Matt Damon is one of the biggest names in Hollywood. He carved out a reputation as one of the greatest actors currently working in the industry, and throughout his career, Damon has proven he can excel in a wide variety of roles. He has a reputation as a full-fledged action star thanks to his brilliant performances in a number of action films, but he has also proven that he can play complex characters and can take on both good and evil roles. From Good Will Hunting to Saving Private Ryan, here are 10 of the award-winning actor’s greatest performances.
10. Rounders (1998)
In one of his early lead roles, Damon takes on the role of a gifted young poker player, Mike McDermott, in John Dahl’s cult drama Rounders. After losing his $30,000 bankroll in a game of Texas hold’em, Mike decides to stop playing poker and instead finish law school. But when his childhood friend Worm, played by Edward Norton, is released from prison, he convinces Mike to start up again to help clear his outstanding debt. Mike plays an honest game, whilst Worm wants to cheat to win, and this contrast in character is crucial in the story. Damon puts in an assured performance and clearly delved into the psyche of a professional poker player for the role (he has since played in World Series of Poker events). The tense poker scenes make for a gripping watch, but the film is powered by the performances of Damon and Norton.
Source: Screenshot via Miramax Films