Morgan Freeman's Best Thriller Movies: A Must-See List

Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you're a huge fan of thrillers – those movies that keep you on the edge of your seat, guessing until the very end. And when it comes to thrillers, there's one actor who always delivers: Morgan Freeman. His commanding presence, that unmistakable voice, and his ability to portray both wisdom and vulnerability make him a perfect fit for the genre. So, let's dive into some of Morgan Freeman's absolute best thriller movies that you need to add to your watch list ASAP.

1. Seven (Se7en)

Okay, let's kick things off with a classic, shall we? Seven (stylized as Se7en) is a neo-noir crime thriller that's not just one of Morgan Freeman's best, but one of the greatest thrillers ever made, period. Freeman plays Detective William Somerset, a seasoned, world-weary detective on the verge of retirement. He's partnered with the young and idealistic Detective David Mills, played by Brad Pitt. Together, they're tasked with solving a series of gruesome murders based on the seven deadly sins.

What makes Seven so captivating? First, the atmosphere is incredibly dark and gritty. The city is perpetually shrouded in rain and shadows, creating a sense of unease that permeates every scene. The killer, John Doe, is a chillingly intelligent and methodical psychopath who believes he's cleansing the world of sin. His elaborate and horrifying crimes are designed to shock and disgust, forcing the detectives (and the audience) to confront the darkest aspects of human nature. Freeman's performance is the anchor of the film. He brings a quiet gravitas and intelligence to Somerset, a man who has seen too much and is desperate to find some meaning in the madness. He acts as a mentor to Mills, trying to temper his impulsive nature and guide him through the investigation. The chemistry between Freeman and Pitt is electric, creating a compelling dynamic between the two detectives. As they delve deeper into the case, Somerset begins to question his own beliefs and the nature of good and evil. He's forced to confront the depravity of humanity and the futility of his efforts to make a difference. The film's ending is one of the most shocking and unforgettable in cinematic history. It's a gut-wrenching culmination of the themes of sin, justice, and the human condition. Seven is not an easy film to watch, but it's a masterpiece of the thriller genre that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The film masterfully blends elements of crime procedural, psychological horror, and philosophical exploration, making it a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. It's a must-see for any fan of thrillers, and a testament to Morgan Freeman's incredible talent.

2. Kiss the Girls

Next up, we have Kiss the Girls, a suspenseful thriller where Morgan Freeman takes on the role of Dr. Alex Cross, a forensic psychologist and detective. This movie showcases Freeman's ability to play a brilliant and determined investigator with a personal stake in the case. Dr. Cross is on the hunt for a serial kidnapper who calls himself "Casanova," who abducts intelligent and beautiful young women. When Cross's niece becomes one of Casanova's victims, the case becomes deeply personal, fueling his relentless pursuit.

Kiss the Girls stands out because of its intricate plot and the cat-and-mouse game between Dr. Cross and Casanova. The film keeps you guessing as Cross pieces together the clues, trying to understand the kidnapper's motives and predict his next move. Freeman portrays Cross as a man of intellect and empathy, deeply affected by the suffering of the victims and their families. He's not just a detective solving a case; he's a compassionate human being driven by a desire to bring justice and closure. The suspense is palpable throughout the film, as the audience is constantly wondering where Casanova will strike next and whether Dr. Cross will be able to save the kidnapped women. The film also explores the psychology of both the victims and the perpetrator, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Ashley Judd delivers a strong performance as Kate McTiernan, one of Casanova's victims who manages to escape and becomes a crucial ally to Dr. Cross. Her resilience and determination to help bring Casanova to justice are inspiring. Kiss the Girls is a well-crafted thriller that combines suspense, mystery, and psychological depth. It's a testament to Morgan Freeman's versatility as an actor and his ability to command the screen. If you're looking for a thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end, Kiss the Girls is definitely worth watching. The film's success led to a sequel, Along Came a Spider, where Freeman reprised his role as Dr. Alex Cross, further solidifying the character's place in the thriller genre. The movie has several layers of complexity, which makes it very enjoyable. This complexity comes in the form of a plot twist.

3. Along Came a Spider

Speaking of Along Came a Spider, let's talk about it! This is the sequel to Kiss the Girls, and Morgan Freeman once again steps into the shoes of Dr. Alex Cross. This time, he's tasked with solving the kidnapping of Megan Rose, the daughter of a U.S. senator, from a highly secure private school. The kidnapper, Gary Soneji, is a brilliant and manipulative criminal who seems to be always one step ahead of the authorities.

Along Came a Spider is a more fast-paced and action-oriented thriller than its predecessor. The film is filled with twists and turns as Dr. Cross races against time to find Megan and unravel Soneji's elaborate plan. Freeman brings his signature intelligence and determination to the role, making Dr. Cross a compelling and believable protagonist. He's a man driven by a sense of justice and a desire to protect the innocent. The film also introduces a new character, Agent Jezzie Flannigan, played by Monica Potter, who is assigned to protect Megan but feels responsible for her kidnapping. Jezzie joins forces with Dr. Cross, and together they work to track down Soneji and rescue Megan. The dynamic between Freeman and Potter is engaging, as they learn to trust each other and rely on their respective skills to solve the case. Along Came a Spider is a suspenseful and entertaining thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. It's a great example of how a sequel can build upon the success of the original while still offering something new and exciting. The film explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to for power and revenge. It's a must-see for fans of Morgan Freeman and the Dr. Alex Cross series. The movie has a great script, a story with several layers, and the actors act very well. The development of the scenes is very well planned.

4. Lucky Number Slevin

Now for something a little different, let's check Lucky Number Slevin. While not a traditional thriller in the same vein as Seven or Kiss the Girls, this film is a neo-noir crime thriller with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Morgan Freeman plays The Boss, one of two rival crime lords in New York City. He's a powerful and ruthless figure who is locked in a deadly feud with The Rabbi, played by Ben Kingsley.

Lucky Number Slevin is a stylish and intricate film with a non-linear narrative that keeps you on your toes. The story revolves around Slevin Kelevra, played by Josh Hartnett, who arrives in New York City and is mistaken for someone else. He gets caught in the middle of the war between The Boss and The Rabbi, and must figure out how to survive and clear his name. Freeman's performance as The Boss is both menacing and charismatic. He exudes an aura of power and control, but also hints at a hidden vulnerability. He's a complex character who is driven by revenge and a desire to maintain his position at the top of the criminal underworld. The film is filled with witty dialogue, unexpected plot twists, and memorable characters. It's a clever and entertaining thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Lucky Number Slevin is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of a well-crafted narrative to surprise and delight the audience. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Bruce Willis as Mr. Goodkat, a mysterious assassin who plays a key role in the unfolding events. Lucy Liu adds a touch of charm and wit as Lindsey, Slevin's quirky neighbor who gets caught up in the chaos. The film is a very good recommendation and many people like it. The plot of the film is very good and has several unexpected details.

5. Oblivion

Alright, let's jump into the sci-fi realm with Oblivion. While it's primarily a science fiction film, Oblivion incorporates elements of mystery and suspense that make it a thrilling ride. Morgan Freeman plays Beech, the leader of a group of human survivors fighting against an alien force. He's a wise and enigmatic figure who holds the key to unlocking the truth about the past and the future of humanity.

Oblivion is set in a post-apocalyptic future where Earth has been ravaged by war. Jack Harper, played by Tom Cruise, is a technician who is tasked with maintaining drones that protect resource-gathering operations. As Jack begins to uncover secrets about his past and the true nature of the world around him, he encounters Beech and joins the resistance movement. Freeman brings a sense of gravitas and authority to the role of Beech. He's a mentor figure to Jack, guiding him on his journey of self-discovery and helping him to understand the importance of fighting for what's right. The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and futuristic technology. It's a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as identity, memory, and the nature of reality. Oblivion is a thrilling and visually impressive film that will leave you pondering the future of humanity. It's a great example of how science fiction can be used to explore complex themes and ask important questions about our place in the universe. The movie is great, and many people love the duo Tom Cruise and Morgan Freeman. The effects of the film were very well done. The setting of the movie is spectacular.

So there you have it, folks! My top picks for Morgan Freeman's best thriller movies. From the dark and gritty world of Seven to the suspenseful mysteries of Kiss the Girls and the sci-fi thrills of Oblivion, Morgan Freeman has consistently delivered captivating performances that have kept us on the edge of our seats. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a thrilling movie night with the one and only Morgan Freeman! You won't regret it!