Matt Dillon

Matt Dillon was born on February 18, 1964 in New Rochelle, New York, USA. He is an American actor and film director. He gained fame as a teen idol during the early 1980s right after he was discovered by a casting director at the age of 14 while cutting class at school. Over the years, he appeared in a variety of films ranging from dramas to comedies, earning recognition for his diverse talent and on-screen presence.

Matt Dillon made his acting debut in the film 'Over the Edge' which premiered in September 1979. Dillon was cast in the role of Richie White, one of the leading characters in the film, which was about rebellious teenagers in a suburban planned community. Despite its initial commercial failure, the film has been certified a 'cult classic'. Dillon's performance was highly praised and kickstarted his rise as a teenage heartthrob actor.

On March 25, 1983, 'The Outsiders', a film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, was released. Matt Dillon played the role of Dallas 'Dally' Winston, a tough Greaser, in this coming-of-age drama based on the novel by S.E. Hinton. The film, revolving around the class conflicts between the wealthy 'Socs' and the working-class 'Greasers', featured an ensemble cast of young actors who would later become major stars. Dillon's portrayal of Dally was noted for its depth and impact.

Released on October 27, 1989, 'Drugstore Cowboy' starred Matt Dillon in the lead role as Bob Hughes, a pharmacy-robbing drug addict. Directed by Gus Van Sant, this film is considered a landmark in independent American cinema. Dillon's performance received critical acclaim, establishing him as a respected actor capable of delivering complex, mature roles. The film's portrayal of addiction and its impact resonated with both critics and audiences alike.

'There's Something About Mary', a comedy film directed by the Farrelly brothers, was released on July 15, 1998, featuring Matt Dillon as Pat Healy, a sleazy private detective. The film was a major box office success and is credited with reviving the popularity of the romantic comedy genre in the late 1990s. Dillon's comedic performance added to his portfolio of diverse roles, showcasing his ability to handle comedy just as well as drama.

Matt Dillon made his directorial debut with the film 'City of Ghosts', released on March 1, 2002. He also co-wrote and starred in the film, which follows a conman who travels to Cambodia to meet with his mentor and attempts to get his share of a stolen fortune. This marked Dillon's transition from acting into directing, showcasing his skills behind the camera. Though the film received mixed reviews, it was noted for its atmospheric setting and ambitious storytelling.

On September 30, 2005, the film 'Crash' was released in which Matt Dillon took on the role of Officer John Ryan. Directed by Paul Haggis, Crash is a crime drama film that examines racial and social tensions in Los Angeles. Dillon's performance was critically acclaimed and earned him numerous award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Besides its divisive reception, 'Crash' went on to win three Oscars, including Best Picture.

On July 7, 2006, Matt Dillon was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, highlighting his significant contributions to the film industry as an actor and filmmaker. The ceremony was attended by many of his colleagues and fans, celebrating his career that spanned over two decades and covered a range of genres from comedies to dramas. This honor marked another milestone in his accomplished Hollywood journey.

On May 10, 2018, 'The House That Jack Built' was released at the Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Lars von Trier, this controversial psychological horror film stars Matt Dillon as Jack, a highly intelligent serial killer. Despite polarizing reviews, Dillon's performance was lauded for its intense portrayal and complexity, adding another layer to his longstanding career. 'The House That Jack Built' raised debates about its graphic content and artistic merit.

'Land of Dreams', a film starring Matt Dillon, premiered on September 10, 2022. Directed by Shoja Azari and Shirin Neshat, this comedic drama takes place in a near-future America where the census bureau records citizens' dreams. Dillon plays a key role in helping to explore themes of identity and privacy in a whimsical setting. This film marks Dillon's continued presence in contemporary cinema, showcasing his ability to engage with unique and thought-provoking roles.