Being known as a writer did change the relationships I had with directors. The rap on actors is that they always want to inflate their parts. But when directors know you write screenplays and have a different view of things, you really get invited into the huddle in a much fuller way. And those collaborations end in friendships.
Matt DamonI think it's still hard for me to turn down work if it's really good because for so many years I was desperate to get a job and couldn't, so I think it's anathema for me to turn down work if I think it's really good.
Matt DamonThere are people who just collect a bunch of footage and then edit it later. You definitely feel more protected when a director is moving on when you've actually felt something happen and you know they're watching intently.
Matt DamonI think Clint Eastwood is a well oiled machine. Everyone that works with him has the same reaction, "Can I stay with you?"
Matt DamonFor Ripley I learned to play some songs on the piano, and I never really played them again.
Matt Damon