Morgan Freeman‘s latest feature, “My Dead Friend Zoe,” has taken the cinematic world by storm, soaring to the top of Rotten Tomatoes rankings. Released in 2025, this film has captivated critics and audiences alike, bolstered by Freeman’s iconic presence and compelling storyline. The movie follows the journey of Merit, played by Sonequa Martin-Green, a veteran grappling with civilian life haunted by visions of a fallen comrade, Zoe, portrayed by Natalie Morales. The ensemble cast, featuring Ed Harris, Gloria Reuben, Thom Tran, and Utkarsh Ambudkar, brings depth and emotion to this narrative that resonates with its viewers.
“My Dead Friend Zoe” marks the directorial debut of Kyle Hausmann-Stokes, who co-wrote the screenplay with award-winning author A. J. Bermudez. Premiering at SXSW in 2024 before its 2025 theatrical release, the film has earned critical acclaim, achieving a remarkable 95% score from 65 critics on Rotten Tomatoes. This exceptional rating ties it with 1989’s “Glory” as the ninth highest-rated Morgan Freeman film on the platform.
Freeman, a revered figure in the film industry, began his career with roles in television before transitioning to feature films. He has received five Oscar nominations for performances in movies such as “Street Smart,” “Driving Miss Daisy,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Million Dollar Baby”—for which he won—and “Invictus.” Known for his distinctive voice and exceptional talent, Freeman has appeared in an array of successful blockbusters, including “The Dark Knight” trilogy, “Bruce Almighty,” “Deep Impact,” and the “Now You See Me” franchise. Among these films, “My Dead Friend Zoe” stands out as an extraordinary achievement, further cementing Freeman’s legacy in Hollywood.
Critics, including ScreenRant’s Patrice Witherspoon, have sung the praises of “My Dead Friend Zoe,” describing it as “a great watch with family and friends.” They highlight the film’s artistic direction and poignant score, which authentically convey themes of trauma and redemption. This indie gem has been likened to a comforting embrace, striking the perfect balance of style and substance.
Notably, many of Freeman’s top-rated projects on Rotten Tomatoes are documentaries that he has narrated, such as “March of the Penguins 2: The Next Step,” “Meeting the Beatles in India,” and “Born to Be Wild.” When considering only narrative features without documentary elements, “My Dead Friend Zoe” ranks as Freeman’s third-best-reviewed film, only eclipsed by “The LEGO Movie” and Clint Eastwood‘s “Unforgiven,” both rated at 96%.
The success of “My Dead Friend Zoe” not only elevates Morgan Freeman’s esteemed career but also highlights the powerful storytelling that the film industry continues to offer. As Freeman’s body of work continues to inspire, this remarkable addition is set to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. Its narrative of resilience and human connection may lead to more storytelling that challenges and moves viewers, shaping the cinematic landscape for years to come.
