Casey Affleck Reclaims 'Outsider' Status and Reveals 'Company' Is Still in Post-Production
Casey Affleck used a Zurich Film Festival masterclass to discuss his new film 'Company,' which remains in post-production despite its Venice premiere. He embraced the label of a Hollywood 'outsider,' recalled his 'traumatic' 2016 Oscar win, and shared an anecdote about calling Christopher Nolan for advice on 'Tenet.'
Key points
- Affleck’s third directorial feature, 'Company,' is not yet finished; he is using festival screenings to gather feedback before finalizing the cut.
- The film, a mystery set in 1975, stars Nick Nolte, Ben Mendelsohn, and Affleck’s sons Atticus and Indiana, and is dedicated to his late parents.
- Affleck admitted to calling Nolan’s wife to reach the director to settle a disagreement about 'Tenet,' a call he later regretted as the answer was obvious.
- He described his 2016 Oscar win for 'Manchester by the Sea' as 'mildly traumatic,' noting he forgot to thank key collaborators and was comforted by Leonardo DiCaprio.
- Affleck rejected the 'insider' label, stating he prefers being an outsider because he does not love the Hollywood system or its typical output.
Background
Affleck’s recent public appearances have been marked by personal loss; he previously revealed at the Venice Film Festival that both his parents, Timothy and Chris Affleck, died earlier in 2026. 'Company' was dedicated to them. The film had its world premiere in Venice, where Affleck’s brother Ben and son Indiana also attended.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter and Variety both covered the Zurich masterclass, highlighting Affleck’s candid tone. THR emphasized his rejection of the 'insider' label and his praise for Nolan’s artistic integrity. Variety focused on the logistical aspect of 'Company' being unfinished and Affleck’s humorous anecdote about calling Nolan. Both outlets noted his description of the Oscar win as 'traumatic' and his gratitude toward DiCaprio. Yahoo’s coverage focused primarily on his comments regarding Matt Damon, describing Damon as a 'showoff' compared to Affleck’s own path.
Why it matters
Affleck’s comments offer insight into the challenges of independent filmmaking within the Hollywood ecosystem and the personal toll of high-profile awards. His decision to screen an unfinished film at major festivals highlights a modern approach to audience feedback and post-production.
What to watch
Affleck plans to finalize 'Company' after incorporating feedback from festival screenings. The film will continue its circuit run, with the 22nd Zurich Film Festival running until October 4.
- Casey Affleck on Matt Damon Rivalry, a Chris Nolan Phone Call and Being a Proud “Hollywood Outsider” The Hollywood Reporter
- Nine Years After Casey Affleck’s First Oscar Win, He Calls the Whole Experience ‘Mildly Traumatic’ People.com
- Ben Affleck’s Brother Has Blunt Take on Matt Damon: ‘Always a Bit of a Showoff’ Yahoo
- Casey Affleck explains why he ‘hasn’t’ heard from Christopher Nolan in a while Entertainment Weekly
- Casey Affleck Recalls ‘Traumatic’ Oscars Night, Praises Christopher Nolan, and Says ‘Company’ Isn’t Finished Yet: ‘There Are Things I Want to Change’ Variety
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