Review: Netflix's 'Animals' is a Solid, If Unspectacular, Crime Thriller

Netflix has released its latest original thriller, 'Animals', starring Ben Affleck as an L.A. mayoral candidate thrust into a high-stakes hostage situation. While the film has generated buzz for bringing together a powerhouse cast, including Affleck, Kerry Washington, and Steven Yeun, it ultimately lands as a competent but forgettable addition to the platform's library.

A High-Stakes Premise

The plot follows Mark Kimball (Affleck), whose political ambitions are jeopardized when his young son is kidnapped. With his family's finances already stretched thin due to his costly campaign, Mark is forced to turn to a mysterious criminal fixer, played by Gillian Anderson, to resolve the crisis.

Performance Highlights

The film’s saving grace is undoubtedly its cast. Kerry Washington and Gillian Anderson deliver magnetic performances that elevate the material, often selling dialogue that might otherwise feel clunky. Their portrayal of characters managing hidden motivations and intense pressures provides the film's most engaging moments.

The Pitfalls of 'Animals'

Despite its strong start, the film struggles with tonal consistency. While it attempts to touch upon themes of class struggle and the pressures of political life, these elements remain largely underdeveloped, serving more as narrative window-dressing than substantive commentary. Furthermore, the film’s conclusion falls victim to a noticeable dip in quality. The final act moves away from the tension of the home-based setting, shifting into city streets where the plot relies on questionable logic and subpar CGI that distracts from the narrative stakes.

Final Verdict

'Animals' is exactly the type of streaming original that works well for a casual weekend watch. It delivers just enough tension and a few solid twists to keep you invested until the credits roll. However, it lacks the depth and lasting impact of high-caliber thrillers like 'Gone Girl'. It is a workmanlike effort that, while generally enjoyable in the moment, is likely to be forgotten by Monday morning.