The “perfect” movie Morgan Freeman and Billy Bob Thornton agree is the greatest ever made
Billy Bob Thornton and Morgan Freeman both admire the 1952 western *High Noon*, with Thornton calling it a “perfect movie”. Their shared praise highlights the film’s lasting reputation as a landmark of the genre and American cinema.
Thornton says he revisits the Gary Cooper film several times a month, while Freeman counts it among his all-time favourites alongside *The Outlaw Josey Wales*. *High Noon* received seven Academy Award nominations and won four, including Best Actor for Cooper; actor John Wayne was among its critics.
In short
- Thornton calls *High Noon* a perfect film.
- Freeman also ranks it among his favourites.
- The 1952 western won four of seven Oscars.
Explained simply
High Noon is a 1952 American western directed by Fred Zinnemann and starring Gary Cooper as Will Kane, a marshal preparing to leave his post on his wedding day. When he learns that an outlaw he once sent to prison is returning by train, Kane stays to face him and asks the townspeople for help.
The film is often discussed for its tense, real-time structure and its portrayal of duty and community under pressure. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards and won four, including Best Actor for Cooper; its reputation has endured, though it also drew criticism from figures including actor John Wayne.