Actor and screenwriter Matt Damon has finally shared the film he considers his all-time favourite, putting an end to the often difficult question of naming a single greatest movie. Despite his extensive experience in Hollywood and admiration for many films, Damon singled out one classic as his definitive favourite, a choice that may surprise some fans.
Early Favorites and Influences in Damon’s Cinematic Journey
Damon’s long career in the public eye has seen him discuss a variety of movies he admires. He praised his close friend Ben Affleck‘s performance in The Way Back and openly encouraged audiences to watch it. He has fond memories of Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin’s dynamic in Midnight Run, and recalls the impact of seeing Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction for the first time with Affleck. Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove also left a lasting impression on him, showing how diverse his tastes have been over the years.
Damon’s High Regard for Iconic Films and Performances
Beyond his personal favorites, Damon praised the excellence of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, describing it as a perfect film. His admiration aligns with that of his co-star Emily Blunt from projects like Adjustment Bureau and Oppenheimer. Nevertheless, these films are not what Damon considers his ultimate choice, though they clearly hold a special place in his cinematic appreciation.
The Godfather Part II: Damon’s Enduring Favourite
Speaking to author Cindy Pearlman for her book You Gotta See This: More Than 100 of Hollywood’s Best Reveal and Discuss Their Favourite Films, Damon revealed his consistent favourite is The Godfather Part II. He explained,
“I watch The Godfather Part II at least once a year,”
“Oh god, I like everything about it. The acting is so good that I set there and wonder if I could ever do anything that great. You look at Pacino and Brando and think, ‘I’ve seen this film a hundred times’, but it’s fresh every single time.”
This yearly ritual and deep appreciation show how profoundly the film resonates with him.
The Curious Case of Marlon Brando’s Absence
Interestingly, despite Damon’s frequent viewings and detailed knowledge of the film, he seems to overlook a notable fact: Marlon Brando does not appear in The Godfather Part II. Brando was originally scheduled for a brief flashback scene, but studio disputes prevented his participation, prompting director Francis Ford Coppola to rewrite the script. This has not diminished Damon’s admiration; whether he blends the first two films mentally or is captivated by Robert De Niro’s portrayal of the young Vito Corleone, Damon regards the movie as a cohesive masterpiece.
Why Damon’s Favourite Choice Matters
Matt Damon’s endorsement of The Godfather Part II highlights the film’s enduring influence on modern actors and audiences alike. His deep respect for the performances of Al Pacino and the legacy of the Corleone saga connects to his own experiences with challenging roles and storytelling. As he continues to revisit the film, it reflects the timeless nature of great cinema and the inspiration it can provide over a lifetime.
