Good Will Hunting

dir Gus Van Sant - The story of a troubled genius named Will Hunting (Matt Damon) forced to work with emotionally wounded psychiatrist Sean Maguire (Robin Williams) seems ripe for the sort of cathartic therapeutic hokum which has passed for emotional honesty in films like Ordinary People or the recent Bliss. Good Will Hunting is conscious enough of the pitfall associated with therapy-centred drama to provide a goofy sense of originality. The script, by Damon and his co-star and real-life buddy Affleck, keeps the dialogue between Will and Sean smart and smart-alecky. The arc of their relationship is convincing and patiently developed, with Williams and Damon sharing an impressive chemistry. In fact, chemistry defines the cast from top to bottom - Will's friendships with his working-class chums, his romance with a British Harvard student (Minnie Driver), and even Sean's contentious friendship with the MIT professor (Stellan Skarsgaard) who envies Will's gift. Strongest casting choice of all is Damon himself in a dazzlingly charismatic piece of screen acting. As both actor and writer, Matt Damon gives Good Will Hunting energy, soul and a welcome desire to avoid trite situations. It's a rare drama which satisfies without pandering, a feel-good, heal-good session. Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck, Stellan Skarsgaard, Minnie Driver. AA nom: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Damon), Best Supp Actor (Williams) Best Supp Actress (Driver), Screenplay (USA 1997) 127 min. AA.

Pic of reels

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