Hollywood star Matt Damon may be promoting one of the year's biggest films, 'The Odyssey,' but it was his heartfelt admiration for an Indian filmmaker that stole the spotlight during his visit to Mumbai.
Despite the expectation that he would mention SS Rajamouli as his ideal collaborator, Damon surprised many by expressing his admiration for veteran filmmaker Shekhar Kapur. He disclosed that not being able to work with Kapur over 20 years ago is one of his major career regrets.
Matt Damon Names the Indian Director
At a media briefing in Mumbai on 11th July, before The Odyssey's grand opening, Matt Damon was questioned about his preferred Indian director to work with.
Rather than selecting a modern filmmaker such as SS Rajamouli, Damon opted for Shekhar Kapur, highlighting how the renowned director had been a sought-after choice for every actor in Hollywood. "The filmmaker starting out that everyone wanted to collaborate with was Shekhar Kapur," Damon said.
He then reflected about a missed chance that has been on his mind for over two decades. The performer disclosed that he was initially in discussions to star in Kapur's 2002 historical war drama 'The Four Feathers,' but had to withdraw because he had already committed to a Bourne film.
"I remember when I couldn't do The Four Feathers, and I was really upset about that. I think I was signed up for a Bourne movie. He's always remained on my list, and I'd really like another go. That's like a little 20-year-old debt I've been carrying around in my pocket," Damon admitted.
Why the Collaboration Never Happened and Shekhar Kapur's Response
The missed opportunity for collaboration happened in the early 2000s, during Kapur's direction of 'The Four Feathers,' which featured Heath Ledger, Wes Bentley, Kate Hudson, and Djimon Hounsou.
Damon cited conflicting schedules with the 'Bourne' series as the reason he couldn't join the project, despite his keen interest. Even now, more than twenty years later, he expresses that the feeling of regret remains strong.
Damon's comments quickly reached Shekhar Kapur, who responded warmly, saying he would "give my right arm" to finally work with the Oscar-winning actor.
The exchange delighted fans, with many hoping the long-awaited Hollywood-Bollywood collaboration could finally become a reality after 20 years.
How 'The Odyssey' Brought Matt Damon Back to India
Damon disclosed this information during his trip to India as a part of the promotional journey for Christopher Nolan's movie 'The Odyssey.' Director Christopher Nolan, producer Emma Thomas, and actor Tom Holland also journeyed to Mumbai, which was the inaugural occasion of a Christopher Nolan film having its official premiere in India.
Speaking at the screening, Nolan thanked Indian audiences for their continued support, calling them among the world's most passionate movie lovers, while Damon expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome.
Based on Homer's classic Greek tale, 'The Odyssey' features Damon in the role of Odysseus, supported by a diverse cast including Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong'o, and Samantha Morton.
The film is scheduled to release in theatres on 17th July, 2026, making its India visit one of Hollywood's biggest promotional events of the year.
