Golden Globes Backstage 2013: Argo's Ben Affleck Too "Elated" to Feel Snubbed

Affleck says he's thrilled with film's seven Oscar nominations--and surprise Globe wins

Ben Affleck is stewing over his Oscar snub. Just not the one you think.

"I also didn't get the acting nomination," Affleck told reporters backstage at the 70th Annual Golden Globes. "I noticed no one was saying i was snubbed there."

It was a good line—and it was a joke. Sunday was a night for celebration as Affleck and his hit political thriller Argo surprised Steven Spielberg and Lincoln with big wins for Best Director and Best Motion Picture Drama.

Affleck's victory was all the more notable as it came three days after the filmmaker failed to rate a long-expected Best Director nod at the Academy Awards.

As he had done earlier at the Critics Choice Awards, Affleck refused to sound anything but a sunny note.

"We got nominated for seven Oscars," reminded a relaxed Affleck, his tuxedo shirt hanging untucked. "I'm thrilled. I'm elated. I'm elated tonight."

George Clooney, who produced Argo along with Affleck and Grant Heslov, allowed he was "disappointed" that Affleck was shut out of Oscar's Best Director field, but likewise remained upbeat, especially about the film's Best Picture chances. 

"We're not dead," Clooney said.