Matt Damon wanted to work with Shekhar Kapur, reveals why he missed 'The Four Feathers'
Mumbai, July 12
More than two decades after missing the chance to collaborate with filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, Hollywood star Matt Damon says it's a regret he still carries.
During the promotional event for The Odyssey in Mumbai on Saturday, the Oscar-winning actor revealed that Kapur has long remained on his wish list of filmmakers, admitting he was "really upset" when he couldn't be a part of the director's 2002 film 'The Four Feathers.'
When asked which Indian filmmaker he would most like to work with, Damon didn't hesitate naming Shekhar Kapur. Reflecting on the missed opportunity, the actor recalled that Kapur was among the most sought-after filmmakers at the time.
Calling Kapur a filmmaker that "everyone wanted" to collaborate with, Damon said he was "really upset" that he couldn't join The Four Feathers, explaining that an earlier commitment to the Jason Bourne franchise prevented him from taking up the project.
"The filmmaker starting out that everyone wanted to collaborate with was Shekhar Kapur," Damon said. "I was really upset that I couldn't do The Four Feathers. I think I was signed up for the Jason Bourne movie," he added.
The actor admitted that the missed collaboration has stayed with him over the years and said he hopes he still gets the chance to work with the acclaimed filmmaker.
"I guess he's always been on my list, and so I'd like to have another go. That's like a 20-year-old sort of debt I've been carrying around in my body. That's it," Damon said.
Damon is currently in India alongside co-star Tom Holland and director Christopher Nolan as part of the promotional tour for The Odyssey. The team launched the film in Mumbai with a special media screening on July 10, followed by a red-carpet premiere on Saturday that was attended by several members of the Indian film industry.
Directed by Christopher Nolan, 'The Odyssey' is slated to hit theatres on July 17. The film has reportedly been granted an 'A' certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India without any cuts.
The epic features an ensemble cast including Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Charlize Theron, Lupita Nyong'o and Samantha Morton, and is produced by Nolan and Emma Thomas under their Syncopy banner.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's refreshing to see an international star like Damon being so candid about missing a chance to work with an Indian filmmaker. But honestly, I think Shekhar Kapur has moved on and created some amazing work since then. The Four Feathers might not have been the right fit anyway.
I remember when 'The Four Feathers' was announced - everyone in Bollywood was buzzing about Kapur directing a Hollywood epic. Damon choosing Bourne over that film was a smart career move, but it's nice to see he still respects Kapur's vision. Hope they collaborate soon - imagine what a Damon-Kapur project could achieve! 🎬
As someone who follows both Hollywood and Indian cinema, this is a beautiful moment of cross-cultural respect. Damon's humility in admitting his regret shows his character. Meanwhile, Nolan and Kapur in the same city? India is becoming a film destination! 🎥
While it's nice that Damon appreciates Kapur, I feel this is slightly overblown. Kapur hasn't directed a feature film in years - 'Masoom' and 'Bandit Queen' were decades ago. Maybe Damon should look at newer Indian filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap or SS Rajamouli who are actually making waves today. Just my opinion.
Love how Damon's regret shows that Indian talent is recognized globally. And Nolan bringing 'The Odyssey' to Mumbai for promotion? That's huge for our industry! The red-carpet premiere with Bollywood stars must have been spectacular. 👏🇮🇳
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