Morgan Freeman, widely celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, recently shared his candid opinions on two movie characters he found repugnant. The characters in question come from the 1997 film, *In the Company of Men*, directed by Neil LaBute.
Morgan Freeman’s Critique of *In the Company of Men*
In the film, Freeman took issue with the characters played by Aaron Eckhart as Chad and Matt Malloy as Howard. These two colleagues, tasked with a corporate assignment, devise a cruel plan to manipulate a woman while knowingly hurting her feelings. Freeman’s comments reveal his strong disdain for the portrayal of these characters.
“Scuzzy Guys” and Their Deeds
Freeman described Chad and Howard as “scuzzy guys” and bluntly stated, “Man, they were turds.” His words reflect not only his disappointment with the characters but also his broader critique of the film’s moral undertones.
Background on Morgan Freeman’s Career
While Freeman’s career began over 25 years before *In the Company of Men*, it was his role as the ruthless pimp Leo ‘Fast Black’ Smalls in the 1987 crime thriller *Street Smart* that marked his significant breakthrough. This performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor at age 50.
Reflections on His Roles
Freeman has noted a preference for playing more complex villains. However, he acknowledges that roles like those of Chad and Howard are rare. His dislike for these specific characters indicates his desire for more meaningful portrayals that resonate with his established persona.
Conclusion
Freeman’s criticism of the movie reveals his high standards for character representation in cinema. By labeling Chad and Howard as turds, he not only critiques their actions but also calls attention to the importance of morality in storytelling.
