Artists Equity Expands Netflix Partnership Following Success of ‘The Rip’
Artists Equity, the production company founded by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, has solidified its relationship with Netflix through a multi-year first-glance deal for streaming content. This expansion comes on the heels of the successful release of their crime thriller, The Rip, which topped Netflix’s Top 10 chart for three weeks [Variety].
A Dual Strategy: Streaming and Theatrical Releases
The partnership with Netflix complements Artists Equity’s existing three-year agreement with Sony Pictures for theatrical releases. Under the Sony deal, the studio will distribute, finance, and handle ancillary rights for Artists Equity’s films intended for the massive screen, with Artists Equity retaining the option to co-finance projects [Variety]. The decision of whether a project will debut on Netflix or in theaters will be made on a case-by-case basis, determined through discussions between Artists Equity and its studio partners.
‘The Rip’ and Upcoming Projects
The Rip, released on January 16, 2026, stars Matt Damon and Ben Affleck as police officers in the Miami-Dade Police Department narcotics unit [Wikipedia]. The film, directed by Joe Carnahan, is inspired by the true story of Miami-Dade County Police Captain Chris Casiano and explores themes of trust and corruption within a police unit [Wikipedia].
Affleck’s next directorial feature, Animals, starring Affleck, Kerry Washington, and Gillian Anderson, is also slated for release on Netflix later in 2026 [Variety].
Statements from Artists Equity and Netflix
Affleck and Damon jointly stated that the Netflix partnership is “an incredible milestone” and validates their vision for Artists Equity as an independent supplier capable of managing the entire creative process [Variety]. They highlighted Netflix’s ability to connect with modern audiences and create shared cultural moments.
Dan Lin, Netflix Film Chairman, emphasized the streamer’s commitment to bold, original filmmaking and praised Affleck and Damon for their proactive approach to creating opportunities both on and off-screen [Variety].