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10 Of The Best Movie Cameos, Ever

A movie cameo is a delicate thing. While the modern definition of the term seems to have evolved into ‘any short appearance’ by a well-known or recognisable person in a performed piece, a cameo was originally held to be “a small character part that stands out from the other minor parts”. Over a century of film, movie cameos have come to take many forms, with an early infamous example being the work of Alfred Hitchcock – who often made silent, walk-on appearances in his films. More recently, comic book icon Stan Lee has achieved cameo notoriety – being featured briefly in most productions of Marvel properties, as well as in the 1995 comedy Mallrats.

Matt Damon as Donny in EuroTrip (2004)

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EuroTrip is an entirely forgettable entry into the “teen comedy” movie category – except for one, single, shining bright spot, in the shape of a Matt Damon cameo. The actor’s presence in this film is incongruous – perhaps even bizarre – but as the scene continues, it becomes an enjoyable comic moment, and the highlight of the entire endeavour.

Scotty (Scott Mechlowicz) has been unceremoniously rejected by his High School girlfriend, Fiona (Kristin Kreuk). Sad and forlorn, he attends a graduation party, at which the crowd is entertained by a local band – led by the pumped-up, tattooed and pierced lead singer Donny (Matt Damon). Donny kicks off the set with a catchy rock tune titled ‘Scotty Doesn’t Know,’ during which he gyrates onstage with Fiona, while singing about the graphic, intimate details of their torrid affair.

In and of itself, the scene is mildly amusing at best, but Matt Damon takes it to the next level with admirable commitment to the role. With a shaved head, and obvious delight in humiliating another person, the character of Donny instantly becomes a deliciously evil villain, thanks to the gravitas of Damon.