Animals: New Thriller from Matt Damon and Ben Affleck

Hollywood dream team Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have made a name for themselves over the years with movies such as "Good Will Hunting" and "The Last Duel". Now, according to Deadline, the two friends are working on their next big thriller: "Animals"

Originally, Ben Affleck was to direct and Matt Damon was to play the lead role. However, this plan had to be changed as Damon has signed up for Christopher Nolan's new film "The Odyssey", which will be released in cinemas on July 17, 2026. So while he is in front of Nolan's camera, Affleck is taking the opportunity to direct "Animals" himself – and take on the lead role as well. However, Damon will remain involved in the project as a producer.

Affleck has already proven several times that he has a lot to offer both as a director and as a leading actor. Films such as "Argo" and "The Town" speak for themselves.

While specific details about the plot of "Animals" are still under wraps, it is known that it centers on a kidnapping. Alongside Affleck, "The X-Files" star Gillian Anderson is also on board – although it remains a mystery as to which role she will play.

Filming is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, but there is still a lot to do before then, especially when it comes to the cast. An official release date has yet to be announced, but a premiere in 2026 seems likely.

The Movies of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are two of Hollywood's best-known actors and filmmakers. They have had a close friendship since their youth, which has not only proved its worth in their private lives, but also professionally. They have worked together on several movies, both as actors and as screenwriters and producers. Here is a brief overview of some of the most notable projects they have both been involved in.

Good Will Hunting (1997)

The movie that significantly shaped their careers was "Good Will Hunting". Affleck and Damon co-wrote the screenplay, while Damon took on the lead role of the highly gifted but socially isolated math genius Will Hunting. Affleck played his best friend Chuckie. The film was a huge success and earned the pair an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The movie was directed by Gus Van Sant, while Robin Williams won an Oscar for his supporting role as psychologist Dr. Sean Maguire. "Good Will Hunting" established Affleck and Damon in Hollywood and laid the foundation for their future careers.

Dogma (1999)

Following the success of "Good Will Hunting", Affleck and Damon worked together again – this time in Kevin Smith's satirical comedy "Dogma". The film is about two fallen angels, Loki (Damon) and Bartleby (Affleck), who are looking for a way back to heaven. "Dogma" combines sharp criticism of religion with Smith's typical humor and was one of the duo's most controversial but also most entertaining works. In addition to Affleck and Damon, other well-known actors such as Alan Rickman, Linda Fiorentino and Chris Rock were likewise involved.

Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001)

Another project with Kevin Smith brought Affleck and Damon together again in "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back". The movie is a wacky comedy that pokes fun at Hollywood and the movie business. Affleck played both Holden McNeil (a role he had previously played in "Chasing Amy") and a fictionalized version of himself. Damon also appeared in a short scene. The film is peppered with inside jokes and parodies the film business and the pair's own careers, among other things.

The Third Wheel (2002)

In this romantic comedy starring Luke Wilson and Denise Richards, both Affleck and Damon had minor roles. The movie wasn't a big production, but it again showed their fondness for working on projects together, even if they were only marginally involved. "The Third Wheel" remained more of an insider's tip and received mixed reviews.

The Last Duel (2021)

After almost two decades, Affleck and Damon returned as screenwriters and actors with "The Last Duel". The movie, directed by Ridley Scott, is a historical drama based on true events in medieval France. Damon played the lead role of the knight Jean de Carrouges, while Affleck took on a supporting role as Count Pierre d'Alençon. Together with screenwriter Nicole Holofcener, they wrote the screenplay and split it into three perspectives. Despite mixed box office results, the movie was praised for its acting performances and its in-depth exploration of themes such as power, honor and justice.

Air (2023)

The latest movie Affleck and Damon have worked on together is "Air". This time, Affleck not only directed but also took on one of the lead roles, while Damon stars as Sonny Vaccaro, a sports marketing executive. The film tells the story of the collaboration between Nike and basketball star Michael Jordan, which led to the development of the iconic "Air Jordan" shoes. "Air" received positive reviews and was praised for its compelling storytelling and acting performances.

Joint Production Company: Artists Equity

Away from the screen, Affleck and Damon founded their own production company called Artists Equity in 2022. The aim is to create fair conditions for filmmakers and focus on high-quality films. With this company, they want to have more creative control over their projects and offer other filmmakers a platform.

Conclusion

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have built up an impressive professional partnership over the years. From their breakthrough with "Good Will Hunting" to iconic comedies and ambitious dramas like "The Last Duel", their collaboration has proven to be artistically and financially successful. With their new production company, Artists Equity, many more exciting projects are expected to follow.