Matt Damon’s appearance in the 1996 film *Courage Under Fire* is presented as a pivotal moment in his career, helping to secure his casting in *Good Will Hunting*. Although his role in the military drama was small, it reportedly demonstrated his commitment and acting ability to director and producer Rob Reiner, who later supported the project that made Damon a star.

For the part, Damon lost around 40 pounds to play a traumatised Gulf War veteran, a transformation that caused health problems and led him to seek medical help. *Courage Under Fire*, directed by Edward Zwick and starring Denzel Washington and Meg Ryan, was released before Damon and Ben Affleck completed *Good Will Hunting*, which won them the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.