Morgan Freeman Reveals the '70s Clint Eastwood Movie He Never Stops Watching

The partnership between Morgan Freeman and Clint Eastwood is recognized worldwide for its unique chemistry and success at awards shows, especially at the Oscars. Whenever Eastwood wins the 'Best Director' and 'Best Film' awards, Freeman is usually present in the cast, proving that when they work together, the combination is infallible. The first time they acted side by side was in 1992, in the acclaimed western "Unforgiven", directed by Eastwood from a script by David Webb Peoples. In the film, Eastwood plays Will, a former outlaw who tries to lead a peaceful life as a widower and father, while Freeman plays Ned, his former partner. The plot revolves around the search for revenge after a prostitute is brutally attacked, bringing the duo together for one last confrontation. The critical and commercial success of "Unforgiven" was remarkable, but it was only in 2004 that the two met again in "Menina de Ouro" (Million Dollar Baby). In this drama, Eastwood takes on the role of boxing trainer and Freeman his assistant, earning Eastwood the awards for 'Best Director' and 'Best Film', as well as the Oscar for 'Best Supporting Actor' for Freeman and 'Best Actress' for Hilary Swank. This trajectory reinforces that collaboration between the two is synonymous with quality and recognition. Morgan Freeman, in addition to being a close friend of Eastwood, is a declared admirer of the director's style. In an interview with RTE, Freeman highlighted that Clint is an "actors' director" who does not interfere with the acting, but rather with the general direction of the film. He explained that Eastwood trusts the actors to build their characters, while he takes care of the setting, camera positioning and lighting, creating an environment conducive to the interpretation flowing naturally. But, among Clint Eastwood's many memorable films - from his consecration in Sergio Leone's Dollars trilogy to his iconic anti-hero role in "Dirty Harry" - which one is Morgan Freeman's favorite? The answer is clear and passionate: "The Outlaw Josey Wales," released in 1976. Freeman revealed to Rotten Tomatoes that whenever he comes across this film while channel surfing, he feels the irresistible need to watch it, no matter what he's doing. This film, directed by and starring Eastwood, tells the story of Josey Wales, a farmer who, after losing his family during the American Civil War, becomes an outlaw seeking revenge. Along the way, he forms a new family among other outcasts while trying to escape bounty hunters. Although it only received one Oscar nomination, in the 'Best Original Score' category, "The Outlaw Josey Wales" is widely celebrated by critics and fans, consolidating itself as one of the most iconic characters in Eastwood's career. It is in this role that he demonstrates his unique ability to play the outlaw who maintains his dignity and determination in the face of adversity. Morgan Freeman's admiration for this film reveals not only his personal connection to Eastwood's work, but also highlights the cultural and artistic importance that "The Outlaw Josey Wales" maintains to this day. It is a fundamental piece in understanding Clint Eastwood's multifaceted career, both as an actor and as a director, and reinforces why Freeman considers this work indispensable in his personal filmography.