A major new Hollywood thriller has just landed on Netflix, promising to be a perfect pick for weekend viewing. The Rip, starring long-time collaborators Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, began streaming on the platform from Friday, 16th January 2026.
Critical Acclaim and Star-Studded Cast
The film has made an immediate impact with critics, securing an impressive 88 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Joe Carnahan, the story follows two Miami TNT (Tactical Narcotics Team) officers, played by Affleck and Damon, who investigate a stash house after a mysterious tip-off. Their discovery of millions in cash hidden in an attic plunges them into a dangerous world of paranoia and mistrust.
They are joined by a formidable supporting cast including Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Kyle Chandler, and Sasha Calle. The reunion of Affleck and Damon on screen has been highlighted as a major draw for the project.
What the Reviews Are Saying
Critics have been quick to draw comparisons to classic cop thrillers while praising the film's relentless energy. The Globe and Mail found it "thoroughly enjoyable," mentioning films like Training Day and Cop Land. The Hollywood Reporter noted that while it doesn't reinvent the genre, the "ace cast" and "twisty plotting" make for solid entertainment.
More enthusiastic praise came from Flickering Myth, which called the casting a "genius stroke" for Carnahan's "paranoia-laced crime thriller." Meanwhile, IGN described the last-minute twists as "exhilarating," admitting the reviewer was left "on the edge of my seat."
Audience Reaction and Weekend Verdict
Early viewers on platforms like Letterboxd have echoed the critical praise. One fan called it a "shockingly solid Netflix thriller," affirming that "Damon and Affleck are always magic together." Another praised it as a "gripping film" with a clever, unpredictable twist.
The consensus is clear: for fans of high-stakes action, intense shootouts, and plots that keep you guessing, The Rip is a compelling choice for your next streaming session. With its blend of A-list stars, critical approval, and adrenaline-fuelled narrative, it stands out as one of the first must-watch films of the new year on Netflix.
