Watch Great Performances: Driving Miss Daisy

Great Performances is an award-winning television series produced by PBS. It presents a diverse range of performing arts from around the world, including theater, dance, music, and opera. One of the most popular editions of the series is Great Performances: Driving Miss Daisy, a heartwarming comedy-drama that portrays the unlikely bond between an elderly Jewish woman and her African American chauffeur.

Adapted from Alfred Uhry's Pulitzer Prize-winning stage play of the same name, the film is set in Atlanta, Georgia, in the mid-20th century. The story centers on Daisy Werthan, a stubborn and independent widower who lives alone in her comfortable home. Daisy has just had a car accident, and her adult son, Boolie, decides to hire someone to drive her around town. Hoke Colburn, an amiable and uneducated driver, is hired for the job. Initially, Daisy is resentful of Hoke and his chatty personality, but gradually, the two develop a warm friendship that transcends their racial and class differences.

The strength of Driving Miss Daisy is its subtle and skillful exploration of race relations in the American South. Daisy and Hoke come from different backgrounds and social strata, but they share a common humanity that enables them to connect in a profound way. The film depicts the challenges and joys of their relationship with humor and tenderness, as they navigate through the turbulent era of the Civil Rights movement. Daisy's initial reluctance to accept Hoke as her driver can be seen as a metaphor for the racial prejudices and elitism that were pervasive in the society of the day. However, through their interactions and experiences, Daisy and Hoke learn to respect and appreciate each other, and their growing fondness becomes a source of comfort and companionship for both.

Great Performances: Driving Miss Daisy boasts a superb cast and talented crew. The lead roles are played by veteran actors Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, who bring depth, nuance, and warmth to their characters. Jessica Tandy is captivating as Daisy, conveying her wit, vulnerability, and stubbornness with subtlety and grace. Morgan Freeman, in turn, is outstanding as Hoke, bringing to life the character's gentle demeanor, wry humor, and quiet strength. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable and genuine, and their on-screen interactions are a joy to watch.

The filmmakers have also captured the ambiance and visual style of the period with accuracy and attention to detail. The film features stunning cinematography that showcases the beauty of the Southern landscape, as well as meticulous production design that recreates the mood and tone of the era. The soundtrack, featuring a selection of classic Jazz and Blues tunes, perfectly complements the story and adds to the film's charm and authenticity.

Overall, Great Performances: Driving Miss Daisy is a timeless classic that stands out for its universal themes, powerful performances, and impeccable craftsmanship. It's a poignant and entertaining movie that invites the viewer to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of empathy and compassion. Whether you're a fan of drama, comedy, or history, this film is sure to delight and move you.

Great Performances: Driving Miss Daisy is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between July 17, 2015 and on PBS