Netflix has unveiled the full trailer for "Animals," a gripping crime thriller directed by and starring Ben Affleck. The film, set to premiere on October 9, 2026, follows a Los Angeles mayoral candidate whose life spirals into chaos when his son is kidnapped.
Why it matters: "Animals" examines the lengths parents will go to protect their children, intertwining themes of marriage and political ambition. The film raises questions about how far one would stretch their moral boundaries in a crisis.
Affleck plays Mark Kimball, a mayoral candidate whose seemingly perfect family life unravels when his son Denny is abducted.
Kerry Washington stars as Abigail, Mark's wife, as they navigate the dangerous waters of ransom demands and hidden secrets.
The film also features a talented ensemble cast, including Gillian Anderson, Steven Yeun, Adriana Paz, Ray Fisher, Matt Gerald, and Luis Gerardo Méndez.
Driving the news: The recently released trailer showcases a tension-filled narrative, beginning with images of the family's idyllic life before a phone call shatters their peace. Viewers see the couple's frantic efforts to secure their son's safe return.
The dialogue-free teaser builds suspense through visual storytelling, highlighting the emotional stakes at play.
As the plot thickens, the couple is forced to confront the external threat and the internal struggles within their marriage.
Gillian Anderson's character, Dayle, emphasizes the urgency of their situation, indicating that their son's survival hinges on their honesty and teamwork.
State of play: Affleck's decision to direct and star in "Animals" marks a notable return to the thriller genre, following his previous works like "Argo" and "Live by Night." The film's production has seen its share of challenges.
Originally, Matt Damon was slated to play the lead role, with Jennifer Gardner considered for the part of Abigail.
Production was halted just two weeks before filming when Affleck learned that Spike Lee was working on a similar kidnapping-themed project.
After some time, Affleck revived the project but had to take on the lead role himself after Damon became unavailable due to other commitments.
The big picture: The film explores not just the immediate crisis of a kidnapping but also the broader implications of personal and political relationships.
Affleck describes the film as a deep exploration of marriage, attachment, and the compromises couples make for one another.
He expressed a desire to work with Jennifer Gardner in the future but acknowledged the emotional baggage that could complicate their collaboration.
The film's narrative intertwines the urgency of a kidnapping with the strains of a political career, creating a complex story.
What they're saying: In interviews, Affleck has shared his thoughts on the film's themes and his experiences during production.
“It’s really about marriage – what it means to attach yourself to someone, the bargains and exchanges,” Affleck said, emphasizing the film's focus on complex relationships.
He also highlighted the challenges of casting, particularly the desire to coordinate schedules with Gardner to spend time with their children.
Affleck maintains a cordial relationship with Gardner, indicating a mutual respect that centers around their co-parenting efforts.
By the numbers: "Animals" runs for 1 hour and 48 minutes, offering a compact yet intense viewing experience.
The film is produced in partnership with Artists Equity, a company co-founded by Affleck, Damon, and Gerry Cardinale.
It is set to be available for streaming on Netflix, alongside a lineup of other new films premiering this fall.
With a focus on high-stakes drama, "Animals" positions itself as one of the must-watch films of the upcoming season.
What's next: As anticipation builds for the film's release, viewers can expect a mix of thrilling moments and emotional depth.
"Animals" will begin streaming on Netflix on October 9, 2026, coinciding with a wave of new releases across various platforms.
Fans of Ben Affleck and Kerry Washington are eager to see their performances in this intense narrative, which promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Affleck's return to directing and acting in a thriller format is highly anticipated, marking a notable moment in his career.