Everything
These two stars have come a long way in 22 years. Hailing from the city of Boston, partners in crime Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are one of Hollywood’s favourite duos and whilst their careers have involved different paths, their friendship has remained legendary. Thanks to the iconic film Good Will Hunting which saw their fame skyrocket almost overnight, both Damon and Affleck have gone onto win a slew of awards, but its their 1997 Academy Award win for Best Original Screenplay which will never be forgotten.
The internet is a wonderful place and after a quick search we’ve uncovered what could be one of the greatest acceptance speeches in Oscars history. No, it wasn’t Tom Hanks teary speech in 1995 or any of Meryl Streep’s wins throughout the years, but there was something utterly endearing and inspirational about these two wide-eyed kids breaking into the industry.
“I just said to Matt that losing would suck and winning would be really scary. And this is really, really scary,” Affleck admitted on the Oscars stage.
Standing side-by-side, it was clear that Affleck’s mind was running at a million miles and barely keeping up with his mouth, the pair attempted to thank everyone. Only 20-something at the time, their age was apparent but refreshing amongst the longtime pioneers who sat before them.
“You know, we’re really just two young guys who were fortunate enough to be involved with a lot of great people whom, and its come upon us – there is no way we’re doing this in less than 20 seconds,” Affleck stuttered. The pair then went on to reel off a long list of cast members and those from the production team, before thanking their parents who were sitting amongst the crowd. With time running out Affleck and Damon, a humorous panic set in.
“Gah I know we’re forgetting somebody. Whoever we forgot we love you and thank you, thank you so much!” Thrusting their awards in the air, it was clear that these two were going to make a mark in the industry. And that they did.
The Academy Awards will air in Australia on Monday, February 10 from 12pm AEDT.
