Hollywood stars Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are set to star in and produce 'The Rip,' a new crime thriller slated for release on Netflix on January 16, 2026. The project marks a significant collaboration for the acclaimed actors, who also co-founded the production company Artists Equity.
Directed by Joe Carnahan, 'The Rip' will delve into the complexities of law enforcement in Miami, focusing on the disintegration of trust among police officers after the discovery of a large hidden fortune. The film's premise is reportedly inspired by the personal experiences of Carnahan's friend, who previously led tactical narcotics for the Miami-Dade police department. Its narrative style is said to draw inspiration from classic 1970s character-driven cop dramas such as 'Serpico' and 'The French Connection,' as well as works by Michael Mann, for example, 'Heat'.
The ensemble cast for 'The Rip' includes Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Kyle Chandler, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Sasha Calle, Scott Adkins, Néstor Carbonell, and Lina Esco. Artists Equity, the production company established by Damon and Affleck in November 2022, is producing the film, highlighting their dedication to creator-focused projects and equitable profit sharing.
'The Rip' explores themes of betrayal and moral ambiguity, with the discovery of millions in cash creating a ripple effect of suspicion and fractured loyalties within the police force. The title itself is derived from Miami police slang for illegally seized assets, suggesting the corrupting influence of power and the pursuit of financial gain.
The film's acquisition by Netflix positions it as a key release for early 2026, representing a strategic partnership for Artists Equity. The backdrop of Miami in the 1970s and 1980s, a period characterized by significant drug trafficking, police corruption, and rising crime rates, provides an authentic setting for the film's exploration of trust and betrayal within law enforcement.