Ben Affleck's latest directorial effort, Animals, a Netflix crime thriller, sadly lacks both bark and bite. The film, which Affleck also stars in, is a Los Angeles-based political crime drama that feels surprisingly listless despite its promising premise.
A Familiar Territory for Affleck
Affleck has shown his prowess behind the camera before, with critically acclaimed films like Gone Baby Gone and The Town. Both were Boston-based thrillers that showcased his ability to craft tense, character-driven stories. Animals attempts to replicate that magic on the West Coast, but falls flat.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
Affleck plays Mark Kimball, an independent candidate running for mayor of Los Angeles. Kimball's backstory is a convoluted mix of teacher, lawyer, and Gulf War veteran, which strains credulity. The film tries to balance political ambition with personal demons, but the execution is muddled.
What Works and What Doesn't
While the cast, including Affleck and supporting players, delivers competent performances, the script fails to generate genuine suspense. The pacing is uneven, and the stakes never feel high enough to engage the audience fully.
Key Takeaways
- Lackluster Direction: Affleck's direction lacks the sharpness of his earlier work.
- Underdeveloped Characters: The characters, including Kimball, feel one-dimensional.
- Predictable Plot: The political thriller elements are formulaic and fail to surprise.
- Wasted Potential: The talented cast is given little to work with.
How It Compares to Affleck's Previous Films
To understand where Animals goes wrong, it's helpful to compare it to Affleck's earlier directorial efforts. The table below highlights key differences.
| Film | Rotten Tomatoes Score | Box Office / Streaming | Critical Consensus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gone Baby Gone (2007) | 94% | $34.6 million | "A tense, morally complex thriller." |
| The Town (2010) | 92% | $154 million | "A gripping crime drama with strong performances." |
| Argo (2012) | 96% | $232 million | "A thrilling, well-crafted story." |
| Animals (2023) | N/A | Netflix | "Listless and lacking in suspense." |
The Verdict on Animals
Animals is a disappointing entry in Affleck's filmography. While it has moments of potential, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling narrative or memorable characters. Fans of Affleck's earlier work may find themselves longing for the grit and intensity of his Boston films.
FAQ
Is Animals worth watching?
If you're a die-hard Ben Affleck fan, you might find some redeeming qualities, but overall, the film is slow and lacks the tension of his better works. It's not a must-watch.
What is Animals about?
The film follows Mark Kimball, an independent candidate for mayor of Los Angeles, as he navigates a web of crime and political corruption.
Is Animals based on a true story?
No, Animals is a work of fiction. It is not based on any true events or individuals.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
