Why Ben Afflecks Character Lets Insects Crawl On Him Explained

In the 2016 action-thriller *The Accountant*, Ben Affleck delivers a compelling performance as Christian Wolff, a high-functioning autistic forensic accountant who uses his mathematical genius to launder money for dangerous criminal organizations. One of the film’s most memorable and eerie scenes involves Wolff calmly allowing ants to crawl over his hands and arms while sitting motionless in a forest clearing. This moment is not merely for shock value or cinematic flair—it serves as a window into the character’s psychology, sensory processing, and coping mechanisms. Understanding why Wolff permits this behavior requires a deeper look at neurodivergence, trauma, and the symbolic language of cinema.

The Psychological Profile of Christian Wolff

Christian Wolff is explicitly portrayed as being on the autism spectrum, though the film avoids reducing him to stereotypes. His routines are precise, his communication is direct, and he struggles with social cues—hallmarks of high-functioning autism. But beyond these traits, the film delves into how Wolff processes sensory input differently from neurotypical individuals.

For many people on the autism spectrum, tactile sensations can be either overwhelming or under-stimulating. Some experience hypersensitivity to touch, finding even light contact unbearable. Others, like Wolff, may seek out specific physical stimuli to regulate their nervous systems. Allowing insects to crawl on his skin isn’t an act of masochism or eccentricity; it’s a form of controlled sensory engagement. The consistent, predictable movement of ants across his skin provides a grounding effect—an anchor in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable.

“Individuals with autism sometimes use unusual sensory experiences to self-regulate. What seems extreme to others can be deeply calming.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Clinical Psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders

Sensory Regulation and Self-Stimulation

The act of letting insects crawl on his body falls under the broader category of stimming—short for self-stimulatory behavior. Common forms of stimming include hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating phrases. In Wolff’s case, his stimming is more unconventional but no less purposeful.

Stimming helps manage anxiety, focus attention, and process emotional overload. For someone in Wolff’s line of work—constantly calculating risks, anticipating threats, and navigating violent confrontations—the need for regulation is constant. The forest scene occurs after a high-tension sequence, suggesting that Wolff retreats into nature to reset. The ants become part of a ritual: predictable, non-threatening, and methodical in their movement, much like numbers on a spreadsheet.

Tip: When interpreting neurodivergent characters in film, consider how their behaviors serve functional purposes rather than just symbolic ones.

Symbolism and Cinematic Language

Beyond psychology, the ant scene carries strong symbolic weight. Ants are creatures of order, precision, and collective intelligence—qualities that mirror Wolff’s own nature. They operate with mathematical efficiency, build complex systems, and follow strict hierarchies. By aligning himself with them, even momentarily, Wolff finds kinship in their structured existence.

The director, Gavin O’Connor, uses visual parallels throughout the film between Wolff and insects. Close-ups of ants marching in formation are intercut with shots of Wolff moving through environments with similar precision. This parallelism reinforces the idea that Wolff doesn’t see himself as separate from the natural world—he sees patterns, systems, and logic where others see chaos.

Moreover, the choice of ants—small, numerous, and often overlooked—reflects how society tends to dismiss or misunderstand individuals like Wolff. Yet, beneath the surface, both ants and Wolff possess immense power and complexity.

Real-Life Parallels and Neurodivergent Experiences

While letting insects crawl on one’s body is uncommon, the underlying need for sensory control is shared by many neurodivergent individuals. A mini case study illustrates this:

Sarah, a 32-year-old data analyst diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, describes using textured stones during work meetings to maintain focus. “If I don’t have something to touch, my mind races. The sensation grounds me. It’s not about the stone—it’s about creating a predictable input in an unpredictable situation.”

Like Sarah, Wolff uses tactile feedback to stabilize his internal state. The difference lies in context: Wolff operates in life-or-death scenarios, so his methods are more extreme. But the principle remains the same—controlled sensory input enables cognitive clarity.

Do’s and Don’ts: Interpreting Neurodivergent Characters in Media

Do	Don’t
Consider the functional purpose behind unusual behaviors	Assume such behaviors are meant to portray “otherness” or danger
Look for patterns in routine, environment, and sensory triggers	Dismiss actions as mere quirks without narrative significance
Research real-world neurodivergent experiences for context	Rely solely on stereotypes or outdated portrayals
Analyze symbolism in relation to character psychology	Interpret symbolism as purely metaphorical without grounding in reality

Step-by-Step: How the Scene Builds Meaning

1. Establish Tension: The scene follows a violent confrontation, leaving Wolff physically safe but emotionally heightened.
2. Retreat to Nature: He walks into a quiet forest—visually and audibly distinct from urban or industrial settings.
3. Initiate Ritual: He removes his shoes, sits still, and places his hands on the ground—signaling intentional engagement.
4. Sensory Input Begins: Ants begin crawling on his skin; his breathing slows, indicating relaxation.
5. Cinematic Parallel: Cutaways to ant colonies reinforce thematic connection between individual and colony.
6. Return to Action: After several minutes, he rises, composed and ready—demonstrating the effectiveness of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is letting insects crawl on you a common stimming behavior?

No, it is not common, but the underlying need for tactile regulation is widespread among neurodivergent individuals. The specific method varies greatly depending on personal preference and environment.

Did Ben Affleck consult with autism experts for the role?

Yes, Affleck worked with behavioral consultants and studied real-life accounts of high-functioning autistic adults to inform his portrayal. While the character is fictional, efforts were made to avoid caricature.

Could this scene be interpreted as traumatic rather than therapeutic?

It could be read that way, but the film presents it as voluntary and repeated—indicating it’s a chosen coping strategy. Trauma responses are typically involuntary and distressing, whereas Wolff appears calm and in control.

Conclusion: Beyond the Surface Shock

The moment Ben Affleck’s character allows ants to crawl on him is one of the most quietly powerful scenes in *The Accountant*. It resists easy interpretation, blending psychological realism with poetic symbolism. Rather than sensationalizing neurodivergence, the film invites viewers to understand Wolff on his own terms—not as a broken man, but as someone who has developed unique strategies to survive in a world not built for him.

This scene reminds us that what appears strange or unsettling from the outside may be essential for inner balance. In portraying Wolff’s rituals with respect and nuance, the film elevates its storytelling beyond genre conventions.

💬 What did you think of this scene? Did it change how you viewed the character? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation about authentic representation in film.