‘We Clutched Each Other’: Matt Damon Reveals Good Will Hunting Line Robin Williams Crafted That Left Him And The Director Shook

‘We Clutched Each Other’: Matt Damon Reveals Good Will Hunting Line Robin Williams Crafted That Left Him And The Director Shook

As a gamer who grew up in the ’90s and had the privilege of witnessing the cinematic brilliance that was Good Will Hunting, I can confidently say that this movie holds a special place in my heart. The performances, the storyline, and the unexpected moments of pure magic were all masterfully woven together by a cast and crew that seemed to be operating on a different level.


In the realm of Hollywood, “Good Will Hunting” catapulted Matt Damon and Ben Affleck into fame, but it also marked a pivotal point in Robin Williams’ career. His exceptional portrayal of the tenacious therapist, challenging audience perceptions of his acting abilities beyond comedy, earned him an Academy Award – his only one. Now, as 27 years have passed since this ’90s gem was unveiled, Matt Damon shared insights into the remarkable talent of the “Mrs. Doubtfire” star in a memorable backstage tale from the set of “Good Will Hunting”.

In honor of Robin Williams’ birthday and the 10th anniversary of his passing, Vanity Fair gathered heartfelt recollections and anecdotes from some of the actor’s most intimate co-stars from the film “Aladdin”. These reminiscences often focused on his kindness off-screen, such as when he consoled Sally Field on set following her father’s demise. Matt Damon, however, opted to recall a moment of screen brilliance, a line penned by the legendary comedian that left both Damon and the film director awestruck during the making of “The Martian”.

1. He penned down the final scene in the film. Initially, he followed the script for the first few attempts, but then he stepped out and read a note that said: “Curse it, he’s taken my line!” Gus was beside me at the time; we embraced tightly. Incredible! That moment was one of the stunning outcomes of that brilliant mind.

The improvised line is regarded as one of the best Robin Williams quotes.

It is a callback to his character, Sean Maguire, opening up to Will Hunting about how he ditched a Red Sox playoff game to go find his future wife, saying “I just slid my ticket across the table, and I said, ‘Sorry, guys; I gotta see about a girl.” Real Bostonians will understand how big a deal that is. Then, at the end of the movie, his mentee repeats the line back, in a full circle moment.

Indeed, it seems that Maguire’s renowned response primarily stemmed from Williams, as his innate reactions surfaced, demonstrating a profound comprehension of the intricate relationship between the two characters.

I can easily visualize young Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, their jaws dropping in disbelief, overwhelmed with sheer luck, knowing they had stumbled upon an extraordinarily gifted individual who dared to trust them.

The actor from Jumanji, evidently a dedicated artist, constantly strived for his finest performance possible. As stated by director Gus Van Sant, this persistence occasionally proved challenging as Williams was often eager to record yet another take, and another, and still another.

Yet, this instance serves as an illustration of faith in the creative flow, particularly with regard to the acting process of the star from “Good Morning, Vietnam.” If Van Sant had ceased recording lines, we wouldn’t have enjoyed that flawless joke!

Remarkable scenes such as those found in fantastic films by Robin Williams stand out. As the leaves turn and school resumes, it serves as a reminder that it’s time to revisit this timeless masterpiece, now accessible with a Max subscription. If you happen to be in Boston, don’t forget to visit the Good Will Hunting bench – who knows, you might even spot Matt Damon sitting there!

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2024-09-01 02:39