From SlashFilm · Chris Evangelista · · 1m
Animals Review: Ben Affleck's Netflix Thriller
Ben Affleck's Netflix thriller Animals fails to thrill despite AI use.
In brief
Ben Affleck's Netflix thriller Animals fails to thrill despite AI use. Ben Affleck's Netflix movie Animals is a disappointing thriller that fails to create tension, with critics noting its reliance on AI tools. Originally reported by SlashFilm.
AI use in Animals
Ben Affleck used AI for production in his Netflix movie Animals, reportedly creating shots quickly in post-production.
“we did use it. And in fact, I thought it was a good example because it's a very human movie. It's not in space, it doesn't have visual effects, but it allowed us to move in some cases more quickly, really mostly in post-production, to do things that otherwise we wouldn't have been able to do.”
Netflix's AI investment
Netflix bought Affleck's AI startup InterPositive for $587 million, but critics say this undermines the movie's authenticity.
“Netflix recently bought Affleck's AI startup company InterPositive for $587 Million”
Animals movie plot
Mark Kimball, a wealthy LA lawyer running for mayor, faces a kidnapping crisis with his family after Halloween.
“Mark lives with his wife Abigail (Kerry Washington) and their son Danny (Christopher Woodley) in a sprawling mansion overseen by friendly housekeeper Cecilia (Adriana Paz).”
Weak thriller execution
The movie lacks tension despite high stakes, with characters screaming and ominous music but no real danger.
“Affleck never manages to convey any real sense of danger. His approach is to simply have all the characters scream at each other as the camera wooshes around the room and the soundtrack hits a few ominous notes.”
Cast performance
Gillian Anderson's character Dale is the standout, playing an enigmatic figure that the audience can't fully understand.
“Anderson is the best of the bunch, fully embracing ice queen status to play Dayle as an enigma we just can't quite figure out.”
Film rating and release
Animals received a 4 out of 10 rating and streams on Netflix October 9, 2026.
“Animals is streaming on Netflix October 9, 2026”
The short version
Ben Affleck's Netflix movie Animals is a disappointing thriller that fails to create tension, with critics noting its reliance on AI tools.
