Matt Damon has been everywhere lately, thanks to his starring role in Christopher Nolan's epic The Odyssey. But for those craving a different kind of Damon—one that trades heroism for moral complexity—there's no better choice than Martin Scorsese's 2006 crime thriller The Departed. And with the film arriving on HBO Max this October, it's the ideal moment to dive into one of the most electrifying performances of his career.
A Tale of Two Moles
Set in the gritty underbelly of Boston, The Departed is a masterclass in tension. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Billy Costigan, a young cop who goes undercover to infiltrate the mob empire of Frank Costello, portrayed with menacing glee by Jack Nicholson. Simultaneously, Colin Sullivan (Damon), a protege of Costello, rises through the ranks of the Massachusetts State Police, feeding secrets back to his criminal boss. As both sides suspect a mole, the hunt becomes a deadly game of cat and mouse.
Scorsese, a master of visual storytelling, uses music and imagery to powerful effect. The opening sequence, with Nicholson silhouetted to The Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter," sets a tone of impending doom. DiCaprio's prison scene, scored to Dropkick Murphys' "I'm Shipping Up to Boston," is equally iconic. These moments, combined with a stellar supporting cast including Alec Baldwin, Mark Wahlberg, and Vera Farmiga, make the film a cinematic tour de force.
Damon's Unexpected Turn
Known for his heroic roles in Good Will Hunting, the Bourne franchise, and Saving Private Ryan, Damon subverts expectations as Sullivan. He's charming and articulate, but beneath that facade lies a cowardly, self-serving liar. His performance is a study in quiet desperation—he's not a cartoonish villain but a deeply flawed man whose anxiety and panic simmer just below the surface. This subtlety makes him stand out in an ensemble of powerhouse actors, proving that sometimes the most compelling performances are the ones that don't shout.
It's a role that showcases Damon's range, and it's no surprise that it's often cited as his best work. For fans of thriller sagas, The Departed is a must-watch.
Scorsese's Long-Awaited Oscar
Before The Departed, Scorsese had been nominated for Best Director five times without a win—a glaring oversight for the man behind Raging Bull and Goodfellas. The 2006 film finally broke the streak, earning him his first Oscar, presented by fellow legends Steven Spielberg, Francis Ford Coppola, and George Lucas. His humorous "Could you double-check the envelope?" quip only endeared him further to audiences.
While some argue other Scorsese films deserved the honor, The Departed remains a pivotal moment in his career. It's a film that proves the power of collaboration, with every actor and technician at the top of their game. For those who've been swept up in the spy thriller craze, this is a classic that set the standard.
As October rolls around, make room in your streaming queue for The Departed. It's not just a great crime thriller—it's a testament to what happens when a legendary director and a talented cast converge. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
