Morgan Freeman Hails This Surprising Modern Film as “Perfect”

Morgan Freeman recently opened up about his favorite film of all time, revealing his admiration for Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 musical romance, Moulin Rouge.

The acclaimed actor described the film as “just an extraordinarily well done film. Editing, directing, costuming — just everything about it was perfect.” Freeman, widely respected for his work on screen, didn’t stop at praise for the technical aspects—he also highlighted the energy and creativity that made the movie stand out.

“I just think that movie is fabulous. What Baz Luhrmann did is really amazing… the dancing, the wardrobe, the music. People tend to fall on either side of that movie,” Freeman told reporters.

Indeed, Moulin Rouge has always divided audiences. Some viewers adore its flamboyant style, while others find it overwhelming.

Freeman argued that this polarization is actually a sign of true art. “I think when you have divided opinions like that, that’s the sign of art. It’s a work of art. It’s impressionable, and I think people tend to fall one way or the other because of that. I like the way Moulin Rouge! is edited. It has frantic energy to it.”

The film, directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman, was originally slated for a Christmas 2000 release but was pushed to summer 2001 to give Luhrmann more time in post-production. It premiered at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival on May 9 as the festival’s opening film.

Moulin Rouge opened in the United States at two theaters in New York and Los Angeles on May 18, 2001, earning over $167,000 in its opening weekend before expanding nationwide on June 1. The film eventually grossed $14.2 million in its first wide-release weekend, finishing fourth behind Pearl Harbor, Shrek, and The Animal. Internationally, the film earned over $121 million, including $26 million in the UK.

Critics generally praised Moulin Rouge for its visual style and the performances of its leads. Roger Ebert awarded the film 3.5 out of 4 stars, noting that “the movie is all color and music, sound and motion, kinetic energy, broad strokes, operatic excess.” Newsweek praised McGregor and Kidman, writing that “both stars hurl themselves into the movie’s reckless spirit, unafraid of looking foolish, adroitly attuned to Luhrmann’s abrupt swings from farce to tragedy. (And both sing well.)”

The New York Times described the film as “undeniably rousing” and noted that it would especially appeal to young audiences.

While opinions were mixed, many critics acknowledged its bold creativity. Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a 75% approval rating, with the consensus stating: “A love-it-or-hate-it experience, Moulin Rouge is all style, all giddy, over-the-top spectacle. But it’s also daring in its vision and wildly original.”

Metacritic scored it 66/100, signaling generally favorable reviews. Audiences responded positively too, with CinemaScore reporting a B+ grade. The film has since been recognized in several “best of” lists, including Empire’s 500 Greatest Movies of All Time and The New York Times’ “100 Best Movies of the 21st Century.”

For Freeman, Moulin Rouge remains a perfect example of what cinema can achieve. “People tend to fall on either side of that movie,” he said, but for him, its energy, creativity, and passion make it unforgettable.

I think it’s fascinating to see a modern musical hold such a revered place in Morgan Freeman’s heart. Moulin Rouge shows how bold visuals and daring storytelling can leave a lasting impression. What do you think, do you agree with Freeman’s choice? Share your thoughts in the comments.