Netflix viewers have been left with unanswered questions about the identity of the kidnapper in the film Animals, starring Ben Affleck, Kerry Washington and Gillian Anderson. The culprit is a man named James Bureaux, whose motive is revealed through careful attention to the film's opening scenes.
Who is behind the kidnapping?
Before becoming a mayoral candidate, Mark Kimball (Ben Affleck) was a lawyer who successfully sued companies for polluting drinking water. His work led to the introduction of the Environmental Action Act, a strict clean water measure designed to protect Los Angeles residents.
This policy created a protected zone, forcing around 30 small businesses in the area to shut down, regardless of whether they were causing the pollution. Among those affected was James Bureaux, who lost his shop as a result of Mark's work.
The motive and the ending
Bureaux went bankrupt and his wife filed for divorce, leading him to orchestrate the kidnapping as an act of revenge. The plot involves an ominous call demanding $7 million for the return of Mark's son Denny, though it is later revealed the housekeeper's son was kidnapped by mistake.
In the final shootout, Dayle's (Gillian Anderson) assistant Rand (Chris Gann) fatally shoots the kidnappers. When Mark pulls off one of their masks, James' identity is revealed.
Despite the confusion over the ending, many fans have praised the film on IMDb, with one calling it a "winner for Netflix." Another said: "Best story I've seen in a long time, just loved it!" A third echoed: "I absolutely loved Animal! This movie completely won me over, and I give it a 10/10. Ben Affleck was excellent both behind the camera and on screen."
Animals is available to watch on Netflix.
