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Matt Damon and Ben Affleck reunite in 'The Rip': a gripping crime drama you can't miss

MOVIE

Alyssia Birjalal|Published

Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in a scene from "RIP"

Image: Instagram.

Nearly 30 years after their breakthrough movie, "Goodwill Hunting", Matt Damon and Ben Affleck will be sharing the screen in their upcoming crime thriller, "The Rip". 

This collaboration marks another chapter in their long-standing friendship that dates back to elementary school in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where their journey began as neighbours and best friends.

The film, directed by writer Joe Carnahan, known for his work on films such as "Narc" and "Smokin’ Aces", features a stellar cast that includes Steven Yeun, Kyle Chandler, Teyana Taylor, Catalina Sandino Moreno, and Sasha Calle. 

Produced by Artists Equity, the artist-led studio founded by Damon and Affleck in 2022, "The Rip" promises a gripping narrative infused with personal experience and the classic spirit of 1970s cop thrillers.

Carnahan said in an online interview: "Working with Matt and Ben and having two, distinctly talented filmmakers, as both creative allies and the studio heads, wound up being the best of both worlds." 

He added that the process on set was a breeze, with Damon and Affleck providing unwavering support for his creative decisions.

"The Rip" revolves around a team of Miami cops who, after discovering millions in cash in a derelict stash house, find their trust starting to erode.

As outside forces get wind of the astounding seizure, the film delves into the murky waters of trust and loyalty.

"The title for 'The Rip' is simply Miami cop parlance for 'taking the bad guy's stuff,' which is known as ‘ripping’ it", Carnahan explained.

Damon and Affleck, who are now established A-list actors and producers, first gained fame for co-writing "Good Will Hunting", which won them an Oscar.

Despite their numerous accolades, the pair have shared the screen in a limited number of films together.

The duo recently teased "The Rip" during the Netflix Tudum 2025: The Live Event, where Affleck jokingly said: "I trusted Matt would shave the beard before Tudum - and here we are."

Damon is currently sporting a beard for his role as Odysseus in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film "The Odyssey".

Affleck described "The Rip" as "a really fun, engaging ride that keeps you guessing", promising a compelling human drama that intertwines moral dilemmas with thrilling cinematic elements reminiscent of classics like "Heat" and "Narc".

"The Rip" is set for a global release on Netflix on January 16, 2026.