Ben Affleck’s New Kidnapping Thriller "Animals" Is Now Filming – Cast, Plot & More

Ben Affleck is back in the director’s chair, and this time, he’s bringing an intense kidnapping thriller to Netflix. His upcoming film, Animals, is officially in production and boasts an all-star cast, including Gillian Anderson, Kerry Washington, Steven Yeun, and Ray Fisher.

Fresh off his role in Joe Carnahan’s thriller RIP, Affleck will not only direct but also star in the film, which is expected to be one of Netflix’s most gripping releases.

Here’s everything we know so far about Animals—the cast, production details, and what to expect from this high-stakes thriller.

Ben Affleck Takes the Lead – As Director & Star

Affleck is no stranger to Hollywood’s biggest hits. The Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Argo and star of Gone Girl is bringing his storytelling expertise to Animals.

The film is written by Connor McIntyre and Billy Ray, with Affleck at the helm as both director and lead actor. Given his track record of crafting intense, award-winning films, expectations for Animals are already sky-high.

Meet the Star-Studded Cast

Animals features a powerhouse lineup of actors, including several Emmy winners and Oscar nominees:

. Ben Affleck (Gone Girl, The Town, Argo)
. Gillian Anderson (The Crown, Scoop)
. Kerry Washington (Scandal, The Six Triple Eight, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery)
. Steven Yeun (BEEF, Minari, RIP)
. Ray Fisher (Zack Snyder’s Justice League, The Piano Lesson)
. Luis Gerardo Méndez (Club de Cuervos, Murder Mystery)

. Adriana Paz (Emilia Pérez, Spectre)
. Mark Kassen (Puncture, PH-1)
.. Christopher Woodley (Our Son, Law & Order: SVU)

With such a diverse and talented cast, Animals promises intense performances and gripping drama.

What Is "Animals" About?

While Netflix has yet to release an official synopsis, Animals is described as a high-stakes kidnapping thriller set in Los Angeles.

Affleck’s past work suggests a film packed with suspense, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists. If it’s anything like his previous thrillers (Gone Girl, The Town), we can expect a dark, gripping story that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Who’s Producing "Animals"?

The film is being produced by Artists Equity, the artist-led studio founded by Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and Gerry Cardinale (of RedBird Capital).

Other key producers include:

. Dani Bernfeld
. Brad Weston (Makeready)
. Collin Creighton (Makeready)

The project was developed in collaboration with Fifth Season, ensuring top-tier production quality.

Where Is "Animals" Filming?

Production for Animals is currently underway in Los Angeles, making the city an integral part of the film’s setting.

Producers have emphasized their commitment to keeping jobs local and reinforcing LA’s status as a global filmmaking hub.

This choice mirrors Affleck’s previous films (The Town, Argo), where setting plays a crucial role in storytelling.

When Will "Animals" Be Released on Netflix?

Netflix has yet to confirm an official release date, but given that production is in full swing, a late 2025 or early 2026 release is likely.

Stay tuned for trailers, first-look images, and behind-the-scenes updates as filming continues!

Why "Animals" Could Be One of Netflix’s Biggest Thrillers

With a proven director, a stellar cast, and an intense premise, Animals has all the ingredients for a must-watch thriller.

Affleck’s experience in crafting suspenseful, emotionally charged stories (Argo, Gone Girl, The Town) makes this a highly anticipated project for both crime-thriller lovers and Netflix subscribers alike.

Should You Be Excited for "Animals"?

. Ben Affleck is directing and starring
. A-list cast including Kerry Washington & Steven Yeun
. Thrilling kidnapping storyline
. High production quality from Artists Equity & Netflix

If you love dark thrillers, crime dramas, and gripping storytelling, Animals should be at the top of your Netflix watchlist.