Find out how Ben Affleck’s teeth were important in the promotion of Armageddon and the creation of the character
Ben Affleck didn’t just have a role in Armageddon; At a cost of $20,000, he changed the smile for himself. This change was not a superficial demand, but a careful production decision to meet Hollywood’s aesthetic needs and market a high-quality science fiction film.
The importance of a perfect smile
In Hollywood, the perfect smile isn’t just a matter of vanity, it’s a vital tool in an actor’s arsenal, especially in blockbusters like Armageddon. Affleck’s white and well-aligned teeth not only improved his appearance, but also increased the credibility of his character, an oil driller turned astronaut. The impact was so great that the film’s director, Michael Bay, said these aesthetic details were crucial to selling the film: “This trailer will go in and sell tickets!”
In order to transform Affleck into the hero AJ Frost, the team not only required him to fix his teeth, but also to undergo the necessary physical therapy and skin tightening sessions. This level of detail may seem excessive, but it’s a testament to Bay and producer Jerry Bruckheimer’s commitment to the film’s aesthetic. In the DVD commentary, Bay reveals that they invested $20,000 in a dog trained to attack the Godzilla dolls, a sum that takes into account the value of Affleck’s smile.
Armageddon’s impact at the box office
The result of all these aesthetic interests was not only a box office success that grossed more than $553 million worldwide, but also a film that set the standard for visual effects and appeal necessary in big-budget filmmaking. Affleck’s smile, though expensive, proved to be a profitable investment that enhanced the audience experience and contributed significantly to the film’s profitability.
For Affleck, the process was more than a physical transformation. It was a lesson in the importance of detail and appearance in film. “I was a bit naive about people’s opinions of me … or Michael and Jerry’s approach to beauty,” the actor said. Although he felt defensive at first, he later realized that every element, from his smile to his body, contributed to his role and the film as a whole.
Affleck’s role in Armageddon not only reinvented his career, but also paved the way for future iconic roles, including his portrayal of Batman.
From Indomitable Will Hunting to Accountant.
Ben Affleck has proven to be a versatile actor with a film career spanning across genres and decades. One of his first roles that left an indelible mark was in Wild Will Hunting, where he played Chucky, Will’s loyal friend. His performance, coupled with the success of the script he co-wrote with Matt Damon, catapulted Affleck to stardom, demonstrating his ability to connect emotionally with audiences.
In the action thriller The Town, Affleck not only acted but also directed the film, demonstrating his ability to handle complex storylines and strong characters. His role as Charlestown bank robber Doug McRae won acclaim from critics and audiences alike, establishing his reputation as a multifaceted talent.
Affleck’s other notable role was in The Accountant as Christian Wolff, a forensic accountant with more skills than social media. This character delves into themes like autism and justice, showing Affleck’s ability to play characters with psychological depth. The actor’s complexity and flawless performance offered a more nuanced view of his acting prowess.
These roles not only expanded Affleck’s career but also left a mark on the industry, proving his ability to go beyond traditional heartthrob roles to tackle complex and challenging characters.