Ben Affleck Thinks His Armageddon Commentary May Be His Best Work

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Ben Affleck finds it surprising that “Armageddon” is included in the Criterion Collection as well. He shares that he didn’t consider it a film of that caliber when he was making it, and his feelings towards Michael Bay’s apocalyptic thriller are evident from his commentary on the movie. Affleck admits that he was just being honest at the time, but he’s proud of the achievement and didn’t anticipate it to be as good as he thinks it is now. The sarcastic and playful Ben Affleck in the “Armageddon” commentary is a stark contrast to the mature, wise, and laid-back Affleck who carries himself with a subtle air of authority these days. While discussing his favorite films in the Criterion Collection might be a way for celebrities to show off their status, nothing demonstrates authentic enthusiasm quite like being genuinely passionate about one’s art. In this sense, Ben Affleck feels right at home among the prestigious titles in the Criterion Closet, picking out movie after movie.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=3TJ2BlReus0

Affleck often references and draws inspiration from several classic American films, excluding “The Rules of the Game” by Jean Renoir and “Trainspotting” by Danny Boyle. His collection includes works like Terrence Malick’s “Badlands”, Jonathan Demme’s “The Silence of the Lambs”, Spike Lee’s “Malcolm X”, and Richard Linklater’s “Dazed and Confused”. He proudly reveals one of these films he’s featured in, flashing a grin. Affleck acknowledges that many of these movies have deeply influenced him not just as an artist but also personally. He specifically mentions Richard Linklater’s method of improvisation and collaboration, as well as Robert Townsend’s ownership of his life and art in “Hollywood Shuffle”. Interestingly, it appears Affleck is capable of impersonations, as he demonstrates with a Sean Penn impression from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”. It seems we now have a better understanding of Affleck’s love for movies and his acting skills.

Initially perceived as Matt Damon’s less intellectual counterpart, Affleck has consistently demonstrated his growing wisdom and stability in an evolving film industry. He enters the Criterion Closet as both a passionate Hollywood enthusiast and a filmmaker, eager to acknowledge the impact of directors like the Coen brothers on his own work. He concludes his collection with David Lynch’s “The Elephant Man”, a movie that holds personal significance because watching it was the only time he saw his father cry. This memory seems to resonate with the contemporary Affleck and the character from “The Accountant 2”, evoking a momentary connection with the younger, more melancholic Affleck. The Affleck of yesteryear might have praised “Bull Durham” for its sensuality. However, this Affleck appreciates it for its portrayal of the dignity, courage, and humanity of individuals striving for greatness, even if they may not have achieved it, and finding contentment in who they are.

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2025-04-29 00:53