Ben Affleck Says Matt Damon Made ‘Wise Choice’ to Pick Acting Roles Based on Directors: ‘I May Go’ to ‘The Odyssey’ Set ‘Just to Watch Nolan Direct’

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As a dedicated film enthusiast, I’ve often found myself reflecting on my journey in Hollywood, and it’s become apparent that my career path diverged significantly from Matt Damon‘s after a crucial turning point. You see, Matt made a shrewd decision early on in his career to select roles based on the director of the movie. This choice, I believe, has played a significant role in shaping our individual trajectories within the film industry.

Following their success with the original screenplay for “Good Will Hunting,” which won them an Oscar in 1997, Damon started collaborating with notable directors like Steven Spielberg (from “Saving Private Ryan”), Anthony Minghella (“The Talented Mr. Ripley”), Robert Redford (“The Legend of Bagger Vance”), and Steven Soderbergh (“Ocean’s Eleven”). On the other hand, Affleck focused on action-packed blockbusters such as “Armageddon,” major studio productions like “Pearl Harbor” and “Daredevil,” among others.

Affleck shared with GQ his perspective on the differences between his acting career and Damon’s. He explained that Matt understood earlier than he did the importance of focusing on the director as the primary factor in deciding whether to take on a role, a decision Affleck now views as very astute. Additionally, Affleck acknowledged that Matt had been offered roles in films that were not necessarily available to him, but emphasized that they both face limitations based on their specific opportunities.

Affleck stated later in the interview, “If Martin Scorsese asked me to play a waiter, I would definitely accept the role. Steven Spielberg is one of the greatest filmmakers who has ever lived. Similarly, I hold Chris Nolan in high regard. I might even visit him on set just to observe Nolan directing. I’m completely serious about this.

Presently, Damon is working on director Christopher Nolan’s movie titled “The Odyssey,” where he shares the screen with a large group of talented actors such as Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Tom Holland, and others. This marks their third project together, having previously worked in “Interstellar” and “Oppenheimer.

Affleck shared with GQ that he had a conversation about Matt’s upcoming venture – starring in a Chris Nolan film and engaging in extensive stunt practice. He expressed something like, “It seems so long ago, doesn’t it?” as Matt is gearing up for action scenes, which are reminiscent of ‘The Bourne Identity’ in terms of physical demands.

In “The Accountant 2,” due for release on April 25, Affleck once again takes on an action-packed role. However, as the film’s production wraps up, Affleck acknowledges that his days of performing high-risk stunts are coming to an end.

Initially, I was quite enthusiastic, often saying things like, “I’ll handle the fights, I’ll do the stunts.” However, now my sentiment has shifted significantly to, “When will the stunt performer take over here?” He explained this change is partly due to his understanding that these professionals are more skilled at what they do, and it’s important to have someone who can execute it flawlessly. Additionally, from a personal standpoint, he prefers not to get hurt or tired in the process.

Head over to GQ magazine’s website to read Affleck’s latest cover story in its entirety.

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2025-03-26 00:16