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It’s unlikely that Matt Damon harbors any sense of rivalry with his close friend Ben Affleck, especially considering Damon’s involvement in the highly successful Jason Bourne franchise and their frequent collaborations. However, there was a moment when Damon’s decision to pass on a role in one of Affleck’s films, “The Town,” raised some eyebrows.
“The Town,” released in 2010, marked Affleck’s second directorial effort and garnered critical acclaim as one of the standout thriller movies of the year. However, Damon’s absence from the cast initially raised questions. Affleck shed some light on the matter during an interview on The Ringer podcast, explaining that they couldn’t afford Damon for the role.
“Matt Damon cost what the movie cost,” Affleck quipped, suggesting that Damon’s fee would have significantly impacted the film’s budget. Damon, in jest, acknowledged his success during the Bourne series but clarified that his decision wasn’t solely based on financial considerations.
In truth, Damon revealed that he didn’t like the script when he first read it. He found it lacking and expressed his concerns to his agent upon learning that Affleck had taken on the project. Damon’s initial reaction was one of disbelief and apprehension, fearing that Affleck would proceed with a subpar script. However, when he discovered that Affleck intended to direct the film himself and undertake a complete rewrite, Damon’s worries were assuaged.
Ultimately, Affleck’s dedication to rewriting the script from scratch convinced Damon that the project was in good hands. His initial skepticism turned into relief, acknowledging Affleck’s commitment to improving the material. This anecdote highlights the collaborative and supportive relationship between Damon and Affleck, demonstrating their mutual respect and trust in each other’s talents.