These are photos of Matt Damon at a press conference in China for his film The Great Wall, which is filming now. He was there with co-stars Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones) Andy Lau, and Jing Tian, along with director Zhang Yimou. The film isn’t out until November, 2016 so it’s curious to me that they’re promoting it now. The Daily Mail notes that this is “one of the highest-budget films ever in China as well as the biggest America-China co-production to date.” Given the emphasis on global box office as well as the need to appeal to Chinese audiences and Chinese censors in particular, this film makes sense. It’s a calculated gamble on a huge market that only a few American-made films are able to tap into.

In Great Wall, Damon plays a “mercenary in search of treasure” in 15th century China during the construction of The Wall. It’s being billed as a “scifi action” film, which could be interesting. They’ve been filming on “28 different sets, including on a fake Great Wall which was specially erected and is used as a weapon against otherworldly creatures in the movie.” Incidentally, while Damon is filming in China his recently separated neighbor and best friend, Ben Affleck, has been staying in his mansion, according to Page Six.

The real news, in my superficial view, is that Matt Damon is sporting a ponytail now. I’m assuming this is a weave or wig for the role, although it’s a good one, since he had short hair just a couple of months ago. Some people like it and think it’s hot. It’s very Chris Hemsworth, (who is friends with Damon btw) and although I personally hate it, some of you (like Kaiser) will find it sexy. I like my guys clean cut, and I’m particularly fond of a bald Damon circa Elysium.

Guys with long hair aren’t my bag. So Damon isn’t doing it for me here unfortunately. I still would though, no question. Lainey has more photos of Matt with long hair if you need more time to make a decision.

photo credit: WENN.com