imperfect but highly watchable and well-made

Rating: Null/10 (29 January 2007)

Absorbing and thought-provoking story from director Gus Van Sant about a brilliant but deeply troubled young man. Damon, in a strong performance, is Will Hunting, a feckless native of working-class Boston with a genius IQ and an aptitude for mathematics even though he spends his days getting into legal troubles with his buddies and working as a janitor at an upscale university. When a renowned professor discovers this, he sends Will to the only person who can get through to him: maverick psychologist Williams—who has his own emotional baggage. From a screenplay by actors Matt Damon and Ben Affleck the film isn't always on target, especially with an abundance of profane dialogue, but it holds you throughout and benefits from rock solid performances. ***