Driving Miss Daisy (1989) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

An elderly Jewish widow living in Atlanta can no longer drive. Her son insists she allow him to hire a driver, which in the 1950s meant a black man. She resists any change in her life but, Hoke, the driver is hired by her son. She refuses to allow him to drive her anywhere at first, but Hoke slowly wins her over with his native good graces. The movie is directly taken from a stage play and does show it. It covers over twenty years of the pair's life together as they slowly build a relationship that transcends their differences.

Critical Acclaim

The release of Driving Miss Daisy in 1989 marked a significant moment in cinema, as it was met with widespread critical acclaim. The film, directed by Bruce Beresford and adapted from Alfred Uhry's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, captivated audiences with its poignant exploration of race and friendship in the American South. Critics lauded the film for its sensitive portrayal of the evolving relationship between the characters, played by Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman. The film's nuanced storytelling and understated direction resonated deeply, making it a standout release of the year.

Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times commended the film as "a delight" for its ability to tackle serious themes without resorting to melodrama, while Janet Maslin of The New York Times praised Tandy's performance as "superb," noting her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. In the years since its release, Driving Miss Daisy has maintained its critical standing, with a 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicative of its enduring appreciation. Modern critics continue to acknowledge the film's adept handling of the subjects of race and aging, as well as its warm portrayal of unexpected friendship.

Driving Miss Daisy's impact is evidenced by its significant achievements during the 1990 awards season, where it won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Jessica Tandy. The film's legacy endures as a cultural touchstone, often cited in discussions about films that address racial and social issues with grace and empathy. Its inclusion in various esteemed lists of influential films highlights its lasting influence on the genre, and it remains a powerful testament to the ability of film to bridge divides and illuminate the human condition.