Ben Affleck to Direct and Star in Netflix Thriller 'Animals'

Ben Affleck is set to both direct and star in the upcoming Netflix thriller 'Animals,' adding another significant project to his impressive filmography. The production has recently gained momentum with the addition of Emmy Award-winning actress Gillian Anderson to its cast, bringing additional star power to this highly anticipated feature.

Project Development and Creative Team

The screenplay for 'Animals' comes from the collaborative efforts of Connor McIntyre and Billy Ray, with production scheduled to take place in Los Angeles. While specific plot details remain under wraps, sources indicate the story will revolve around a kidnapping incident. The project is being produced through Artists Equity, the production company founded by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, with additional backing from Makeready.

Production Partnership Details

The film represents a strong collaborative effort between multiple production entities. Brad Weston and Collin Creighton are producing through Makeready, which developed the project alongside Fifth Season. The executive production team includes Michael Joe, Kevin Halloran, and Lucy Damon from Artists Equity, along with several representatives from Fifth Season.

Casting Evolution and Production Changes

Initially, Affleck had planned to focus solely on directing the film, with Matt Damon considered for the leading role. However, production delays led Affleck to prioritize his commitment to 'The Accountant 2.' The situation evolved further when Damon joined Christopher Nolan's new project 'The Odyssey,' prompting Affleck to step into the starring role himself to expedite the production process.

Gillian Anderson's Involvement

The addition of Gillian Anderson to the cast marks another significant milestone for the project. Anderson, widely recognized for her iconic role as Dana Scully in 'The X-Files,' joins the production fresh from her successful run on Netflix's 'Sex Education,' where she appeared in all four seasons of the popular series.

Current Status and Future Timeline

While Affleck and Anderson are currently the only confirmed cast members, the production is expected to gain momentum following these key casting decisions. The release date for 'Animals' remains unannounced, but additional production details are anticipated to be revealed in the coming weeks.

This comprehensive project brings together established industry talents both in front of and behind the camera, suggesting Netflix's continued commitment to producing high-caliber original content with major Hollywood players.