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In the 1990s, faced with the challenge of establishing themselves as actors in Hollywood, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon took matters into their own hands by co-writing the screenplay for Good Will Hunting. Initially conceived as a means to create roles for themselves, the classic drama unexpectedly catapulted them into the limelight, solidifying their positions as two of Hollywood’s most prominent stars.
Since that pivotal moment, Affleck and Damon have forged a formidable cinematic partnership, collaborating on various on-screen projects and establishing their own movie production company. Their latest joint venture, the heartwarming sports film Air, delves into the true story behind the creation of the iconic Air Jordan sneakers, earning acclaim for its sharp charm and an ensemble cast that has captivated audiences.
The enduring strength of Affleck and Damon’s cinematic synergy is evident in Air, affirming that their collaborative magic remains undiminished over time. With a chemistry that rivals the best romantic comedy leads, their on-screen dynamic continues to captivate audiences. While not explicitly suggesting a romantic comedy starring the duo, the idea is not entirely dismissed.
As Air gains recognition, it is poised to join the ranks of Good Will Hunting when enthusiasts, particularly fathers worldwide, reflect on the greatest collaborations between Affleck and Damon. However, this narrative omission overlooks a criminally underrated and inexplicably neglected gem in the duo’s filmography—The Last Duel.
Released in 2020, The Last Duel unfolds as a sensitive historical drama set in 14th century France, boasting an impressive cast and a healthy dose of action. Jodie Comer stars as Marguerite, with Matt Damon as her husband Sir Jean de Carrouges, Adam Driver as Jacques Le Gris, and Ben Affleck as Count Pierre d’Alençon. The film is structured into three main acts, each retelling the central story of Marguerite’s accusation of sexual assault through the perspectives of three different characters.
Despite the potential monotony of repeated narratives, The Last Duel maintains engagement through outstanding worldbuilding, stellar performances, and a climactic battle that keeps viewers invested in Marguerite’s evolving story. What elevates the film to near-modern classic status is its commitment to compassionate storytelling, standing as a testament to the storytelling prowess of Ridley Scott.
The Last Duel contends with The Martian for the title of Ridley Scott’s best film since Black Hawk Down, and it boasts a secret weapon that sets it apart—Ben Affleck. While Affleck’s role as Count Pierre d’Alençon is not a leading one, his supporting presence, particularly in scenes with Damon, leaves an indelible mark on the narrative. Affleck revels in portraying the antagonistic and arrogant Count, casting a thorny shadow that complements Damon’s noble and ego-driven character.
Despite the dynamic performances of Affleck and Damon, The Last Duel faced a challenging box-office run, earning only $30 million against a reported $100 million budget during the height of the pandemic. However, the film found redemption on the Disney Plus streaming service, where it awaits eager viewers. The Last Duel deserves recognition alongside Good Will Hunting and Air, standing as one of Ridley Scott’s finest works, fueled by phenomenal performances from Comer, Affleck, and Damon. Despite its initial cinema reception, the film merits a place among cinematic greats, reinforcing its importance in the pantheon of Affleck and Damon collaborations.