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16 April, 2025
WB Spotlight: Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck: A Cinematic Journey through Drama, Thriller, and Action, Exploring the Depth and Diversity of an Award-Winning Career
Born on August 15, 1972, in California, Ben Affleck has been a key figure in the film industry for over 30 years, as an actor, writer and director. He won his first Oscar at just 25 years old, for Best Original Screenplay (Good Will Hunting), which he shares with his childhood friend Matt Damon. Affleck remains the youngest ever recipient of an Oscar for screenwriting.
Affleck's career has shied away from predictability, taking on a mix of impactful indie films and major blockbuster hits. Many of his films have been released by Warner Bros., and another career highlight was winning his second Academy Award, for the critically acclaimed Argo, which he directed as well as starred in.
In 2025 we see him return as Christian Wolff, who we first met in The Accountant, with the recently released sequel, The Accountant 2.
Read on to find out more about a few of Ben Affleck's iconic roles…
The Accountant
Affleck stars as Christian Wolff, a math savant with more affinity for numbers than people. Behind the cover of his small-town CPA office, he works as a freelance accountant for some of the world's most dangerous criminal organisations. With the Treasury Department's Crime Enforcement Division, run by Ray King (J.K. Simmons), starting to close in, Christian takes on a legitimate client: a state-of-the-art robotics company where an accounting clerk (Anna Kendrick) has discovered a discrepancy involving millions of dollars. But as Christian uncooks the books and gets closer to the truth, it is the body count that starts to rise. The acclaimed cast also includes Jon Bernthal, Jeffrey Tambor and John Lithgow.
The Accountant 2
As we know, Christian Wolff (Affleck) has a talent for solving complex problems. When an old acquaintance is murdered, leaving behind a cryptic message to “find the accountant,” Wolff is compelled to solve the case. Realising more extreme measures are necessary, Wolff recruits his estranged and highly lethal brother, Brax (Jon Bernthal), to help. In partnership with U.S. Treasury Deputy Director Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson), they uncover a deadly conspiracy, becoming targets of a ruthless network of killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.
About Christian Wolff
Christian Wolff has exceptional skills in math and combat. Originally named Chris, he often changes his name to keep his life secret because he works with dangerous criminals while also secretly helping others. To maintain his anonymity, Christian uses fake identities. At the end of The Accountant, Christian shows his softer side by donating money to the Harbor Neuroscience Institute, but he continues his secretive work. This blend of danger and kindness makes his character intriguing.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the films?
Who directed the films?
Where can you watch the films?
You can watch The Accountant here andThe Accountant 2 in cinemas now.
Argo
Ben Affleck directs and stars in this real-life political intelligence dramedy based on a true story. Produced by George Clooney and Grant Heslov's Smokehouse Pictures, this hostage rescue picture follows CIA "exfiltration" operative and master of disguise Tony Mendez (Affleck), who sets out to rescue a handful of American diplomats hiding out in 1979 Tehran. Pretending to be a film location scouting crew, Mendez and a motley crew of Hollywood artists, escape artists and con-artists smuggle the six embassy workers to safety in a daring rescue. With a supporting cast that includes Alan Arkin, John Goodman and Bryan Cranston, Affleck's political satire represents an "escape" into a real-world caper.
About Tony Mendez
Tony Mendez, portrayed by Ben Affleck, is a real CIA operative who played an important role in rescuing six American diplomats from Iran. The operation involved the creative idea of using a fake movie production as a cover story, which Mendez devised based on his expertise in disguise and deception. The plan required creating a fictional sci-fi film titled "Argo", convincing Hollywood figures to support it, and selling it as a genuine project to Iranian authorities. Tony Mendez was not alone during this, as he worked closely with both the CIA and Canadian officials to pull off the mission successfully. While Ben Affleck's portrayal is considered accurate and respectful of Mendez’s real-life work.
In addition to his professional life, the film also explores his personal life, showing him as a committed family man to his wife, Jolene, highlighting the personal sacrifices behind his critical role in the mission. Mendez's innovative tactics and successful execution of the plan led to widespread recognition after the declassification of the event, establishing "Argo" as one of his most famous cases.
Is Argo based on a true story?
Yes! It’s based on the CIA’s secret 1979 mission to rescue six American diplomats from Iran.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck directed Argo.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Finding The Way Back
Jack Cunningham (Ben Affleck) once had a life filled with promise. In high school, he was a basketball phenom with a full university scholarship, when suddenly, for reasons unknown, he walked away from the game, forfeiting his future. Now years later, Jack is spiraling down, triggered by an unspeakable loss, and drowning in the alcoholism that cost him his marriage and any hope for a better life.
When he is asked to coach the basketball team at his alma mater, which has fallen far since his glory days, he reluctantly accepts, surprising no one more than himself. As the boys start to come together as a team and win, Jack may have finally found a reason to confront the demons that have derailed him. But will it be enough to fill the void, heal the deep wounds of his past, and set him on the road to redemption?
About Jack Cunningham
Jack Cunningham was once a highly promising basketball player but turned to alcohol and self-destructive behaviour after personal tragedies. Taking on the role of a reluctant basketball coach, Jack is forced to confront his demons—his grief, ongoing battle with alcohol, and feelings of guilt. As he forms a meaningful connection with his team through their collective struggles and triumphs, Jack finds a path to his own healing. This journey allows him to learn about acceptance and forgiveness, and slowly, he begins to rediscover a sense of purpose in life, both on and off the court. Ben Affleck was drawn to this role due to its emotional depth and parallels to his own real-life struggles with addiction and personal hardship, making the role deeply significant and personal for him. This narrative is not just about basketball but Jack’s transformative journey towards reclaiming his life and identity.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
Who directed the films?
Gavin O’Connor directed Finding The Way Back.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Hypnotic
Determined to find his missing daughter, detective Danny Rourke instead finds himself spiraling down a rabbit hole while investigating a series of reality-bending bank robberies where he will ultimately call into question his most basic assumptions about everything and everyone in his world. Aided by Diana Cruz, an unnervingly gifted psychic, Rourke simultaneously pursues and is pursued by a lethal specter - the one man he believes holds the key to finding the missing girl - only to discover more than he ever bargained for.
About Danny Rouke
Detective Danny Rourke, portrayed with depth and complexity, deals with the profound grief of losing his daughter, a trauma that haunts him throughout his investigation. Despite his emotional challenges, Rourke is depicted as a dedicated and skilled detective, though his case is complicated by the psychological manipulations he encounters, including the manipulation of his own memories. Rourke is driven by a potent mix of motives including the need for justice, revenge, and a deep-seated desire to reconcile with his painful past, particularly regarding the unresolved mystery surrounding his daughter's disappearance. His relationship with the criminal hypnotist, a key figure in the plot, brings personal stakes to the forefront as he discovers how the hypnotist's control might be linked to his own tragedies. Despite his flaws and the emotional scars, many viewers find Danny Rourke to be a likable and sympathetic character, appreciating his determination to overcome personal loss and professional challenges.
How does hypnosis play a role in Hypnotic?
The movie centres around a criminal hypnotist who uses his abilities to manipulate memories and control people, and Rourke finds himself tangled in this mind game.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
Robert Rodriguez directed Hypnotic.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
The Town
There are over 300 bank robberies in Boston every year. And a one-square-mile neighborhood in Boston, called Charlestown, has produced more bank and armored car robbers than anywhere in the U.S.
One of them is Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck), but he is not cut from the same cloth as his fellow thieves. Unlike them, Doug had a chance at success, a chance to escape following in his father's criminal footsteps. Instead he became the leader of a crew of ruthless bank robbers, who pride themselves on taking what they want and getting out clean. The only family Doug has are his partners in crime, especially Jem (Jeremy Renner), who, despite his dangerous, hair-trigger temper, is the closest thing Doug ever had to a brother.
However, everything changed on the gang's last job when Jem briefly took a hostage: bank manager Claire Keesey (Rebecca Hall). When they discover she lives in Charlestown, Jem gets nervous and wants to check out what she might have seen. Knowing what Jem is capable of, Doug takes charge. He seeks out Claire, who has no idea that their encounter is not by chance or that this charming stranger is one of the men who terrorised her only days before.
As his relationship with Claire deepens into a passionate romance, Doug wants out of this life and the town. But with the Feds, led by Agent Frawley (Jon Hamm), closing in and Jem questioning his loyalty, Doug realises that getting out will not be easy and, worse, may put Claire in the line of fire. Any choices he once had have boiled down to one: betray his friends or lose the woman he loves.
About Doug MacRay
Doug MacRay is a fictional character loosely based by Chuck Hogan's novel "Prince of Thieves," which was inspired by real-life bank robberies in Boston. Doug, deeply entrenched in a life of crime, seeks a way out after falling in love with Claire Keesey, a bank manager his crew had previously taken hostage. His relationship with Claire makes him reconsider his criminal lifestyle, especially as tension rises between him and his volatile childhood friend and crew member, James "Jem" Coughlin. Struggling with a past due to his mother’s abandonment and his father's incarceration, Doug is driven by a complex mix of guilt, loyalty, and a newfound desire to protect Claire. Despite the risks, he ultimately decides to leave Boston for Florida, leaving Claire money to ensure her safety and symbolize his hope for her better life. This decision to leave, along with his final act of donating part of his ill-gotten money, reflects his efforts to break away from his past and seek redemption.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck himself directed The Town.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Live By Night
Ben Affleck writes, directs, produces and stars in this crime drama based on the novel by Dennis Lehane (Mystic River, Shutter Island, Gone Baby Gone). Produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, this gangster saga follows a rising young outlaw in Prohibition-era Boston (Affleck) who climbs the ranks of organised crime to find himself caught between two rival gangs...and two women.
About Joe Coughin
Joe Coughlin is a complex character tangled in the world of organised crime during the Prohibition era. The son of a prominent police captain, Joe rebels against his upbringing, spiraling into a life of crime. His journey deepens after a tumultuous affair with Emma Gould, the girlfriend of a mob boss, which propels him into a network of mobsters and corrupt officials.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck himself directed Live By Night.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Affleck's career has shied away from predictability, taking on a mix of impactful indie films and major blockbuster hits. Many of his films have been released by Warner Bros., and another career highlight was winning his second Academy Award, for the critically acclaimed Argo, which he directed as well as starred in.
In 2025 we see him return as Christian Wolff, who we first met in The Accountant, with the recently released sequel, The Accountant 2.
Read on to find out more about a few of Ben Affleck's iconic roles…
Christian Wolff (The Accountant, The Accountant 2)
The Accountant
Affleck stars as Christian Wolff, a math savant with more affinity for numbers than people. Behind the cover of his small-town CPA office, he works as a freelance accountant for some of the world's most dangerous criminal organisations. With the Treasury Department's Crime Enforcement Division, run by Ray King (J.K. Simmons), starting to close in, Christian takes on a legitimate client: a state-of-the-art robotics company where an accounting clerk (Anna Kendrick) has discovered a discrepancy involving millions of dollars. But as Christian uncooks the books and gets closer to the truth, it is the body count that starts to rise. The acclaimed cast also includes Jon Bernthal, Jeffrey Tambor and John Lithgow.
The Accountant 2
As we know, Christian Wolff (Affleck) has a talent for solving complex problems. When an old acquaintance is murdered, leaving behind a cryptic message to “find the accountant,” Wolff is compelled to solve the case. Realising more extreme measures are necessary, Wolff recruits his estranged and highly lethal brother, Brax (Jon Bernthal), to help. In partnership with U.S. Treasury Deputy Director Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson), they uncover a deadly conspiracy, becoming targets of a ruthless network of killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.
About Christian Wolff
Christian Wolff has exceptional skills in math and combat. Originally named Chris, he often changes his name to keep his life secret because he works with dangerous criminals while also secretly helping others. To maintain his anonymity, Christian uses fake identities. At the end of The Accountant, Christian shows his softer side by donating money to the Harbor Neuroscience Institute, but he continues his secretive work. This blend of danger and kindness makes his character intriguing.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the films?
- Jon Berthal plays Brax (The Accountant and The Accountant 2)
- Anna Kendrick plays Dana Cummings (The Accountant)
- Cynthia Addai-Robinson plays Marybeth Medina (The Accountant and The Accountant 2)
- J.K. Simmons plays Ray King (The Accountant and The Accountant 2)
- John Lithgow plays Lamar Blackburn (The Accountant)
Who directed the films?
- Gavin O’ Connor directed both The Accountant and The Accountant 2.
Where can you watch the films?
You can watch The Accountant here andThe Accountant 2 in cinemas now.
Tony Mendez (Argo)
Argo
Ben Affleck directs and stars in this real-life political intelligence dramedy based on a true story. Produced by George Clooney and Grant Heslov's Smokehouse Pictures, this hostage rescue picture follows CIA "exfiltration" operative and master of disguise Tony Mendez (Affleck), who sets out to rescue a handful of American diplomats hiding out in 1979 Tehran. Pretending to be a film location scouting crew, Mendez and a motley crew of Hollywood artists, escape artists and con-artists smuggle the six embassy workers to safety in a daring rescue. With a supporting cast that includes Alan Arkin, John Goodman and Bryan Cranston, Affleck's political satire represents an "escape" into a real-world caper.
About Tony Mendez
Tony Mendez, portrayed by Ben Affleck, is a real CIA operative who played an important role in rescuing six American diplomats from Iran. The operation involved the creative idea of using a fake movie production as a cover story, which Mendez devised based on his expertise in disguise and deception. The plan required creating a fictional sci-fi film titled "Argo", convincing Hollywood figures to support it, and selling it as a genuine project to Iranian authorities. Tony Mendez was not alone during this, as he worked closely with both the CIA and Canadian officials to pull off the mission successfully. While Ben Affleck's portrayal is considered accurate and respectful of Mendez’s real-life work.
In addition to his professional life, the film also explores his personal life, showing him as a committed family man to his wife, Jolene, highlighting the personal sacrifices behind his critical role in the mission. Mendez's innovative tactics and successful execution of the plan led to widespread recognition after the declassification of the event, establishing "Argo" as one of his most famous cases.
Is Argo based on a true story?
Yes! It’s based on the CIA’s secret 1979 mission to rescue six American diplomats from Iran.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
- Bryan Cranson plays Jack O’Donnell.
- Alan Arkin plays Lester Sigel.
- John Goodman plays John Chambers.
- Victor Garber plays Ken Taylor.
- Tate Donovan plays Bob Anders.
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck directed Argo.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Jack Cunningham (Finding The Way Back)
Finding The Way Back
Jack Cunningham (Ben Affleck) once had a life filled with promise. In high school, he was a basketball phenom with a full university scholarship, when suddenly, for reasons unknown, he walked away from the game, forfeiting his future. Now years later, Jack is spiraling down, triggered by an unspeakable loss, and drowning in the alcoholism that cost him his marriage and any hope for a better life.
When he is asked to coach the basketball team at his alma mater, which has fallen far since his glory days, he reluctantly accepts, surprising no one more than himself. As the boys start to come together as a team and win, Jack may have finally found a reason to confront the demons that have derailed him. But will it be enough to fill the void, heal the deep wounds of his past, and set him on the road to redemption?
About Jack Cunningham
Jack Cunningham was once a highly promising basketball player but turned to alcohol and self-destructive behaviour after personal tragedies. Taking on the role of a reluctant basketball coach, Jack is forced to confront his demons—his grief, ongoing battle with alcohol, and feelings of guilt. As he forms a meaningful connection with his team through their collective struggles and triumphs, Jack finds a path to his own healing. This journey allows him to learn about acceptance and forgiveness, and slowly, he begins to rediscover a sense of purpose in life, both on and off the court. Ben Affleck was drawn to this role due to its emotional depth and parallels to his own real-life struggles with addiction and personal hardship, making the role deeply significant and personal for him. This narrative is not just about basketball but Jack’s transformative journey towards reclaiming his life and identity.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
- Al Madrigal plays Dan.
- Janina Gavankar plays Angela.
- Michaela Waykins plays Beth.
- Brandon Wilson plays Brandon Durrett.
Who directed the films?
Gavin O’Connor directed Finding The Way Back.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Detective Danny Rourke (Hypnotic)
Hypnotic
Determined to find his missing daughter, detective Danny Rourke instead finds himself spiraling down a rabbit hole while investigating a series of reality-bending bank robberies where he will ultimately call into question his most basic assumptions about everything and everyone in his world. Aided by Diana Cruz, an unnervingly gifted psychic, Rourke simultaneously pursues and is pursued by a lethal specter - the one man he believes holds the key to finding the missing girl - only to discover more than he ever bargained for.
About Danny Rouke
Detective Danny Rourke, portrayed with depth and complexity, deals with the profound grief of losing his daughter, a trauma that haunts him throughout his investigation. Despite his emotional challenges, Rourke is depicted as a dedicated and skilled detective, though his case is complicated by the psychological manipulations he encounters, including the manipulation of his own memories. Rourke is driven by a potent mix of motives including the need for justice, revenge, and a deep-seated desire to reconcile with his painful past, particularly regarding the unresolved mystery surrounding his daughter's disappearance. His relationship with the criminal hypnotist, a key figure in the plot, brings personal stakes to the forefront as he discovers how the hypnotist's control might be linked to his own tragedies. Despite his flaws and the emotional scars, many viewers find Danny Rourke to be a likable and sympathetic character, appreciating his determination to overcome personal loss and professional challenges.
How does hypnosis play a role in Hypnotic?
The movie centres around a criminal hypnotist who uses his abilities to manipulate memories and control people, and Rourke finds himself tangled in this mind game.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
- Alice Braga plays Diana Cruz.
- JD Pardo plays Nicks.
- Jeff Fahrey plays Carl Everett.
- Jackie Earle Haley plays Jeremiah.
- William Fichtner plays Dellrayne.
Robert Rodriguez directed Hypnotic.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Doug MacRay (The Town)
The Town
There are over 300 bank robberies in Boston every year. And a one-square-mile neighborhood in Boston, called Charlestown, has produced more bank and armored car robbers than anywhere in the U.S.
One of them is Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck), but he is not cut from the same cloth as his fellow thieves. Unlike them, Doug had a chance at success, a chance to escape following in his father's criminal footsteps. Instead he became the leader of a crew of ruthless bank robbers, who pride themselves on taking what they want and getting out clean. The only family Doug has are his partners in crime, especially Jem (Jeremy Renner), who, despite his dangerous, hair-trigger temper, is the closest thing Doug ever had to a brother.
However, everything changed on the gang's last job when Jem briefly took a hostage: bank manager Claire Keesey (Rebecca Hall). When they discover she lives in Charlestown, Jem gets nervous and wants to check out what she might have seen. Knowing what Jem is capable of, Doug takes charge. He seeks out Claire, who has no idea that their encounter is not by chance or that this charming stranger is one of the men who terrorised her only days before.
As his relationship with Claire deepens into a passionate romance, Doug wants out of this life and the town. But with the Feds, led by Agent Frawley (Jon Hamm), closing in and Jem questioning his loyalty, Doug realises that getting out will not be easy and, worse, may put Claire in the line of fire. Any choices he once had have boiled down to one: betray his friends or lose the woman he loves.
About Doug MacRay
Doug MacRay is a fictional character loosely based by Chuck Hogan's novel "Prince of Thieves," which was inspired by real-life bank robberies in Boston. Doug, deeply entrenched in a life of crime, seeks a way out after falling in love with Claire Keesey, a bank manager his crew had previously taken hostage. His relationship with Claire makes him reconsider his criminal lifestyle, especially as tension rises between him and his volatile childhood friend and crew member, James "Jem" Coughlin. Struggling with a past due to his mother’s abandonment and his father's incarceration, Doug is driven by a complex mix of guilt, loyalty, and a newfound desire to protect Claire. Despite the risks, he ultimately decides to leave Boston for Florida, leaving Claire money to ensure her safety and symbolize his hope for her better life. This decision to leave, along with his final act of donating part of his ill-gotten money, reflects his efforts to break away from his past and seek redemption.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
- Rebecca Hall plays Claire Keesey.
- Jon Hamm plays FBI Special Agent Adam Frawley.
- Jeremy Renner plays Jem.
- Blake Lively plays Krista.
- Pete Postlethwaite plays Fergie.
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck himself directed The Town.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.
Joe Coughlin (Live By Night)
Live By Night
Ben Affleck writes, directs, produces and stars in this crime drama based on the novel by Dennis Lehane (Mystic River, Shutter Island, Gone Baby Gone). Produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, this gangster saga follows a rising young outlaw in Prohibition-era Boston (Affleck) who climbs the ranks of organised crime to find himself caught between two rival gangs...and two women.
About Joe Coughin
Joe Coughlin is a complex character tangled in the world of organised crime during the Prohibition era. The son of a prominent police captain, Joe rebels against his upbringing, spiraling into a life of crime. His journey deepens after a tumultuous affair with Emma Gould, the girlfriend of a mob boss, which propels him into a network of mobsters and corrupt officials.
Who stars alongside Ben Affleck in the film?
- Elle Fanning plays Loretta Figgis.
- Brendan Gleeson plays Thomas Coughlin.
- Chris Messina plays Dion Bartolo.
- Sienna Miller plays Emma Gould.
- Zoë Saldana plays Graciela.
Who directed the films?
Ben Affleck himself directed Live By Night.
Where can I watch the film?
You can watch it here.