It’s been more than 25 years since the world became aware that Ben Affl eck existed and his rise to stardom, in tandem with his friend Matt Damon, is one of the most intriguing origin stories in Hollywood history.
Two young guys, best mates since primary school, decided they wanted to be actors, so they wrote their own movie script, sold it to a studio, acted in it and became instant global superstars. If it was a film plot, no one would think it was in the least bit credible.
Over the years, Ben and Matt have remained best friends, but have carved out very separate careers for themselves. Now both in their fifties, they have tied themselves together once again by starting their own production company called Actors Equity.
And this month, their first movie, Air – based on the true story of how the Air Jordan sneaker came into existence – has been released.
In addition to producing it, they also both star in the film and it is, says Ben, the first of many projects the friends intend to work on together, just like the old days. “The reason it works is that I trust him and love him, and I know that this is somebody with integrity,” says Ben of the pals’ new business venture. “In this business, failure is hard, and success is confusing and can make you lose your bearings. Having that friendship is a touchstone.”
Working together isn’t the only way in which Ben and Matt’s lives have reconnected.
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