Driving Miss Daisy

Set in the American South spanning the late 1940s to the early 1970s, Driving Miss Daisy follows Daisy Werthan, a sharp witted, elderly Jewish widow, and her long time chauffeur Hoke Colburn, a warm hearted Black man. After a frugal no-nonsense start, their working relationship gradually softens into a stubbornly loyal friendship that challenges social norms of the era. Over years, quarrels and roads taken together reveal common ground between two generations and backgrounds. As Daisy resists change while Hoke offers patience and quiet wisdom, the bond endures through medical scares, family pressures, and the slow pace of a changing world.

Directed by Bruce Beresford, the film adapts Alfred Uhry's stage play into a feature that emphasizes intimate performances and restrained humor. It marks Uhry's sharp, compassionate adaptation of his own work.

It grossed roughly $145,793,296 worldwide on a $7.5 million budget, a strong commercial return that reflected broad audience appeal and enduring relevance.

Driven by its quiet humor and humane treatment of serious subjects, the movie resonated beyond awards and box office. Critics highlighted Daisy and Hoke as unlikely companions whose friendship challenged stereotypes about race, aging, and independence in mid-century America.

Critics praised Tandy's performance and the film's humane tone, balancing humor with dignity. The themes include friendship across racial divides, the evolving South, duty and autonomy, and the quiet resilience required to see people beyond appearances.