In a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, actors Matt Damon and Ben Affleck discussed the evolving landscape of filmmaking in the streaming era, particularly focusing on their latest project, the Netflix crime thriller The Rip. The Oscar-winning duo revealed that traditional filmmaking techniques have adapted significantly to meet the demands of audiences who often engage with content on their mobile devices.
Changing the Game for Action Movies
Damon explained that the conventional approach to crafting an action film typically involves creating three major set pieces, spaced throughout the film, with the most significant climax reserved for the finale. “The standard way to make an action movie that we learned was, you usually have three set pieces. One in the first act, one in the second, one in the third,” he said. “You spend most of your money on that one in the third act. That’s your finale.”
However, in a shift reflecting the realities of modern viewership, Netflix has suggested a different strategy. Damon noted, “Now they’re like, ‘Can we get a big one in the first five minutes? We want people to stay.’” This approach recognizes that many viewers may be distracted by their phones while watching, leading to recommendations for reiterating the plot multiple times throughout the dialogue.
Contrasting Styles in Streaming Content
Affleck added a contrasting perspective by referencing another Netflix release, Adolescence, which defied these conventions. “But then you look at Adolescence, and it didn’t do any of that,” he stated. “And it’s great. And it’s dark too. It’s tragic and intense.” The film tells the story of a father grappling with the accusation that his son has committed murder, featuring long, contemplative shots that eschew traditional dialogue-heavy storytelling.
Both actors underscored the importance of creatively engaging audiences in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape. While The Rip embraces Netflix’s new guidelines, Affleck’s praise for Adolescence highlights that alternative storytelling methods can still resonate strongly with viewers.
Currently, both The Rip and Adolescence are available for streaming on Netflix. As audiences anticipate future releases, the conversation between Damon and Affleck offers a glimpse into the evolving strategies that filmmakers are adopting to capture viewer interest in a digital-first world. For those eager to explore upcoming programming, a list of the best new TV shows arriving in 2026 is available online.
