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'The Rip' starring Ben Affleck and Matt Damon set for Netflix release

Jan 16, 2026, 12:00 AM40
(Update: Jan 19, 2026, 6:45 AM)
American film actor, director and screenwriter
American actor, screenwriter, and producer
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'The Rip' starring Ben Affleck and Matt Damon set for Netflix release

  • Netflix is releasing a new film starring Ben Affleck and Matt Damon today.
  • The film explores the tense relationships among Miami cops amidst corruption and discovery of cash.
  • Critics express concern over the film's ability to engage viewers effectively.
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Story

The long-awaited film featuring renowned actors Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, titled 'The Rip,' is premiering today on Netflix, exclusively available to subscribers. This production, which has been in the making for an extended period due to several delays, now takes center stage as it rolls out to viewers at midnight PT. The narrative follows two Miami police officers, played by Damon and Affleck, whose partnership is severely tested after stumbling upon a large cache of money in an abandoned stash house. The movie highlights the strains on their relationship and the moral dilemmas they face amid corruption and trust issues within the police force. Accompanied by a diverse cast that includes Teyana Taylor, Steven Yeun, Scott Adkins, Kyle Chandler, and others, both Affleck and Damon share screen space as they delve deeper into their characters' backgrounds and challenges. Lieutenant Dane Dumars, portrayed by Damon, is depicted as a man grappling with personal loss and financial pressures, while Detective Sergeant JD Byrne, played by Affleck, is unable to gain a promotion and is depicted as struggling with the aftermath of a recent tragedy involving a police captain. As the plot unfolds, outside pressures and the newfound discovery put their loyalty and ethics to the test. In a world where viewers increasingly engage with content while multitasking on their devices, critics have voiced concerns over the film’s ability to capture attention given its pacing and dialogue, often considered shallow and aimed at distracted audiences. There are apprehensions that the film might fail to resonate with viewers looking for substantial character development or intense storytelling. Despite the challenges that might be present in the storytelling, the familiarity and camaraderie shared between Affleck and Damon bring a level of charm that many audiences remain excited to see. This feature's significance lies not only in its star-studded lineup but also in its exploration of complex themes such as trust, family, and survival in a flawed system, ultimately inviting viewers to consider the implications of loss and loyalty against a backdrop of crime and chaos. Their fans are hopeful that the combined talents of the cast and Joe Carnahan's direction can transcend the typical pitfalls seen in similar narratives while successfully bringing the unique story to life for a modern audience.

Context

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are two of Hollywood's most iconic figures, known not only for their acting prowess but also for their successful collaborations and contributions to the film industry. Both born in 1972, they grew up as childhood friends in Cambridge, Massachusetts, fostering a bond that would later translate into numerous successful projects. Their journey in the film industry began in earnest in the 1990s, with a notable breakthrough coming in 1997 when they co-wrote and starred in "Good Will Hunting." This film won them an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, establishing their reputation as talented writers and actors. The success of this film paved the way for their future collaborations and led to a series of successful projects that showcased their unique chemistry both on and off screen. Following their initial success, Affleck and Damon continued to engage in various projects together, further solidifying their status in Hollywood. They produced the film "The Last Duel" in 2021, which was based on real events and showcased their ability to tackle complex narratives. Beyond their collaborations, both actors have taken on diverse roles throughout their careers, captivating audiences with performances in films such as "The Town" and "Argo" for Affleck, and "The Martian" and "Ford v Ferrari" for Damon. Each actor has also ventured into directing and producing, with Affleck receiving critical acclaim for "Argo," while Damon has been involved in various independent projects that reflect his commitment to storytelling. Throughout their careers, both Affleck and Damon have been vocal about social issues and have used their platform to advocate for various causes, including education and environmental conservation. Their partnership has evolved not just in the realm of filmmaking, but also in philanthropy, where they have engaged in several charitable initiatives. By establishing the Eastern Congo Initiative, Damon has focused on humanitarian efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while Affleck founded the Eastern Congo Initiative to bring awareness to the struggles faced by people in the region. As of January 2026, both Affleck and Damon continue to remain influential figures in the industry, with projects in development that highlight their ongoing commitment to quality storytelling. Their filmography reflects a blend of commercial successes and critically acclaimed films that have traced a trajectory of growth and evolution as filmmakers and actors. Their narrative, marked by personal and professional growth, displays a unique friendship that has been a driving force behind their artistic endeavors, making Ben Affleck and Matt Damon enduring icons in contemporary cinema.

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