Ben Affleck’s successful career in Hollywood has seen him don many hats including that of actor, writer, and director. Over the years, Affleck has starred in his fare share of blockbuster films and critically acclaimed projects that have cemented his place as one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood.
In 2019, Ben Affleck starred in the heist action film Triple Frontier directed by J.C Chandor in which he shared screen space with other prominent actors like Oscar Isaac and Pedro Pascal. While the film received generally favorable responses from critics, the backstory leading to its production and the Good Will Hunting star’s involvement was an interesting one.
Tom Hanks Almost Replaced Ben Affleck In Triple Frontier
Ben Affleck’s adventure film Triple Frontier was in the works for almost 10 years prior to its release in 2019. Back in 2009, when the script was finalized, Oscar winner and The Hurt Locker director Kathryn Bigelow was originally on board to direct the film. At the time of casting, Ben Affleck was not even in contention to be part of the film. Among a bunch of A-listers who were shortlisted including Javier Bardem and Denzel Washington, Will Smith, and Leonardo DiCaprio, another Oscar winner Tom Hanks was also in line to play one of the 5 lead roles.
Hanks ultimately did not confirm to be part of the film. While the exact reasons for his absence or the details of the role he was to play was never officially known, many felt that the Philadelphia actor may not have convinced audiences by playing a morally grey character for which he was allegedly considered for. Ben Affleck was then roped in to play one of the 5 leads in the film but according to reports, did not replace Tom Hanks for the same role. Kathryn Bigelow too finally stepped down from directing the film as she was reportedly tied up with writing the script of Zero Dark Thirty.
Ben Affleck And Jennifer Lopez Will Reunite On Screen For Unstoppable
In one of the most anticipated pairings, Ben Affleck will reunite on screen with his wife Jennifer Lopez 20 years after their last film together,Gigli. The film titled Unstoppable is a sports drama that focuses on the real-life story of Anthony Robles, an athlete born with only one leg who still managed to win the national championship at Arizona State University. The Argo star was all praise for the Latina singer-actor for her involvement and said,
“I think she’s terrific. I think she’s a great actor. It’s always exciting to work with her.”
Unstoppable will be directed by William Goldenberg, who makes his directorial debut after editing several of Affleck’s films, including Argo and Live by Night. Despite their last film not lighting up the box office, audiences will be eager to witness Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez’s chemistry on screen after almost two decades.
Source: Collider
