Behind every major action star there is usually a stunt performer. But in Matt Damon’s case, the person who stepped into his shoes for one of the most talked-about scenes in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” was a woman.
And not just any woman. Devyn Dalton, a Canadian stunt performer who stands about 4 feet 6 inches tall, has emerged in recent months as one of the most intriguing surprises to come out of the blockbuster production.
Dalton’s name was largely unknown outside the industry until Damon revealed in an interview that she had served as one of his doubles in the film. He also publicly praised her physique and striking arms, calling them “the greatest arms I have ever seen.”
The compliment went viral, introducing the public to a performer who has spent years working behind the scenes on major productions.
Dalton, who grew up in Canada, entered the stunt world after years of training in dance, martial arts, yoga and strength conditioning. Over the course of her career, she has worked on major film and television projects, including the “Planet of the Apes” trilogy.
But “The Odyssey” marked an unusual milestone: It was the first time she had doubled for a male actor in a leading role.
The decision to cast her was no accident. In one of the film’s more impressive action sequences, the production team needed to convey the enormous difference in size between Odysseus and the mythical giants attacking him and his men.
Rather than relying solely on digital effects, which Nolan prefers to avoid when possible, the director also used perspective tricks and performers of short stature. Dalton played a central role in that creative solution.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Dalton said she never expected to become the subject of widespread attention. Years of demanding work in the industry had passed with few people outside the productions knowing her name, she said, making the sudden exposure a complete surprise.
“I have to say a huge thank-you to Matt for being so generous,” she said.
Dalton and another stunt performer on the set of ‘The Odyssey'
(Photo: Instagram)
Alongside her excitement, Dalton expressed hope that the attention would also highlight the work of stunt performers, who often create some of the most memorable moments in movies while remaining far from the spotlight.
In an interview with Yahoo Entertainment, she added: “When people watch a movie, they see the stars. What they don't always see are the hundreds of artists, craftspeople and crew members working together to make those moments possible. Every single person matters.”