Ben Affleck’s long-running interest in artificial intelligence has reached the screen with Animals, a Netflix feature he directed and stars in. The film presents his case for using AI in Hollywood in what he describes as an ethical way, but early reactions from critics and viewers have been harsh.
Affleck plays Mark Kimball, a mayoral candidate trailing in a tightly fought election. After Mark’s son is kidnapped, he and his wife Abigail, played by Kerry Washington of Scandal, must find the ransom money without destroying his campaign.
That political thriller premise has not translated into strong reviews. Affleck previously directed acclaimed films including Gone Baby Gone and the Academy Award-winning Argo, yet Animals has attracted criticism for thin characterisation and awkward dialogue.
Online criticism has also focused on the film’s visual presentation, including unusual-looking shot composition. The movie is currently below water with both critics and audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, adding to the impression that its experiment has not connected with viewers.
سبب كافي يخليك تكره فلم ابن أفليك الجديد ANIMALS pic.twitter.com/3v2ap1fjMS
— غاس | FHD (@FHD_GUS) October 9, 2026
What AI did in Animals remains unclear
Affleck has not clearly explained which parts of Animals used AI. He has, however, repeatedly argued that the technology can have a place in film production without violating creative rights, misusing intellectual property or removing people from Hollywood jobs.
His position has evolved since he was alarmed by the technology’s early results. Affleck now presents responsible AI as a tool that could help keep human creators involved rather than eliminate them.
“I don’t believe that there will ever be ‘Just type it in and make a movie that people want to see,’” Affleck said at a recent Bloomberg event. He added that the aim was to use AI ethically, without displacing workers, while allowing people to benefit from the technology.
The human factor remains the test
Animals arrives during a wider debate about whether AI will support creative work or reduce the value of human labour. For now, the film’s reception suggests that a responsible-use argument cannot substitute for compelling writing, performances and direction.
That distinction also matters across interactive entertainment. Arcade enthusiasts can follow the wider conversation through RETROCADE’s arcade news and features, explore arcade industry videos, or compare the practical considerations in an arcade machine buying guide.
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