Ben Affleck recently provided a candid and amusing account of his time on the set of Michael Bay's 1998 sci-fi epic, "Armageddon." During a pivotal and emotionally charged scene alongside Bruce Willis, Affleck found himself battling a severe case of food poisoning. Despite the debilitating illness, the actor, then less experienced, felt compelled to continue filming, leading to an unexpected and memorable on-set experience. He humorously recounted how the involuntary physical reactions might have inadvertently added a layer of authenticity to his performance.
Affleck's experience occurred during the filming of a critical moment in "Armageddon," where Bruce Willis' character, Harry S. Stamper, makes the ultimate sacrifice to save Earth from an approaching asteroid, effectively swapping places with Affleck's A.J. Frost. This scene, intended to be deeply moving, was complicated by Affleck's gastrointestinal distress. He humorously detailed how he was literally vomiting off-camera between takes, a testament to his dedication and the unexpected challenges of filmmaking. He even mused that the genuine discomfort might have lent a raw, visceral quality to his portrayal of A.J. Frost's emotional turmoil.
Reflecting on the unique circumstances, Affleck expressed that this was the only time in his career he had to endure such an extreme physical ailment during filming. He admitted to not being seasoned enough at the time to call in sick, a decision that ultimately led to this peculiar yet memorable anecdote. This behind-the-scenes glimpse highlights the often-unforeseen difficulties actors face and their commitment to their craft, even when battling personal discomfort.
Beyond the food poisoning incident, Affleck also spoke warmly of his overall experience working on "Armageddon." He cherished the opportunity to collaborate with a stellar ensemble cast, including legendary actors like Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Steve Buscemi, Owen Wilson, Michael Clarke Duncan, and Liv Tyler. He particularly praised Willis for his kindness and professionalism on set, noting that the veteran actor was "really nice to everybody." This camaraderie among the cast members contributed to a positive working environment despite the film's intense production schedule and demanding stunts.
The actor recently reconnected with co-star Steve Buscemi, with whom he shared fond memories of the "otherworldly" filming experience. Their conversation underscored the unique and unforgettable nature of creating such a large-scale blockbuster. Affleck also playfully revisited his past work, particularly his infamous DVD commentary for "Armageddon," which he humorously declared his "best work" in his filmography during a recent appearance on Criterion's "Closet Picks." This self-deprecating remark underscores his ability to find humor in his career, even in unexpected places.
The production of "Armageddon" provided Affleck with a singular and unforgettable journey in his early career. From battling food poisoning during intense emotional scenes to forming lasting connections with a talented cast, the film left an indelible mark. His humorous recounting of the challenges and his enduring appreciation for the collaborative experience offer a charming insight into the making of a classic blockbuster.