Ben Affleck: Modern Master SBIFF 2013

Reviewed by Sandra Doyle. Viewed at the Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara. Much like the salmon, as a critic you sometimes find yourself swimming with the tide and sometimes against it. This couldn’t apply better to Ben Affleck’s career in the film industry, which has lasted decades, and throughout it he has received criticism and acclaim accordingly. In recent years Affleck has began to direct films as well as continue acting and has proved to be a multi-talented filmmaker on the rise in Hollywood today. His latest film, “Argo,” (Fall 2012) which he directed and also starred in, was based off of a real political situation between Iran and the USA in 1979. Argo has been successful with audiences and critics alike and although it is set in the seventies it is eerily relevant of our relationship with the Middle East today. Ben Affleck greeted ecstatic fans outside the Arlington on a drizzly Friday evening. He made a point to talk to the press as well where he seemed slightly overwhelmed yet remained calm. Due to his promise and proved success as a director he was presented with the Modern Master award by childhood friend and fellow actor/screenwriter Matt Damon. Affleck began the evening reminiscent of his acting career, which he started at eight years old alongside Matt Damon even then. Affleck reflected on the roles he played and projects he chose to be a part of with self-deprecation at times but also an intelligent analysis. Clips from various films he has acted in were shown and then left open for his discussion. After turning back the clock to “Dazed and Confused” Ben had a good laugh and said that it is a movie that will stand the test of time despite his bowl cut hairstyle and the moment where he hazes a fraternity member with a wooden paddle. As for his experience with “Shakespeare in Love,” Affleck was drawn to the project because he was so impressed with the writing and said it was “the best script I’ve ever read.” He can clearly appreciate good writing considering he co-wrote “Good Will Hunting” (1997) with Matt Damon, which launched his career forward immensely. Now as a director he finds it interesting to look back on his work of various roles and notice how the director edited his performance. Affleck also displayed wise insight needed from a directing standpoint, stating, “You have to project confidence as a leader because you have to have your crew believe in you. Also that when you are surrounded by a lot of talented people you need to inspire them, tell them you believe in them. This only motivates them to do better, to feel empowered and confident of   themselves.” It seems that Affleck knows how to encourage a cast and crew and claims that his work ethic is what has gotten him where he is in his career today. Elaborating on that idea Affleck said that he isn’t one of those talents that can just show up and go, instead he takes his time preparing heavily beforehand. Regardless of his method, Ben Affleck has found what suits him and it seems to be working.