Good Will Hunting is a must-watch for any film fanatic. Starring a very young Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, combined with prime Robin Williams in one of his best-ever performances, it all came together to produce one of the best films of the 90s.
At first glance, the film’s title seems to be a nod to its main character’s name, Will Hunting, but now fans are only just realising it has an even deeper meaning.
Originally released in 1997, the plot follows the titular character as he works as a janitor at MIT University after a recent prison term, but after coming across a complex equation on a chalkboard, we soon realise the 20-year-old Will Hunting is a secret maths genius.
Will is then discovered by one of the maths professors, but after getting in a fight with his friends narrowly avoids prison time by agreeing to work under the professor and begin psychotherapy sessions.
Psychology teacher Dr Sean Maguire, played by Robin Williams, embarks on a friendly battle to uncover more about Will’s background.
After its release the film was almost an instant hit, making stars of the two young actors. It was also a favourite of the critics going on to be nominated for nine Oscars, eventually winning two, Best Original Screenplay for the script created by Affleck and Damon and Best Supporting Actor for Robin Williams.
But now, 28 years on, it’s the film’s title that’s now in discussion with users on Reddit – who have been debating the name’s true meaning.
The obvious thought is that the core of the film is about Will trying to leave his troubled history behind to become a good student. However, fans online are discovering that’ Will’s name has a double meaning.
Reddit user Nowhereman136 suggests the title also reflects the main character’s aim.
They wrote: “Will Hunting is the name of Matt Damon’s character. It is also his goal. He is looking for the will to do something with his life, instead of wandering aimlessly smarter than everyone else.”
The double entendre has meaning for both Will Hunting’s potential for kindness, but also the fact he is hunting for goodwill, something that can only really be understood by watching the film.
Reddit user DemonicPenguin03 added: “Good Will Hunting as in “Hunting for goodwill” because the thing that made Will turn his life around was the generosity and compassion (AKA goodwill) of Robin Williams’ character.”
Now we know the deeper meaning, we’ll never watch the film in the same way again!