Hollywood heavyweights Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have reunited on screen, but their latest venture for streaming giant Netflix has been met with a decidedly lukewarm reception. The film, a crime thriller titled 'The Rip', directed by Joe Carnahan, has been criticised for its lack of substance and character development, with some suggesting it's tailored for an audience perpetually distracted by their smartphones.
A High-Concept Reunion That Falls Flat
Premiering on Netflix, The Rip sees the long-time friends and collaborators playing Miami police officers working on a tactical narcotics team. Damon takes on the role of Lieutenant Dane Dumars, while Affleck portrays Detective Sergeant JD Byrne. The central plot kicks into gear when the duo discovers a staggering sum of over $20 million during a 'rip' – a police operation to seize illicit funds. This windfall immediately sows seeds of potential betrayal and conflict between the partners, setting the stage for a tense, action-packed narrative.
Despite the considerable star power of its two leads, the film has been widely panned for failing to leverage their chemistry or talents effectively. Critics have pointed to a significant lack of meaningful character development, with the dialogue singled out for particular scorn. The script has been described as simplistic and functional, seemingly written for viewers who might only be giving the film a fraction of their attention.
Wasted Talent and a Troubling Narrative Trend
The criticism extends beyond the two headline stars. The Rip boasts a formidable supporting cast, including Steven Yeun, Catalina Sandino Moreno, and Teyana Taylor. However, reviews consistently note that these talented performers are given little to do, their roles feeling underwritten and peripheral to the thin main plot. This underutilisation has been highlighted as a major missed opportunity for the film.
Furthermore, the film has been noted as part of a recurring and concerning theme in recent Netflix productions. The Rip is said to portray its police characters with unquestionable authority and a distinct lack of consequences for their actions, a narrative approach that has drawn scrutiny in an era of heightened debate around policing and accountability.
The Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
Ultimately, The Rip arrives as a significant disappointment. Released on Friday 16 January 2026, the project that promised a dynamic reunion between two of Hollywood's most famous friends has resulted in what critics are calling a 'charmless dud'. The film appears to prioritise slick visuals and a straightforward premise over compelling storytelling or depth, leaving audiences with a forgettable experience that does little justice to its cast or its potential. For fans of Affleck and Damon, this is one reunion that might be best left in the past.
