Although he initially broke out in1997’sGood Will Hunting, for which he won an Oscar for co-writing,Ben Affleckhas become a household name over the years, yet he’s at his best when he’s getting experimental. Affleck is a major movie star, most known for performing in crowd-pleasing films that are either fun comedies likeChasing Amyor blockbusters that have hit big at the box office likeArmageddonandPearl Harbor.
At various points in his career, Affleck has also suited up in the superhero genre,portraying both Batman and Daredevilin DC and Marvel projects, respectively, that weren’t well-received. While that’s what he’s most famous for, Affleck showcases his true talents when he branches out, whether it’sbehind the camera as a director, writing a screenplay, or doing what he did in 2012, when he starred in an unexpected project.
Ben Affleck Making To The Wonder Was A Fascinating Career Choice
The Terrence Malick Film is Unlike His Other Projects
Ben Affleck has taken on a handful of intriguing roles over his career but his work in 2012’sTo the Wonderis the most unique.To the Wonderis a romantic drama that is told in a non-linear fashion, features minimal dialogue, and is a highly experimental projectfromacclaimed director Terrence Malick. The premise is simple on its own, following a couple (Affleck’s Neil and Olga Kurylenko’s Marina) as they fall in love in Paris and struggle when they move to the United States.
Reception to Terrence Malick’s project was mixed and it’s a divisive film but that makes it even more interesting to watch for a different look at Affleck.
It’s the way Malick handles it all that makes it so unique and interesting.This is especially a standout movie in Affleck’s filmography because of what surrounds it. Beforehand, he did the rom-comHe’s Just Not That Into Youand the crime dramaThe Town,but followedTo the Wonderup withGone GirlandBatman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, which are the kind of movies he’s known for. Reception to Terrence Malick’s project was mixed and it’s a divisive film but that makes it even more interesting to watch for a different look at Affleck.
Ben Affleck Is Often At His Best When He’s Not Being A Movie Star
Ben Going Outside The Box Is Ideal
There’s a reason Ben Affleck is most known for his big Hollywood blockbusters. He does well in them, standing out in projects likeArmageddon, Gone Girl, Justice League, and evenhis latest action franchise,The Accountant. However, Affleck has shown that he’s usually at his best when he’s trying something unexpected or different. For example, along with his screenwriting Oscar, Affleck also shined as a director inGone Baby GoneandThe Town.
As an actor,it’s when he takes supporting roles that are sometimes strange that he shows off his range. InThe Last Duel, he played Count Pierre d’Alençon, allowing him to pull off the rare role of a medieval era wealthy and cruel playboy. Affleck has also clearly had a blast over the years playing comedic roles inKevin Smith movies, either as a leading man or in cameos either as himself or as Holden McNeil.To the Wonderis another in a line of impressive, unexpected parts by Affleck that worked.
