Key Takeaways:
* Ben Affleck expressed dissatisfaction with his Batman role within the DCEU.
* His tenure as Batman featured in creative and production struggles, coloring his experience.
* While not blaming anyone at DC or WB, Affleck mentions Matt Damon’s influence on his decision to quit the Batman role.
* Affleck suggests he might prefer complex, supporting roles over leading ones for the time being.
* He recounts his rejuvenated love for acting after his role in The Last Duel alongside Damon and Ridley Scott.
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Ben Affleck’s Discontent Over Batman Role
Ben Affleck, who donned Batman’s iconic cape in the tumultuous productions within the DCEU, has expressed his dissatisfaction regarding his portrayal of the superhero. Affleck’s Batman had awkward beginnings in the critically-panned Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, and later appeared in Suicide Squad before heading the troubled theatrical release of Justice League. Despite this exposure, a standalone Batman movie starring Affleck never materialized within the DCEU.
Mat Damon’s Influence on Affleck’s Exit
In a surprising revelation, Affleck attributed his ultimate decision to quit the Batman role to his long-time friend and fellow actor Matt Damon. The pair discussed Affleck’s growing disillusionment during an interview for EW. Affleck highlighted a peak of discontentment while working on the ensemble film, Justice League, due to numerous behind-the-scenes problems.
A quote from Affleck via EW paints a clear picture of his experience, “I had a really nadir experience around Justice League for a lot of different reasons. Not blaming anybody…But, that’s when I was like, I’m not going to do that anymore. In fact, I talked to you [Matt Damon] about it, and you were a principal influence on that decision.”
Finding Joy Again with ‘The Last Duel’
Affleck found solace and joy regaining his passion for acting while working on The Last Duel. He cited his collaboration with Damon and renowned director Ridley Scott on the historical film as a breath of fresh air. Although his character in The Last Duel was unlikable, he found the filming process invigorating, something he struggled to experience as Batman.
Shift in Acting Preferences
In a 2021 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Affleck hinted at his shifted interest towards playing more complicated and flawed characters. He feels that leading roles in big-budget films restrict him from portraying multi-faceted characters due to the virtuous image these characters must depict.
Affleck pointed out his concerns stating, “When you’re the protagonist…there’s a certain essential virtuousness that has to be present…I’ve found it more interesting…to play rich characters.” He reminiscences his past superb performances in supporting roles for movies like Good Will Hunting, Shakespeare in Love, and The Last Duel. Fans can witness the conversant charm Affleck holds where he elegantly plays multifaceted roles, which brings much diversity and excitement on screen.
Conclusion
The dire situation faced by Ben Affleck on set was a worrisome period for every fan who admired his on-screen persona. While Affleck’s dissatisfaction gave him reason to seek complex, characterful roles, his Batman portrayal provides a clear exemplar of the potential pitfalls of blockbuster film production. For those curious about his contrasts in roles, Justice League is now streaming on Max and The Last Duel is available on Hulu. Despite the roller coaster ride, Ben Affleck continues to inspire the audience with his sheer dedication and resilience in the world of acting.
