In a cinematic landscape dominated by superhero blockbusters and prestige dramas, the new Netflix action thriller “The Rip” stands out as a refreshing blast from the past. Directed by the versatile Joe Carnahan, the film reunites longtime friends and collaborators Ben Affleck and Matt Damon in a gritty, high-stakes caper that harks back to the glory days of 90s and 2000s crime cinema.
Inspired by alleged true events, “The Rip” follows a team of Miami police officers led by Damon’s Dane and Affleck’s JD. When an excited sniffer dog leads them to a stash of over $20 million hidden in a suburban home’s attic, the team must work together to safely transport the illicit fortune. But with so much money at stake, the officers soon find themselves embroiled in a web of mistrust and double-crossing, as they struggle to determine who can be trusted with “the rip.”
Carnahan, known for his stylish and unapologetically macho films like “Narc” and “The Grey,” brings his signature flair to “The Rip.” The action sequences are tightly choreographed and thrilling, while the banter-filled dialogue allows Affleck and Damon to showcase their undeniable chemistry. The two Oscar winners bring a sense of gravitas to their roles, infusing their characters with a world-weariness that grounds the film’s more outrageous moments.
Although the plot may not be as intricate as Carnahan would have you believe, “The Rip” delivers an enjoyably boisterous ride, with enough twists and turns to keep audiences engaged. The supporting cast, including the likes of Teyana Taylor, Steven Yeun, and Catalina Sandino Moreno, all turn in solid performances, though the female characters could have been better developed.
Ultimately, “The Rip” is a throwback to the kind of gritty, character-driven action films that were once a staple of the multiplex. In an era dominated by high-concept blockbusters, it’s a refreshing reminder that sometimes all you need is a group of charismatic actors, a well-crafted script, and a healthy dose of cinematic bravado to create an entertaining night at the movies – or, in this case, on your television screen.