Opened: December 5, 1997

Directed by: Gus Van Sant

Starring: Robin Williams, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Stellan Skarsgård, Minnie Driver, Casey Affleck, Cole Hauser & John Mighton

With their debut screenplay, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck keep true to their Cambridge, Massachusetts, roots while creating a dynamic drama that entrances its audience.

Self-taught genius Will Hunting (Matt Damon) works as a janitor at MIT while on probation. After getting arrested from a fight, Professor Gerald Lambeau (Stellan Skarsgård) offers to take Will in if he studies under his supervision and participates in psychotherapy sessions. Dr. Sean Maguire (Robin Williams) won’t back down from the challenge of Will.

Williams and Damon have a powerful dynamic together and their characters realize they needed each other to take their next steps in life. Williams does just as well with the drama as he typically does with his comedy.

The script is funny and brutal and will challenge your perspective on others.

Final say: A perfect shot. ★★★★★