#matt_damon

Devyn Dalton: The 4-Foot-5 Stuntwoman Behind Matt Damon’s Epic Journey in The Odyssey Devyn Dalton, a 4-foot-5 stuntwoman known for her extraordinary physicality and dedication, has become a standout figure in the film The Odyssey, where she played a pivotal role as Matt Damon’s stunt double. Her work on the project, which features intense action sequences and a blend of physical and emotional storytelling, has brought her into the spotlight, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of stuntwomen in Hollywood. Dalton’s performance, particularly in scenes where she appears to be battling towering figures, has sparked curiosity about her training and the challenges she faced to achieve such feats. Dalton’s career began right out of high school, when she landed a role in Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), marking her entry into the world of stunt work. The role required her to undergo three weeks of rigorous “ape training,” during which she learned to move and act on all fours, a physically demanding process that laid the foundation for her future work. Her ability to merge acting with physicality became a hallmark of her career, earning her roles in subsequent Planet of the Apes films, including War for the Planet of the Apes (2017), where she portrayed Cornelius. She also contributed to scenes as Caesar in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, showcasing her versatility as both an actor and a stunt performer. Beyond her work in the Apes franchise, Dalton has built a diverse resume that includes roles in The Last of Us and Godzilla, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled and dedicated performer.#the_odyssey #matt_damon #devyn_dalton #rise_of_the_planet_of_the_apes #war_for_the_planet_of_the_apes

Greek Translator Criticizes Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ for Missing Homer Themes The release of Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey has sparked both celebration and scholarly debate, with Greek translator Emily Wilson expressing mixed feelings about the film’s approach to the ancient epic. While acknowledging the movie’s success in bringing renewed attention to the poem, Wilson highlighted concerns that key themes from Homer’s work were overlooked in favor of a modernized narrative. The film, which grossed over $260 million in its opening weekend, has been praised for its grand scale and visual style, but critics like Wilson argue it fails to capture the depth of the original text. Wilson, whose 2017 translation of Homer’s Odyssey reached the top five on Amazon.com, noted that the film’s popularity has boosted sales of similar works, including her own edition. She praised the movie for introducing the epic to a wider audience but expressed disappointment with its handling of central themes. “I want to celebrate the fact that so many more people are aware of The Odyssey and were brought back to the poem,” she told the Associated Press. “But at the same time, I had the sense that Christopher Nolan was trying to pack everything in while missing themes that were essential to the poem.” The film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as his wife Penelope, and Tom Holland as their son Telemachus. Critics have lauded the performances, the IMAX cinematography, and the film’s attempt to blend ancient Greek sensibilities with modern storytelling. However, scholars like Wilson and translator Daniel Mendelsohn have raised questions about the adaptation’s fidelity to Homer’s original vision.#the_odyssey #matt_damon #anne_hathaway #christopher_nolan #emily_wilson

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Makes Strong Box Office Debut Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey has launched with impressive momentum, securing a $51.2 million opening weekend in North America from 3,900 screens, including Thursday previews. The film, starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, is projected to surpass $120 million domestically, positioning it as the biggest live-action debut of 2026 and the top R-rated opening of the year. Universal Pictures’ ambitious project, with a $250 million production budget, was initially targeting a mid-$80 million to $100 million domestic launch, making its early performance a significant success. Globally, The Odyssey is expected to gross $257.8 million for the summer weekend, with $137.3 million from 73 international markets. This marks a stronger start than anticipated, bolstered by its unique production approach. The film is the first Nolan feature shot entirely on IMAX cameras, a decision that has drawn enthusiastic responses from audiences. Cinemagoers have flocked to 25 U.S. theaters screening IMAX 70mm film, with the film targeting $30 million from IMAX screens domestically and an additional $22 million internationally. The film’s cast includes Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron, who portray key characters in Odysseus’ journey to reclaim his throne and reunite with his wife, Penelope. Nolan and Emma Thomas produce the film through Syncopy, with the project emphasizing its commitment to premium large-format cinematography. The Odyssey is also poised to become Nolan’s highest-grossing global opener, surpassing The Dark Knight Rises’ $249 million worldwide launch.#universal_pictures #the_odyssey #matt_damon #imax #christopher_nolan

The Odyssey's Matt Damon Reveals Improvised Trojan Horse Scene Filming Process Matt Damon, who plays Odysseus in The Odyssey, described how the iconic Trojan Horse sequence was filmed without prior planning. According to Damon, Christopher Nolan, the film’s director, had no clear idea of how to execute the scene until the day of shooting. During a conversation with GamesRadar+, Damon recounted the situation: “I said, ‘We’re doing the Trojan Horse tomorrow. How are you going to do that?’ And Chris just goes, ‘I don’t know.’” Damon added that Nolan’s response was a surprise, as the director admitted he didn’t have a plan. “We’re just going to cram in there and figure it out,” Damon quoted Nolan as saying. Damon highlighted Nolan’s improvisational approach, noting that the director’s method felt like working on an independent film despite the project’s large budget. “There’s this thing that he does that is so incredible, which is he understands all of these elements that he’s going to need, but he’s not prescriptive about it,” Damon explained. This approach, Damon said, gave the production a sense of spontaneity, as if they were shooting on a smaller scale. The actual filming of the scene involved the cast and crew working together in real time. Damon described the process: “We literally got in there, me and the guys jammed in, and Chris jammed in with [cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema]—Hoyt had the camera—and we figured it out.” The director and cinematographer were positioned close to the action, allowing them to build the scene’s claustrophobic atmosphere organically. “That feeling of claustrophobia, that was all just developing in real time,” Damon said.#the_odyssey #matt_damon #christopher_nolan #gamesradar #hoyte_van_hoytema

The Odyssey World Tour Unveils Trojan Horse in New York City The Odyssey world tour arrived in New York City on Tuesday night, transforming Lincoln Square into a dramatic spectacle with a star-studded red carpet, military-style security, and a massive 40-foot Trojan Horse prop. The statue, central to the film’s plot, serves as the vessel through which Odysseus (played by Matt Damon) and his crew execute their secret attack on Troy, marking the start of their journey home. Christopher Nolan and his team constructed the horse as part of the film’s production, with the director himself participating in its creation. During a press event, John Leguizamo, who portrays Odysseus’ loyal companion Eumaeus, described his surprise upon learning that Nolan had been inside the horse during filming. “I was looking for Chris Nolan to meet him, and they told me he was inside the horse with 20 actors and the DP [Hoyte van Hoytema] and the IMAX camera. I couldn’t believe that. I was like, wow, this man is a leader,” Leguizamo said to The Hollywood Reporter. Damon, who walked the NYC red carpet alongside Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong’o, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal, shared insights about filming the Trojan Horse sequence. During a press run, he revealed that Nolan had no premeditated plan for the scene, instead instructing the cast and crew to “cram in there and figure it out.” Damon described the process as capturing the “claustrophobia” of the moment, with cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema and the IMAX camera operating in real time. “Hoyte was looking through the lens, and Chris was right next to him. They just built that in real time. It was so cool to see. If we had planned it out, I don’t think it would have had that same energy,” Damon told GamesRadar+.#universal_studios_hollywood #matt_damon #chris_nolan #odyssey_world_tour #lincoln_square

India is showing the future is in theatres, says The Odyssey team Christopher Nolan, joined by producer Emma Thomas, actors Matt Damon and Tom Holland, spoke about the unprecedented scale of The Odyssey and how IMAX technology allows audiences to "live inside" the film. The press conference, held in Mumbai, highlighted the challenges of adapting Homer’s epic, the logistical hurdles of filming across multiple countries, and the emotional depth of the story. Nolan, known for films like Inception, Interstellar, and Oppenheimer, described The Odyssey as his most ambitious project to date, emphasizing its unique blend of scale and narrative complexity. Nolan, alongside his wife and producer Emma Thomas, revealed that the decision to premiere the film in India was driven by the country’s deep appreciation for cinema. During his previous visits, he noted the enduring passion of Indian audiences, a sentiment echoed by Thomas, who remarked that India is proving the future of cinema lies in theaters. The pandemic had initially disrupted plans to showcase Tenet in India, but the team’s return to the region for The Odyssey marked a significant milestone. The production of The Odyssey involved filming across Morocco, Greece, Italy, Iceland, and other locations, with each set piece requiring months of meticulous planning. Unlike Nolan’s previous films, which often centered on a single complex sequence, The Odyssey demanded a series of interconnected challenges. Thomas described the experience as a relentless cycle of completing one scene only to face another, underscoring the film’s logistical intensity. The international crew, spanning multiple countries, played a crucial role in bringing the epic to life, with Nolan praising their dedication as "extraordinary.#mumbai #matt_damon #tom_holland #christopher_nolan #emma_thomas

Critics Hail Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' as His 'Absolute Best' Christopher Nolan's adaptation of Homer's epic Odyssey has sparked widespread critical acclaim, with many calling it one of the filmmaker’s finest works. The film, set for a July 17 theatrical release, is an ambitious reimagining of the ancient Greek myth, blending grand scale with intimate storytelling. The ensemble cast includes Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, and several other prominent actors. Early screenings for critics and industry insiders have generated significant buzz, with reactions ranging from effusive praise to cautious reservations. The film’s technical achievements have been a major talking point. Critics lauded its commitment to in-camera cinematography using new IMAX cameras, describing it as a "colossal achievement of scale" even by Nolan’s standards. One reviewer noted the film’s "breathtaking set pieces" and "staggering technical feat," emphasizing its ability to balance epic scope with emotional intimacy. The storytelling is framed as a "postwar disillusion" narrative, focusing on themes of loss of innocence, leadership, and the eternal struggle between mortals and gods. Matt Damon’s portrayal of Odysseus was hailed as a "screen command" that captures the character’s complexity, while Anne Hathaway’s performance as Penelope was praised for its emotional depth. Tom Holland’s role as Telemachus, a coming-of-age journey, was seen as a promising step in his career, though not without criticism. Several critics highlighted specific scenes as standout moments. The cyclops and Circe sequences were described as among the best of Nolan’s career, with one reviewer calling the interpretation of Greek mythology "electrifyingly uncanny.#matt_damon #robert_pattinson #tom_holland #anne_hathaway #christopher_nolan

Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey' Receives Ecstatic Early Reviews Christopher Nolan’s three-hour adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey, titled The Odyssey, premiered in London on Monday night, sparking immediate critical acclaim and positioning itself as a potential Oscar contender. Following its world premiere and early screenings in the U.S., critics have praised the film’s scale, production design, and performances, with many calling it a defining achievement in Nolan’s career. The film, shot entirely using large-format Imax cameras, will also be shown in non-Imax theaters, though its visual grandeur has already drawn widespread attention. The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw described the film as “a colossal origin-myth story of postwar disillusion and a loss of innocence witnessed by the dead,” highlighting its thematic depth. IndieWire editor-at-large Anne Thompson hailed it as the “best picture contender to beat,” predicting Matt Damon could win best actor for his role as Odysseus. She praised the film’s “stunningly mounted” production, emphasizing its emotional and visual impact. Erik Davis of IndieWire called The Odyssey “an absolute triumph and a crowning cinematic achievement” from Nolan, noting that the film represents the culmination of his work with Imax technology. Davis praised the film’s “incredible production design,” “breathtaking action,” and “unlike anything he’s done before.” He also highlighted Nolan’s embrace of horror elements, describing moments as “genuinely unsettling” while maintaining the story’s humanity. Davis singled out Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the villainous Antinous, calling it “so conniving, manipulative, and endlessly entertaining to watch,” and noted it as one of Pattinson’s finest performances.#the_odyssey #matt_damon #tom_holland #christopher_nolan #chris_todd_nolan

Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' Unveils Final Trailer Ahead of July 17 Theatrical Release Universal Pictures has officially released the final trailer for Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey, providing an in-depth preview of the epic’s cinematic journey. The trailer, which debuted ahead of the film’s theatrical release on July 17, centers on Matt Damon’s portrayal of Odysseus, the legendary king of Ithaca, as he navigates a perilous decade-long voyage home following the Trojan War. The footage opens with the iconic line, “My journey ends where it began — at home,” underscoring the emotional weight of Odysseus’ quest to reclaim his life and family. The trailer weaves together some of the most iconic scenes from Homer’s ancient epic, including Odysseus’ harrowing encounter with the Cyclops Polyphemus, his struggle against the enchanting song of the Sirens, and the climactic showdown with the suitors who have taken over his palace. These moments are rendered with Nolan’s signature visual grandeur, emphasizing both the mythological scale of the story and the personal sacrifices of its protagonist. The film also delves into the emotional stakes of Odysseus’ reunion with his wife, Penelope, portrayed by Anne Hathaway, and his son, Telemachus, played by Tom Holland. The ensemble cast includes Robert Pattinson as Antinous, the most ruthless of Penelope’s suitors, and Zendaya as the goddess Athena, alongside Charlize Theron as the enchantress Circe. Additional cast members such as Jon Bernthal, Lupita Nyong’o, Benny Safdie, Himesh Patel, Mia Goth, John Leguizamo, Samantha Morton, Elliot Page, Corey Hawkins, Bill Irwin, and Will Yun Lee bring depth to the narrative’s mythological and human elements.#universal_pictures #matt_damon #tom_holland #anne_hathaway #christopher_nolan

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Trailer Sparks Debate Over Modern Accents in Ancient Epic The latest trailer for Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey, released by Universal Pictures, has ignited mixed reactions among audiences. While some praised the film’s grand scale and visual ambition, others criticized the use of contemporary American accents and dialogue, which they argue clash with the historical setting of ancient Greece. The trailer, which offers the most detailed glimpse yet of the long-awaited project, has drawn both praise and controversy on social media platforms like X and Reddit. The film follows Odysseus (played by Matt Damon), the mythical king of Ithaca, as he navigates his perilous journey home after the Trojan War. His story is intertwined with his son Telemachus (Tom Holland), his wife Penelope (Anne Hathaway), and the suitors vying for Penelope’s hand, including Antinous (Robert Pattinson). Nolan has described the project as “Not just a story, but the story,” emphasizing its epic scope. However, the trailer’s use of American accents has sparked significant backlash. Many viewers expressed surprise at the characters’ speech patterns, which they found anachronistic. For instance, Odysseus is heard rallying troops with the line, “Let’s go!” while Tom Holland and Robert Pattinson, both British actors, are also depicted with American accents. One user remarked, “People complain about the armor being historically inaccurate. But at least they nailed Odysseus’ Boston accent,” while another criticized the use of the phrase “My dad is coming home,” calling it “out of place in a sword and sandals movie with this much gravitas.” The dialogue has also drawn scrutiny for its modern phrasing.#universal_pictures #matt_damon #robert_pattinson #tom_holland #christopher_nolan

The Final 3 SNL Hosts & Musical Guests for Season 51 Have Been Revealed The final three episodes of Saturday Night Live Season 51 have been officially announced, featuring a lineup of high-profile hosts and musical guests. The season concludes with three star-studded performances, each bringing a unique blend of comedy, music, and cultural relevance. The episodes will air on May 2, May 9, and May 16, marking the end of the 2025-2026 season. The May 2 episode will be hosted by Olivia Rodrigo, the 23-year-old pop sensation who is making her debut as an SNL host. Rodrigo will also serve as the musical guest for the episode, following in the footsteps of previous artists like Harry Styles. This marks her third appearance as a musical guest on the show, having previously performed in Seasons 46 and 49. The episode will coincide with the release of her upcoming studio album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love, set to drop on June 12. The May 9 episode will feature actor Matt Damon as the host, marking his third time hosting SNL. Damon, known for his role in the Ocean’s Eleven franchise, will be joined by singer-songwriter Noah Kahan as the musical guest. Damon’s new film, The Odyssey, is set to premiere in theaters on July 17, adding a cinematic element to the episode. Kahan, a rising indie artist, will bring his signature blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks to the stage. The season finale on May 16 will be a historic double feature, with Will Ferrell and Paul McCartney serving as the host and musical guest, respectively. Ferrell, a longtime SNL cast member from Seasons 21 to 27, will return to the iconic Studio 8H for his fifth hosting gig. His presence is a nostalgic nod to his early career, as he was part of the Five-Timers Club, a group of SNL alumni who have hosted the show multiple times.#matt_damon #olivia_ridgo #will_ferrell #paul_mccartney #noah_kahan

Saturday Night Live Unveils Final Season 51 Schedule with Star-Studded Lineup The NBC sketch comedy series "Saturday Night Live" has officially announced its schedule for the final three episodes of Season 51, marking a high-profile sendoff for the long-running show. The lineup includes a mix of returning stars and rising talents, with several high-profile names set to take the stage as hosts and musical guests. The season finale will feature Will Ferrell, a former cast member, and Paul McCartney, the legendary Beatle, in what promises to be a memorable closing episode. The season’s final episodes will air on May 2, May 9, and May 16, with each episode featuring a unique combination of hosts and musical acts. On May 2, Olivia Rodrigo will make her debut as a host, a first for the pop star, while also performing as the musical guest. This will be Rodrigo’s third appearance on the show as a performer but her first time stepping into the hosting role. Her third studio album, You Seem Pretty Sad For a Girl So In Love, is set to release on June 12, adding anticipation for her performance. The week after, on May 9, Matt Damon will host the show for the third time, with Noah Kahan as the musical guest. Damon’s hosting episode will precede his leading role in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey, scheduled for release in July. Kahan, who previously appeared as a musical guest, will make his second appearance on the show following the release of his new album, The Great Divide, on April 24. The season finale on May 16 will be hosted by Will Ferrell, marking his sixth time hosting the show and his first appearance since 2019. Ferrell, a former cast member, has become a regular host in recent years, bringing his comedic flair to the stage.#matt_damon #saturday_night_live #olivia_ridgo #will_ferrell #paul_mccartney

Olivia Rodrigo, Matt Damon & Will Ferrell To Host 'SNL' In May NBC has announced a series of high-profile late-night specials to conclude its 51st season, with Olivia Rodrigo, Matt Damon, and Will Ferrell set to host the network’s flagship comedy sketch show, Saturday Night Live (SNL). The three back-to-back episodes will air in May, marking a significant milestone for each host and musical guest. Rodrigo will open the season finale stretch on May 2, making her debut as a host while returning as a musical guest for the third time. Damon will host on May 9, his third time in the role, with musical guest Noah Kahan, who will perform for the second time. Ferrell will close the season on May 16, his sixth hosting stint, with Paul McCartney as the musical guest for his fifth appearance. Rodrigo’s hosting debut coincides with the release of her new album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love, which is scheduled for June 12. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, known for her emotionally charged performances, will also serve as a musical guest, continuing her tradition of contributing original material to the show. Her previous appearances as a musical guest have included hits like “drivers license” and “good 4 u,” which have become cultural touchstones. The episode will feature a blend of her new songs and past hits, offering fans a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Damon, an Oscar-winning actor and longtime SNL fan, will return to the stage for his third hosting gig. His previous appearances on the show, including a 2018 episode where he played a fictionalized version of himself, have been praised for their humor and self-deprecating wit.#matt_damon #saturday_night_live #will_ferrell #olivia_rodrigo #noah_kahan

Saturday Night Live Announces Star-Studded Lineup for Season 51 Finale Saturday Night Live has announced a star-studded lineup for the final episodes of Season 51, featuring a mix of rising stars and veteran comedians. The season will conclude with a series of high-profile hosting appearances, including Olivia Rodrigo, Matt Damon, and Will Ferrell, alongside musical guests such as Paul McCartney. The schedule includes Rodrigo hosting on May 2, Damon on May 9, and Ferrell on May 16, marking the end of the season’s run. Olivia Rodrigo, the 19-year-old singer-songwriter known for her breakout hit “drivers license,” will make her hosting debut on May 2. She will also perform as the musical guest, a role she previously filled in 2021 and 2023. Rodrigo’s episode will precede the June 12 release of her third studio album, You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love. Her previous work includes the 2021 album Sour, which featured the chart-topping single “drivers license,” and the 2023 album Guts, which earned critical acclaim for its raw emotional depth. Matt Damon, the acclaimed actor and comedian, will host the May 9 episode, with Noah Kahan serving as the musical guest. Damon’s hosting return marks his third time in the role, following appearances in 2002 and 2018. His 2018 episode earned him an Emmy nomination, and he is known for his work in films such as Good Will Hunting, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and The Bourne Identity series. Damon is currently starring in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey, set for release on July 17. Kahan, the indie singer-songwriter, will perform on the episode following the April 24 release of his fourth album, The Great Divide. The season finale on May 16 will be headlined by Will Ferrell, who returns to the show for his sixth hosting stint.#matt_damon #saturday_night_live #olivia_ridgo #will_ferrell #paul_mccartney

Christopher Nolan & Matt Damon’s Sci-Fi Masterpiece To Stream on Peacock Interstellar, Christopher Nolan’s 2014 sci-fi epic, will begin streaming on Peacock next month. The film, which won an Academy Award, follows an intergalactic journey through space and time while centering on the emotional bond between a father and his daughter. Set in a near-future Earth plagued by crop failures and dust storms, the story centers on a former pilot and his daughter, whose strange gravitational anomalies in her room lead them to a secret NASA base. There, they learn of a mission through a wormhole to find a new habitable planet. The father, leveraging his past as a NASA pilot, joins the mission, while his daughter works on solving a gravity equation that could save humanity. Nolan directed the film and co-wrote the script with his brother, Jonathan Nolan. The project originated with producer Lynda Obst, who developed the premise after meeting theoretical physicist Kip Thorne. Obst initially sought Steven Spielberg to direct but later brought Jonathan Nolan on board to write the script, a process that took four years. When Spielberg withdrew, Jonathan suggested Christopher Nolan as a replacement. Nolan retained the Earth-based elements of the story and reworked the latter half, focusing on the father-daughter relationship. Interstellar premiered globally on November 5, 2014, and was well-received. It holds an 87% audience score and a 73% critics’ approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film grossed $773.9 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. It received five Oscar nominations, winning one for Best Visual Effects. The film’s blend of scientific concepts and emotional depth has cemented its status as a modern classic, balancing spectacle with a poignant narrative about love and sacrifice.#peacock #matt_damon #christopher_nolan #interstellar #kip_thorne

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Secures Extended Theatrical Run Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey has received a significant update regarding its release strategy, which will grant the highly anticipated project a longer theatrical run. Universal Pictures has announced a revised distribution plan that extends cinema exclusivity for major releases, offering audiences more time to experience the film in theaters before it transitions to home entertainment platforms. The studio’s new approach involves keeping films exclusively in cinemas for a minimum of five weekends in 2026, with the window expanding to seven weekends in 2027. This marks a shift from the shortened theatrical windows implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which typically lasted around three weekends before digital releases. Universal’s updated strategy aims to restore a longer period of cinema exclusivity for its flagship titles. The Odyssey, directed by Nolan, is set to premiere in theaters on July 17, 2026. The film features a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, and John Leguizamo. Its extended theatrical run is expected to enhance its visibility and allow for a more immersive viewing experience. Other Universal films under this revised strategy include Reminders of Him, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Michael, Disclosure Day, Minions & Monsters, Focker In-Law, How to Train Your Dragon 2, and Shrek 5. However, the policy does not apply to films released through Focus Features, Universal’s specialty label, which will continue with its existing theatrical strategies.#universal_pictures #the_odyssey #matt_damon #chris_nolan #tom_holland

SNL's "Oscar Host Auditions" Revealed Matt Damon's Secret Celeb Impressionist Skills In a standout moment from Saturday Night Live Season 44 Episode 9, which aired on December 15, 2018, Matt Damon showcased his uncanny ability to mimic celebrities during the show’s “Oscar Host Auditions” sketch. The pre-taped segment, part of SNL’s annual Oscar-themed special, allowed cast members to highlight their impersonation skills, with Damon delivering two standout performances that remain memorable to this day. Damon’s first impression was of Chris Hemsworth, the Australian actor known for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His portrayal was eerily accurate, capturing Hemsworth’s distinctive Australian accent and the actor’s signature cadence. The sketch featured Damon delivering the line, “Host the Oscars? Why would anyone want to look at me?” with the perfect blend of Hemsworth’s sheepishness, followed by a knowing wink at the camera. But Damon’s performance didn’t end there. Near the conclusion of the sketch, he transitioned into an uncanny impersonation of Matthew McConaughey. From his hairstyle to his precise delivery, the impression was so spot-on that it felt as though the Dallas Buyers Club star himself was on screen. Damon’s McConaughey delivered a monologue that blended humor with self-awareness, including the line: “First of all, here’s what happened… I was talking to my hero, who is me in ten years. He said, ‘Matthew, you’re gonna host the Academy Awards.’ What I didn’t realize is I was talking to myself in six years, and what I was actually saying was ten years ago, you’re gonna win an Academy Award. So four years ago, my name was in the envelope — so now I don’t know who I’m talking to.#chris_hemsworth #matt_damon #snl #matthew_mcconaughey #oscar_host_auditions

The Role Matt Damon Always Regrets: The One That Got Away Being an actor often means missing out on roles that feel like they were meant for you, but Matt Damon has rarely had to worry about that. Since his breakout role in Good Will Hunting catapulted him from a relative unknown to an Academy Award winner, he’s been a top-tier casting choice. Yet, despite his success, Damon has had moments of regret over parts he didn’t land, particularly those that felt like they could have defined his career. One of the earliest roles that slipped away was Edward Norton’s in Primal Fear. Damon was acutely aware that the part would be a career-defining role for whoever landed it, and he wasn’t wrong—Norton’s performance earned him critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination. While there’s a surreal alternate reality where Danny Dyer’s audition had succeeded and he played Aaron Stampler, Damon has never dwelled on that possibility. The role, though, remains a footnote in his career, a reminder of how close he came to a breakthrough. As Damon’s stardom grew, the roles came to him rather than the other way around. Even so, there were instances where he had to let go of projects that felt significant. One such case was Avatar, where James Cameron’s vision for the film diverged from Damon’s own. While Damon missed out on the lucrative role of Jake Sully, he hasn’t looked back. The financial windfall he forwent was considerable, but he’s content with the path his career took instead. The role that left the deepest mark, however, was in Milk, a biographical drama directed by Gus Van Sant. Damon had already signed on to the project, which was set to reunite him with Van Sant after their work on Good Will Hunting and Gerry. The script was compelling, and Damon had done his research, but the project faced an unexpected hurdle.#josh_brolin #matt_damon #gus_van_sant #sean_penn #avatar

Matt Damon’s Oscar-Nominated Film ‘Invictus’ Still Resonates 17 Years Later Matt Damon, one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars, has earned critical acclaim for his roles in a range of acclaimed films, but his only Oscar nomination came for his work in Clint Eastwood’s 2009 sports drama Invictus. The film, which follows Nelson Mandela’s efforts to unite South Africa through rugby, is based on John Carlin’s book Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation. Eastwood directed the project, with a screenplay by Anthony Peckham, and it marked one of the most expensive films in the director’s career. Despite its global success, Invictus remains unavailable for streaming in the U.S., though it consistently ranks in the top 10 of video-on-demand charts on Apple TV in several international markets. The film received widespread praise, with critics scoring it 76% on Rotten Tomatoes and audiences rating it 75%. It grossed $122 million worldwide against a $60 million production budget, solidifying its status as a commercial and critical hit. Damon’s performance in the film, which earned him an Academy Award nomination, showcased his ability to portray complex historical figures with emotional depth. The project also highlighted Eastwood’s skill in blending sports drama with themes of reconciliation and national unity. While Invictus remains a standout in Damon’s filmography, the actor has continued to take on challenging roles in both action and drama. His upcoming project, a retelling of Homer’s The Odyssey directed by Christopher Nolan, promises to be his most ambitious role yet. Damon will star as Odysseus, with a star-studded cast including Tom Holland, Jon Bernthal, and Charlize Theron. The film is scheduled for release on July 17, marking a significant milestone in Damon’s career.#apple_tv #matt_damon #clint_eastwood #nelson_mandela #the_odyssey