The highly anticipated crime thriller The Rip has officially premiered on Netflix, bringing together Hollywood heavyweights Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in a gritty, character-driven story that’s already generating buzz among audiences and critics alike.
Streaming Now on Netflix
The Rip began streaming on Netflix from January 16, 2026, following its global release exclusively on the platform. The film does not have a theatrical release, instead premiering directly to digital audiences worldwide — a strategy that aligns with Netflix’s focus on high-profile streaming originals.
A Realistic Crime Thriller With Star Power
Directed and written by Joe Carnahan, The Rip reunites Damon and Affleck — long-time collaborators and real-life friends — in a tense crime narrative set within the Miami Police Department.
The plot centres on a group of Miami law enforcement officers who, during a routine raid, uncover millions of dollars in cash hidden in an abandoned stash house. What follows is a psychologically charged examination of trust, loyalty and temptation, as pressure and suspicion slowly wear down the team’s cohesion.
The ensemble cast also features Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, Kyle Chandler and Néstor Carbonell, adding depth and diversity to the film’s character dynamics.
Behind the Story — Inspired by Real Events
Though a fictionalised narrative, The Rip draws inspiration from real life police operations related to cash and narcotics raids in Miami-Dade County. According to interviews and coverage, director Carnahan was influenced by the experiences of a real Miami officer, and the term “rip” itself refers to police jargon for seizing illicit goods. This grounding in reality gives the film a sense of authenticity that resonates with viewers familiar with classic crime dramas.
Industry Innovation — Crew Incentive Deal
In a noteworthy industry development, Affleck and Damon negotiated a rare incentive-based compensation deal with Netflix through their production company, Artists Equity. Under this arrangement, all 1,200 crew members involved in making The Rip are eligible for a one-time bonus if the film performs well on Netflix — a departure from the platform’s typical flat-fee model. This move has been widely discussed as a potential precedent for future talent agreements on streaming projects.
Reception & Early Buzz
Initial reports and social media reactions suggest The Rip is striking a chord with audiences looking for a blend of gritty action, moral complexity and ensemble performances. While opinions vary — with some viewers calling it a solid genre thriller and others critiquing its pacing — it’s clear the film is sparking discussion among crime-story fans and general subscribers alike.
Online review threads show a mix of reactions, from praise for its tension and performances to more critical takes on aspects like dialogue and setting. These varied responses underscore how The Rip fits into the broader Netflix landscape: a mainstream streaming release that aims to balance content accessibility with a grounded, character-focused story.
Where & When to Watch
- Platform: Netflix
- Release Date: January 16, 2026
- Availability: Global streaming for all Netflix subscribers
Final Take
The Rip stands out as one of Netflix’s major January 2026 releases — driven by star power, a real-world crime backdrop and an innovative production deal that may influence future streaming projects. Whether you’re drawn by Damon and Affleck’s magnetic collaboration, the moral tension of the plot, or the film’s ensemble cast, The Rip offers a gritty, compelling thriller experience right on your screen.
