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The Early Days of Ben Affleck and Matt Damon
Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have become household names, celebrated for their contributions to cinema. However, their journey to fame started humbly in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where they were aspiring actors eager for any opportunity in the industry. One memorable experience came when they took on extra roles in Kevin Costner‘s iconic 1989 sports film, Field of Dreams. This film holds nostalgic value for many, but the actors have a different perspective on their time as uncredited extras.
During a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Affleck reminisced about how he and Damon secured their roles in Field of Dreams, explaining that their early careers involved taking whatever acting gigs were available. They were both “serious actors from a very young age” and had a local casting director who kept them informed of upcoming projects. This relationship led to their extra work on Costner’s beloved film. Despite Costner’s claims of remembering them, Affleck humorously dismissed this notion, suggesting that the acclaimed actor was simply being gracious.
“Kevin is being kind, saying he remembers us, because we were not memorable. We were just annoying,” Affleck remarked. He pointed out that the film set was bustling with numerous people, making it unlikely for Costner to recall two extras in the background. “It’s sweet of him to say that, but I’m pretty sure he remembers the actors with lines,” he added.
Reflecting on his experience, Affleck shared that his first encounter with Costner was awe-inspiring. Having admired Costner’s work in films such as Bull Durham and The Untouchables, Affleck recalled feeling as if he were seeing a deity. “Him and James Earl Jones. It was like a real movie,” he said, noting the significant impact that the experience had on him. “It was two days. We got to be in Fenway Park. Everything about it felt so big time.”
Ben Affleck Shines in ‘The Accountant 2’
Regardless of Costner’s recollections, Affleck and Damon’s paths diverged significantly after those early years, leading them to become major Hollywood figures. Affleck is currently making headlines with the release of The Accountant 2, the much-anticipated sequel to his successful 2016 film. Critics have responded positively, granting the film a Certified Fresh rating of 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences responding even more favorably, reflected in its impressive 92% on the Popcornmeter.
On the other hand, Costner is working to continue his Western saga, Horizon, despite challenges following the underwhelming performance of its first part. The future release of the remaining chapters is still uncertain.
The excitement surrounding The Accountant 2 invites audiences to witness Affleck’s latest work, currently screening in theaters. For those feeling nostalgic, Field of Dreams is also available to stream on Netflix, while the first part of Costner’s saga, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, can be watched on Max.
Source: Jimmy Kimmel Live
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movieweb.com