Matt Damon

Breakthrough and Success

Matt Damon's breakthrough in the late 1990s marked the beginning of his successful career in Hollywood.

Courage Under Fire

1996

Damon's performance in Courage Under Fire attracted the attention of director Francis Ford Coppola.

Good Will Hunting

1997

Damon co-wrote and starred in Good Will Hunting, which won him and Ben Affleck the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

The Rainmaker

1997

Damon starred in The Rainmaker, directed by Francis Ford Coppola.

Saving Private Ryan

1998

Damon had a role in Saving Private Ryan, which received critical acclaim.