Recently, it was revealed that Ben Affleck is not only directing but will also star in the upcoming Netflix thriller ‘Animals,’ following Matt Damon‘s exit from the project. Initially announced last year, ‘Animals’ was set to feature Damon but faced script issues, prompting Netflix to step back. However, new reports confirm that the film has been revived, with Affleck taking the lead role alongside co-star Gillian Anderson.
The production of ‘Animals’ is slated to begin in April 2024 in Los Angeles, although no official release date has been confirmed yet. This development comes just months before Affleck is expected to reprise his role as Christian Wolff in ‘The Accountant 2,’ the sequel to the successful 2016 thriller that starred J.K. Simmons and Anna Kendrick. While Kendrick’s involvement in the sequel remains unconfirmed, Simmons will return as Ray King, joining Jon Bernthal, who is also set to reprise his role as Brax.
It seems that Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are not feeling disappointed over the changes in ‘Animals.’ The duo is also set to collaborate in another project titled ‘RIP,’ a police procedural and martial arts thriller. Directed by Joe Carnahan, this film will feature Kyle Chandler and is currently in the writing phase with Michael McGrale.
Many speculate that Damon’s inability to participate in ‘Animals’ stems from his commitment to headline ‘The Odyssey,’ directed by Christopher Nolan. This project, which includes actors Tom Holland, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong’o, is scheduled to start filming soon and will shoot across various international locations, likely causing conflicts with the production schedule for ‘Animals.’
Damon was among the first names to be connected to ‘The Odyssey.’ Following his role in Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer,’ this could be an opportunity for Damon to step into a leading role similar to that of Cillian Murphy in the recent biographical epic.
As ‘Animals’ gears up for production in a few months, anticipation builds among fans. While no specific release date has been established, updates on the film will continue to emerge as it progresses. The involvement of Ben Affleck in both directing and starring roles not only signals a significant shift for the project but also emphasizes his versatility and talent within the film industry.
