Ben Affleck's career resurrection as a well-respected director just got a big boost from his latest film, "Argo." The CIA movie based on a true story had an impressive opening weekend, taking the No. 2 spot at the box office with $20.1 million.

Affleck started his career, however, as an actor and then writer, alongside childhood pal Matt Damon. There were a few bumps in the road, (remember Gigli?), but "The Town" actor-director has made a dent in Hollywood with his smart, fast-paced films in recent years. Check out the gallery above to map out Affleck's journey from wunderkind, tabloid fodder, to eventually, a successful filmmaker.