By Rodwell Andy.
Ben Affleck expressed his thoughts on the evolving landscape of filmmaking in today’s era of Netflix and various streaming services, which generate an ever-growing array of content.
The actor, producer, and director, who is launching a new film studio with his friend and collaborator Matt Damon in partnership with RedBird Capital Partners, shared his insights on Netflix’s method of filmmaking, comparing it to a “production line.”
Affleck remarked that creating films “requires focus, commitment, and effort, resisting the typical production line approach,” referring to Netflix, while attending the New York Times 2022 DealBook Conference last week.
“[Netflix’s head of original films] Scott Stuber is a highly talented, intelligent individual whom I genuinely respect…but it’s an overwhelming task,” he noted.
The “Argo” star also mentioned that if you were to ask Netflix co-CEO and chairman Reed Hastings about their ambitious plan to produce 50 remarkable films, “he’d say, ‘Hey, we aimed for quantity to establish a presence.’ I’m sure there’s logic in that, and there’s likely a solid strategy, but I would have questioned, ‘How are we going to create 50 exceptional films per year? How is that feasible?’ There’s no committee large enough; it’s simply unattainable.”
Affleck recognized that “there’s a larger audience for action films than for intimate dramas. I understand that. Certain genres appeal more broadly, and one must acknowledge that. But let’s aim for excellence, let’s astound the audience, let’s make them care.”
At Artists Fairness, positioned as a creator-driven studio, Affleck and his team aspire to transform the dynamics between studios, artists, and crews in the industry.
As reported in Variety, Artists Fairness already has its first project underway – an untitled drama about the inception of Nike’s highly popular Air Jordan sneaker line. Written and directed by Affleck, the film features Damon as the executive who secured the endorsement deal with Chicago Bulls superstar Michael Jordan.
