Driving Miss Daisy

Driving Miss Daisy

Year: 1989

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Bruce Beresford

DramaComedy

In Atlanta, elderly widow Daisy Werthan's life takes an unexpected turn after a car accident. Unable to drive, she reluctantly hires Hoke Colburn, an African-American man, as her chauffeur. Over two decades, a touching and unlikely friendship blossoms between them, challenging racial prejudices and societal expectations as they share life's experiences and create a bond that transcends differences.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Driving Miss Daisy (1989). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1948 - 1973

The narrative unfolds from the late 1940s through the early 1970s, a period marked by significant social change in the United States. This era saw the rise of the civil rights movement, which profoundly impacted society and individuals like Miss Daisy. The timeline emphasizes the evolving nature of personal relationships against the backdrop of a turbulent historical context.

Location

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, Georgia, serves as the backdrop for 'Driving Miss Daisy,' offering a glimpse into the life of its residents during the mid-20th century. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the city provides a setting that highlights both personal and societal challenges. The film captures the essence of Atlanta’s neighborhoods, illustrating the changing dynamics within them.

🏙️ City 🌳 Community

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

Main Characters – Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Meet the key characters of Driving Miss Daisy (1989), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Daisy Werthan (Jessica Tandy)

Daisy Werthan is a strong-willed 72-year-old Jewish widow who initially resists help in her daily life. As the story unfolds, her character's biases and vulnerabilities emerge, leading to a transformative journey of friendship with Hoke. Daisy embodies resilience and grace, learning to accept assistance while challenging her own beliefs.

👩‍🏫 Elderly 🎓 Wisdom

Hoke Colburn (Morgan Freeman)

Hoke Colburn is a patient and compassionate chauffeur who forms a deep bond with Miss Daisy. His calm demeanor and ability to navigate life's challenges demonstrate his strength of character. Hoke's evolution throughout the film reflects themes of dignity, respect, and the importance of connection across different backgrounds.

🚗 Chauffeur 🤝 Caring

Boolie Werthan (Dan Aykroyd)

Boolie Werthan, Daisy's son, is a pragmatic individual trying to ensure his mother’s well-being. He plays a critical role in encouraging the relationship between Daisy and Hoke. Boolie's actions illustrate the complexity of family dynamics and the challenges of caring for aging relatives in changing social circumstances.

👨‍👦 Family 💼 Business

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

Major Themes – Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Explore the central themes of Driving Miss Daisy (1989), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Friendship

At the heart of 'Driving Miss Daisy' is the evolving friendship between Miss Daisy and Hoke. Their relationship transitions from one of resistance to deep mutual respect and affection, showcasing how companionship can flourish despite societal barriers. This theme reflects the power of understanding and connection across racial divides.

🕰️ Aging

The film poignantly explores the theme of aging as Miss Daisy confronts the realities of growing older, including memory loss and vulnerability. Her journey emphasizes the wisdom and resilience that often accompany aging, as well as the profound impact of companionship. Hoke’s unwavering support highlights the importance of empathy and care in the later stages of life.

✊ Civil Rights

Set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement, 'Driving Miss Daisy' addresses the complexities of racial tensions and personal biases. Miss Daisy's experience with synagogue bomb threats symbolizes the larger societal struggles of the time. The film invites viewers to confront their own prejudices while showcasing moments of solidarity and hope amidst adversity.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

Unlock the Full Story of Driving Miss Daisy

Don't stop at just watching — explore Driving Miss Daisy in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Driving Miss Daisy is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Driving Miss Daisy Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Driving Miss Daisy, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Driving Miss Daisy Summary

Driving Miss Daisy Timeline

Track the full timeline of Driving Miss Daisy with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Driving Miss Daisy Timeline

More About Driving Miss Daisy

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Driving Miss Daisy: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Driving Miss Daisy

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