This film is an excellent example of how abused individual's behaviors reflect his or her own self-image, and when these behaviors are unacceptable in society, the individual cannot achieve their inner potential. Only when an individual is confronted with the truth, learns to trust, and begins to see that negative outside circumstances are not always self-inflicted, but inflicted upon him or her, can one look inside oneself and find happiness, peace and contentment. .
The film begins with a kaleidoscope effect with the camera lens, hinting to the viewer that we will see a "confused" or "maladjusted" situation. It comes into focus on a young man, sitting and reading, and the angle of the camera is above him, a bare light bulb hanging from the ceiling nearly at eye level with the camera. This is an indication that the confusion we just experienced has to do with this young man.
We subsequently learn that Will Hunting has a genius IQ, was severely abused in foster homes, lives in squalor, provokes physical fights, and talks his way out of jail. And he can solve elaborate math equations, and cite passages of books he's read. Will socializes with a small group of friends, often in a low-end bar. I believe the camera shooting bar scenes may be a telescopic lens, as it portrays the bar to be very small and crowded, yet there are not that many people in it. Everyone and everything is close together. This seems to indicate to the viewer the camaraderie of this group of people, who alienate life around them by hanging out in the bar.
Will solves a math problem, witnessed by Professor Lambeau. Then proceeds to get arrested again, for hitting a policeman. The professor offers him a deal; work with him on math problems, and go to a therapist. Will is willing to help with math, but doesn't believe he needs therapy. After purposely creating havoc with several therapists, he is sent to Sean McGuire, who believes "Trust is the most important thing in making a breakthrough".