Ben Affleck and Matt Damon Headline Netflix’s Gripping Crime Thriller, “The Rip”
Netflix is poised to kick off 2026 with a high-octane crime thriller, “The Rip,” starring Hollywood mainstays Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. Director Joe Carnahan confidently proclaims the film “the most entertaining film you’re going to see this year,” despite it being only January, promising a twist-filled narrative that will thoroughly engross viewers.
A Real-Life “Rip” Inspires a Tense Thriller
The film centers around Affleck and Damon as Miami police officers who stumble upon a staggering $20 million (£14.8m) in a safehouse. The ensuing night becomes a pressure cooker as they meticulously count the money while grappling with mounting suspicion. The story is rooted in a true event experienced by one of Carnahan’s friends, a narcotics officer who participated in an actual “rip” – Miami slang for seizing illicit assets like cash, drugs, or weapons.
“In real life you have to count the money twice on the scene, which took them in the actual story 42 hours!” Carnahan explained, noting the dramatic liberties taken to condense the timeline for cinematic effect.
A Long-Awaited Reunion for Hollywood’s Favorite Duo
Affleck and Damon, known for their enduring friendship and collaborative successes, take on the roles of Lieutenant Dane Dumars and Detective Sergeant J.D. Byrne, respectively. Carnahan revealed that the casting was a natural fit, stating, “I always saw Matt as Dumars and I always saw Ben as J.D.,” and that both actors were enthusiastic about the project. Beyond their on-screen presence, the pair also served as producers through their company, Artists Equity.
Carnahan emphasized the significance of this project, calling it “the biggest film of my career.” He previously collaborated with Affleck on “Smokin’ Aces” and directed the 2010 remake of “The A-Team” starring Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper, as well as writing “Bad Boys for Life.” He attributes much of the film’s success to the collaborative spirit and professionalism of the cast and crew.
A Stellar Supporting Cast and Critical Acclaim
“The Rip” boasts a strong supporting cast including Golden Globe winner Teyana Taylor as Detective Numa Baptiste, alongside Kyle Chandler, Steven Yeun, Sasha Calle, and Catalina Sandino Moreno. The film has already garnered positive attention, debuting on Rotten Tomatoes with an 82% approval rating. Critics have lauded it as “one of Netflix’s most confidently cinematic thrillers in recent memory” and a compelling “who done it.”
The narrative is further enriched by the authenticity brought by the cast, with Sandino Moreno praising Damon and Affleck’s dedication to their roles, noting they embodied the spirit of actors on set rather than producers. Calle echoed this sentiment, highlighting the welcoming and collaborative atmosphere fostered by the leads.
A Focus on Realism and Repeat Viewability
Carnahan believes the film’s intricate plot and attention to detail will reward repeat viewings. He anticipates audiences will be eager to revisit the film, uncovering nuances they may have missed on the first watch. The director also shared that actors like Sandino Moreno and Calle benefited from guidance from real-life law enforcement professionals, adding a layer of authenticity to their performances. Sandino Moreno, who plays Detective Lolo Salazar, specifically worked with a TNT (Tactical Narcotics Team) officer, while Calle enjoyed the opportunity to safely handle firearms on set.
“It’s beautiful to walk into a space where every character has their importance and has their drive,” Calle remarked, reflecting on the ensemble dynamic.
“The Rip” is currently streaming exclusively on Netflix.
