Is Driving Miss Daisy a True Story? Ending Explained, Plot, Trailer and More
by Janani
Updated Jul 06, 2023
Driving Miss Daisy Movie
Driving Miss Daisy is a 1989 comedy-drama film directed by Bruce Beresford and written by Alfred Uhry. Starring Jessica Tandy, Morgan Freeman, and Dan Aykroyd, the film is based on Uhry's play of the same name. The story revolves around Daisy, exploring her life and experiences through various relationships and emotions over a span of twenty-five years.
Upon its release, Driving Miss Daisy received positive reviews from critics and achieved both critical and commercial success. It garnered nine nominations at the 62nd Academy Awards and won four, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Jessica Tandy, Best Makeup, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Notably, as of 2023, it remains the most recent PG-rated film to have won the prestigious Best Picture award.
Is Driving Miss Daisy a True Story?
Yes, Driving Miss Daisy is based on a true story. Inspired by the true story of his grandmother's relationship with her chauffeur, Alfred Uhry's play was adapted into a film in 1989. Uhry himself wrote the screenplay, which received the prestigious Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
In addition to this accomplishment, Uhry has also showcased his talent as a screenwriter in other notable films, including Mystic Pizza and Rich in Love. The story revolves around the relationship between an elderly Jewish woman named Daisy Werthan and her African-American chauffeur named Hoke Colburn. Driving Miss Daisy explores themes of race, prejudice, and friendship, but it is not based on real events or characters.
Driving Miss Daisy Plot
Set in Atlanta, Georgia in 1948, Driving Miss Daisy tells the story of Daisy Werthan, a 72-year-old Jewish widow and retired schoolteacher. After a car accident, Daisy's son, Boolie, hires Hoke Colburn, a 60-year-old black chauffeur, to drive her. Initially resistant, Daisy eventually forms a bond with Hoke as they spend time together.
As the years pass, Hoke becomes more than just a chauffeur. Daisy teaches him to read, and he helps with household tasks. The film explores themes of racism and antisemitism, highlighting the discrimination faced by both Hoke and Daisy. However, societal changes are happening, and Daisy attends a dinner where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gives a speech.
As time goes on, Daisy shows signs of dementia, and Hoke becomes her primary caregiver. Eventually, Daisy moves into a retirement home, and Hoke visits her regularly. The film concludes with a poignant Thanksgiving gathering where Hoke feeds Daisy pie, showcasing their enduring friendship. The final scene shows Hoke driving his black Cadillac on a road, symbolizing the journey they have shared.
Driving Miss Daisy Cast
Here is the list of the cast members of the movie Driving Miss Daisy.
Morgan Freeman
Hoke Colburn
Jessica Tandy
Daisy Werthan
Dan Aykroyd
Boolie Werthan
Patti LuPone
Florine Werthan
Esther Rolle
Idella
Joann Havrilla
Miss McClatchey
William Hall Jr.
Oscar
Muriel Moore
Miriam
Sylvia Kaler
Beulah
Crystal R. Fox
Katey Bell
Cast Name
Character Name
Driving Miss Daisy Ending Explained
In the final scene of the film, we find Miss Daisy suffering from dementia and residing in an elderly care facility. The home appears pleasant, with clean surroundings, beautiful furnishings, and an appetizing pie. However, witnessing a woman who once sought control over her life now dependent and unable to live in her own cherished home is truly heartbreaking.
Although Miss Daisy has lost much, she still has her faithful friend, Hoke, by her side. Visiting her is no easy task for Hoke, as he is now too old to drive and relies on taxis or his granddaughter for transportation. Despite the challenges, Hoke continues to visit her as an act of unwavering devotion.
During the poignant scene at the nursing home, we witness Miss Daisy's complete reliance on Hoke. He assists her in eating her pie, displaying the same kindness he has always shown her. This moment reveals how much she has depended on him throughout their relationship, even if she was too proud to admit it.
Through this touching scene of Hoke feeding Miss Daisy, our understanding of their relationship is reevaluated. We come to recognize the significant role Hoke has played, always acting with gentleness and patience. He has allowed Miss Daisy to maintain her independence for as long as possible, without ever being condescending or controlling. The final image of him driving her for the first time in the red Hudson automobile further emphasizes how he has treated her as "Miss" Daisy until the very end.
Driving Miss Daisy Trailer
Is Driving Miss Daisy a True Story? - FAQ
Yes, Driving Miss Daisy is based on a true story. Inspired by the true story of his grandmother's relationship with her chauffeur, Alfred Uhry's play was adapted into a film in 1989.
The film was directed by Bruce Beresford.
The screenplay was written by Alfred Uhry, based on his 1987 play of the same name.
The film stars Jessica Tandy, Morgan Freeman, and Dan Aykroyd. Morgan Freeman reprised his role from the original Off-Broadway production.
The story of "Driving Miss Daisy" explores Daisy and her perspective through a network of relationships and emotions, focusing on her home life, synagogue, friends, family, fears, and concerns over a twenty-five-year period.