Netflix Viewers Say This Is One of the Best Movies the Platform Has Released in Years
Netflix’s new action thriller The Rip is quickly becoming one of the platform’s most talked-about releases this year. The movie arrived on Netflix on January 16, and it did not take long for both critics and viewers to weigh in.
The film is written and directed by Joe Carnahan, who also helped shape the story with Michael McGrale. It brings together Matt Damon and Ben Affleck once again, alongside Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, and Kyle Chandler. The story centers on police officers whose loyalty and friendships are tested after greed enters the picture, all set against a gritty crime backdrop.
Early reactions have been mostly positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds an 83 percent critics score based on 80 reviews. Audience reactions are more mixed but still solid, with a 70 percent score from more than 500 ratings. According to the site’s critics summary, “Leveraging Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s classic chemistry to texturize a friendship tested by greed, The Rip tears into its setup with confident energy.”
Seize the cash. Count it. Turn it in. Seems simple right?
— Netflix (@netflix) January 5, 2026
The Rip starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, and Kyle Chandler premieres January 16 pic.twitter.com/oXQrURgHiQ
Several reviewers have praised the performances, especially the dynamic between Damon and Affleck. Peter Travers noted that their star power helps carry the movie when it leans into familiar territory, saying the actors’ presence keeps the film engaging even when it follows genre rules. Empire Magazine’s John Nugent was more enthusiastic, calling it “a gripping, old-school crime thriller” and highlighting the sharp turns in the story.
Other critics were more measured. Travis M. Andrews of The Washington Post described the movie as “fine genre fare”, adding that fans of crime films will likely enjoy it, even if some moments feel predictable. The Associated Press also pointed out that while the film is inspired by real events shared with Carnahan by a Miami detective, parts of the story may feel hard to believe.
Still, many reviews agree that The Rip is entertaining and easy to watch. Newsday summed it up simply by saying Affleck and Damon clearly enjoy themselves, and that energy carries over to the audience. The Financial Times described the movie as straightforward but polished, comparing it to comfort viewing for action fans.
Beyond the lead duo, the supporting cast has also drawn attention. Teyana Taylor, in particular, continues to earn praise as her acting career gains momentum. The film balances action, tension, and character moments without trying to reinvent the genre.
The Rip succeeds because it knows exactly what kind of movie it wants to be. It does not aim to surprise everyone, but it delivers solid performances, steady action, and familiar thrills that many viewers enjoy. It feels like a throwback crime film made for a modern streaming audience.
What do you think about The Rip? Did it live up to the buzz, or did it feel too familiar? Share your thoughts in the comments.
