Ben Affleck’s Action Thrillers Ranked: From Flops to Masterpieces

Ben Affleck has built a remarkable Hollywood career, often gravitating toward action thrillers packed with high stakes and moral dilemmas. His filmography in this genre is a mix of bold risks, some that paid off and others that missed the mark. Let’s break down his action-packed roles, from the least successful to the most acclaimed.

Early Struggles and Missed Opportunities

In Reindeer Games (2000), Affleck plays Rudy Duncan, a recently released convict who gets pulled into a casino heist. While Affleck brings charm to the role, the film ’s weak script and muddled plot keep it from rising above its flaws. Hypnotic (2023) casts him as Detective Danny Rourke, a father searching for his missing daughter amid a web of psychics and shadowy figures. Despite an intriguing premise, critics found the execution lacking, though some enjoyed its unpredictable twists.

His turn as Batman in Justice League (2017) was overshadowed by production troubles and a lukewarm reception. Although Zack Snyder’s later cut improved the story, the original left many fans disappointed. Affleck’s earlier superhero outing, Daredevil (2003), saw him as blind lawyer Matt Murdock. Despite his efforts, the film failed to capture the depth of the character, especially when compared to later adaptations.

Finding His Footing

With The Accountant (2016), Affleck took on the role of Christian Wolff, a brilliant but socially challenged accountant with a dangerous side. The film’s unique blend of action and character study resonated with audiences, leading to a sequel. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) brought Affleck’s Batman face-to-face with Superman, but the film’s potential was undercut by a convoluted plot, even as Affleck and Henry Cavill delivered strong performances.

In Triple Frontier (2019), Affleck leads a group of ex-special forces operatives on a high-stakes heist. His portrayal of Tom Davis, a retired soldier desperate for a new start, added depth to the film, which received mixed but generally positive reviews. The director ’s cut of Justice League (2021) gave Affleck’s Batman more room to shine, earning praise for its improved storytelling and character development.

Critical Highs and Award Winners

Changing Lanes (2002) pits Affleck against Samuel L. Jackson after a minor car accident spirals into a tense battle of wills. The film’s gripping narrative and strong performances made it a standout in his early 2000s work. The Accountant 2 (2025 ) reunites Affleck with Jon Bernthal, as their characters unravel a dangerous conspiracy. The chemistry between the leads and intense action sequences have already impressed viewers.

In The Last Duel (2021), Affleck takes on a supporting role in Ridley Scott ’s historical drama, playing a corrupt nobleman. The film’s unique structure, telling the same story from multiple perspectives, showcases Affleck’s range. The Town (2010), which Affleck also directed, follows a crew of Boston bank robbers. His nuanced performance and sharp direction earned widespread acclaim.

At the top of the list is Argo (2012), where Affleck directs and stars as CIA operative Tony Mendez. Based on the true story of a daring rescue during the Iran hostage crisis, the film swept the Oscars, including Best Picture, and solidified Affleck’s reputation as both a leading man and a filmmaker.

Ranking Overview

Here’s a quick look at how these films stack up, from the lowest to the highest rated: Reindeer Games, Hypnotic, Justice League, Daredevil, The Accountant, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Triple Frontier, Zack Snyder’s Justice League, Changing Lanes, The Accountant 2, The Last Duel, The Town, and Argo. Affleck’s journey through action thrillers reveals a career marked by growth, resilience, and a willingness to take creative risks.