Top 10 Coolest Things About Ben Affleck

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Ben Affleck has packed multiple careers into one: actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He’s moved between indie breakthroughs and studio blockbusters, led award-winning ensembles, and launched projects that give other filmmakers a leg up. Below are ten genuinely cool, fact-based highlights—from his most significant movies and shows to the biographical milestones that shaped his path.

‘Good Will Hunting’ (1997) – co-wrote the script and won an Academy Award

Ben Affleck co-wrote the screenplay for ‘Good Will Hunting’ with Matt Damon, and the film earned them the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. He also acted in the film, which became a critical and commercial success. The win vaulted him from rising actor to sought-after writer-producer. It remains one of the defining writerly milestones of his career.

‘Argo’ (2012) – directed and produced a Best Picture winner

Affleck directed and starred in ‘Argo’, a political thriller that went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. He produced the film and received major directing honors from multiple organizations. The movie’s blend of tension and period detail drew widespread acclaim. Its awards run cemented his reputation as a top-tier filmmaker.

‘The Town’ (2010) – breakout as a serious director-actor in crime drama

With ‘The Town’, Affleck directed and starred in a Boston-set heist story adapted from a novel. The film was praised for its tight pacing and authentic sense of place. It performed strongly at the box office and earned awards-season attention for its supporting cast. The success positioned him as a filmmaker who could deliver grounded, muscular storytelling.

‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ (2016) – his debut as Batman led to a multi-film arc

Affleck took on Bruce Wayne in ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’, introducing a seasoned version of the character. He reprised the role in subsequent DC films, including ensemble entries and director’s cuts tied to the same continuity. The portrayal expanded his global franchise profile. It also involved behind-the-scenes producing credits within that universe.

‘Gone Girl’ (2014) – a high-profile lead role in a prestige thriller

20th Century Fox

In ‘Gone Girl’, Affleck led a thriller directed by David Fincher that became a major box-office hit. His performance anchored a media-saturated mystery that resonated with audiences worldwide. The film drew strong reviews for its adaptation and cast. It further demonstrated his staying power in prestige studio projects.

‘Air’ (2023) – first feature from his Artists Equity banner

Affleck directed and starred in ‘Air’, the inaugural feature from Artists Equity, the company he co-founded with Matt Damon. The film dramatizes the origin of a landmark sports marketing deal and reunited Affleck and Damon on screen. It received positive notices for its ensemble and storytelling focus. The project showcased a new creator-led production model aimed at profit participation for talent.

‘Project Greenlight’ (2001–2015; 2023– ) – co-created a series that mentors new filmmakers

Affleck co-created ‘Project Greenlight’, a television series designed to discover and support first-time directors. The show documents the entire filmmaking process, from script selection to release. It has returned in new iterations to highlight fresh talent. The format has helped launch careers and demystify production for audiences.

Two-time Academy Award winner and multi-hyphenate filmmaker

Affleck is a two-time Academy Award winner, recognized for both screenwriting and producing. Beyond acting, he has built a career as a director and producer across drama, thriller, and historical genres. His work spans studio and independent projects. The combination of on-camera roles and behind-the-camera leadership is a hallmark of his resume.

Long-running creative partnership with Matt Damon and successful production companies

Affleck’s collaboration with Matt Damon extends from early writing work to co-founding Pearl Street Films and, later, Artists Equity. Together, they have developed features, series, and talent-first business structures. Their partnership has yielded award-winning projects and new opportunities for collaborators. It’s one of modern Hollywood’s most durable creative alliances.

Philanthropy and advocacy through the Eastern Congo Initiative

Affleck founded the Eastern Congo Initiative, a nonprofit focused on community-based organizations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The group supports programs in economic development, health, and advocacy. He has testified and spoken publicly to raise awareness and funding for local efforts. The initiative reflects a sustained, policy-oriented approach to philanthropy.

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