Matt Damon discusses creative differences with Casey and Ben Affleck and making of 'The Instigators'

At the New York premiere of The Instigators on July 31, Matt Damon and Casey Affleck captivated the audience at Jazz at Lincoln Center. 

Damon, 53, shared insights with PEOPLE about his long-standing collaboration with the Affleck brothers, spanning over 25 years since co-writing Good Will Hunting with Ben Affleck. Despite their extensive partnership, Damon notes that there are "no surprises" in their professional relationships.

"We get in creative arguments," Damon said, "Those are healthy, and we know each other well enough that our feelings don't really get involved and our egos don't get involved." He emphasised that their interactions remain positive and constructive.

Damon and Affleck shot The Instigators in their hometown of Boston in 2023. The project almost faltered until Casey Affleck enlisted the help of Damon's wife, Luciana Barroso, to convince him to read the script. 

Barroso, who also produced the film, played a crucial role in the project’s development. Damon acknowledged, "When they say something, when they dig their heels in on something — any of them do — I pay attention."

The film, directed by Doug Liman and written by Casey Affleck and Chuck Maclean, features Damon and Affleck as a father and ex-con duo attempting to rob a corrupt politician. 

The cast also includes Hong Chau, Jack Harlow, Ron Perlman, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Alfred Molina.

In an interview with ExtraTV, Casey Affleck revealed that Barroso’s influence was pivotal in getting Damon involved, with Damon adding, “I just love the world and the characters.” 

The Instigators premieres in theatres on August 2 and will be available on Apple TV+ from August 9.