Matt Damon recently shared a memorable story from his first time working with Clint Eastwood. The moment happened during the filming of the 2009 Documentary movie Invictus.
Matt Damon talked about this experience while appearing on the Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend podcast. He explained that he learned very quickly how Clint Eastwood likes to work on set.
In Invictus, Matt Damon played Francois Pienaar, a South African rugby player. To prepare for the role, he spent six months working hard on the South African accent. He practiced every weekday with a dialect coach and felt fully ready on his first day of filming.
When the cameras started rolling, Damon gave his first take. Right after that, Clint Eastwood said, “Cut, print, move on.” Matt Damon was surprised. He politely asked if he could do one more take, since it was his first try.
Eastwood looked at him and calmly said, “Why? You wanna waste everybody’s time?” Damon quickly understood the message and agreed to move on. That scene was finished in just one take.
Even though the moment sounded strict, Damon made it clear there was no anger. He said Eastwood was kind and respectful. The director believes that if actors are prepared, they do not need many takes.
Damon explained that Eastwood’s style helps keep the energy and speed of filming strong. The crew stays focused, and everyone respects each other’s time.
That first experience clearly worked out well. Damon’s performance in Invictus earned him an Oscar nomination, and he later worked with Eastwood again on another film.
This story shows how different directing styles can still lead to great performances and strong teamwork on set.