice of the mysterious, all-knowing narrator. While the movie focuses on Tom Cruise’s frantic survival story, Freeman’s calm, omniscient voice gives a haunting backdrop, which makes it feel like there’s a deeper understanding of the madness unfolding.

Olympus Has Fallen (2013): Rated 6.5/10

When the White House falls into the hands of terrorists, things get tense. Enter Morgan as Allan Trumbull, the calm Speaker of the House. Over time, the chaos unfolds, and Freeman’s presence adds a sense of order, showing that even in the midst of mayhem, a steady hand can make all the difference.

Going In Style (2017): Rated 6.6/10

Think of three elderly men who decide they’ve had enough of their retirement funds getting snatched away, so they take matters into their own hands—with a bank robbery. In this movie, Morgan, alongside Michael Caine and Alan Arkin, steals the show as a grandpa who could pull off a heist so smoothly.

Wanted (2008): Rated 6.7/10

No role is too wild for Morgan Freeman, and his portrayal of Sloan, the enigmatic leader of a secret society of assassins, proves this. Freeman’s character exudes authority, guiding the protagonist, Wesley, into his rightful place in the fraternity. This role really puts Freeman’s versatility in perspective.

RED (2010): Rated 7.0/10

In “RED,” Morgan Freeman portrays Joe Matheson, a retired CIA operative who reunites with his team to reveal a conspiracy threatening their lives. While the plot is intriguing, Freeman’s acting breathes life into the role, balancing humor and gravitas as he navigates the dangers of coming out of retirement.

Brubaker (1980): Rated 7.1/10

One of Morgan Freeman’s earliest standout roles, “Brubaker,” presents him as an inmate in a brutal, corrupt prison system. While Robert Redford plays the titular warden determined to bring reform, Freeman’s performance as a seasoned prisoner brings authenticity to the film.

Now You See Me (2013): Rated 7.2/10

One highlight of 2013 Hollywood was Freeman’s role as Thaddeus Bradley, a former magician who now makes a living exposing the secrets behind magic tricks. Bradley works to uncover the mysteries orchestrated by the Four Horsemen, a group of illusionists pulling off bank heists during their performances.

Lean On Me (1989): Rated 7.4/10

Morgan Freeman went above and beyond in his portrayal of Joe Clark in the biopic “Lean on Me.” Freeman studied Clark’s mannerisms closely to portray his persona accurately. That dedication and unconventional methods added a natural energy to the role, earning him the NAACP Image Award.

Driving Miss Daisy (1989): Rated 7.4/10

In “Driving Miss Daisy,” Morgan Freeman embodies Hoke Colburn, a chauffeur hired to drive Daisy Werthan, portrayed by Jessica Tandy. Hoke’s resilience in the face of discrimination and evolving friendship with Miss Daisy were key to the movie’s success, earning him his first Golden Globe.

March Of The Penguins (2005): Rated 7.5/10

You’ve seen nature documentaries, but have you ever heard Morgan Freeman narrate the epic journey of penguins braving freezing temperatures to find love? Though it didn’t take home any acting trophies, this film did earn an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and Freeman’s narration? It’s the real MVP.

Lucky Number Slevin (2006): Rated 7.7/10

In this thriller, Morgan plays the formidable crime boss, The Boss, who’s tangled in a world of deception and betrayal. Freeman’s role adds depth to a film full of unexpected twists, where nothing is as it seems. With a solid 7.7/10 rating, the movie explores mistaken identity and clever manipulation.

Million Dollar Baby (2004): Rated 8.1/10

In “Million Dollar Baby,” Morgan Freeman shines as Eddie “Scrap-Iron” Dupris, a gym caretaker who narrates the story of an underdog female boxer’s rise and fall. His ability to work with Clint Eastwood’s Franke Dunn character and train Maggie made them a formidable trio. The performance got him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Batman Begins (2005): Rated 8.2/10

Being the first in the “Dark Knight” trilogy, this movie introduces us to Lucius Fox, the mind behind Wayne Enterprises’ tech innovations. Freeman’s portrayal shows his resourcefulness by formulating an antidote after Batman is attacked with a hallucinogen

The Dark Knight Rises (2012): Rated 8.4/10

In “The Dark Knight Rises,” Morgan Freeman reprises his role as Lucius Fox for the third time. Freeman’s continued portrayal of an authority figure and close ally of Wayne Enterprises makes this movie stand out. Although Fox and Bruce Wayne have slightly different views on morality, they forge a seamless partnership.

The Dark Knight (2008): Rated 9.0/10

Freeman’s second portrayal of Lucius Fox in “The Dark Knight” is arguably his acting tour de force. Most viewers will easily notice how his no-nonsense demeanor complements Bruce Wayne’s tough vigilante persona. The movie did so well that its $185 million budget fetched over $1 billion in box office revenue.

The Shawshank Redemption (1994): Rated 9.3/10

Morgan plays Ellis “Red” Redding, a seasoned inmate who befriends Andy Dufresne, a wrongly convicted banker. The character was originally written as a white Irishman. Still, producer Liz Glotzer suggested Freeman for the role, leading to a choice that would earn Freeman an Academy Award nomination.