Ben Affleck says he used AI 'for lots of things' in 'Animals'

Ben Affleck has revealed that he used artificial intelligence "for lots of things" while making his upcoming Netflix thriller Animals, although the actor and director is keeping details of its use under wraps.

Speaking at Bloomberg’s annual Screentime summit, Affleck explained that he was hesitant to reveal exactly where AI had been used in the film because filmmakers are ultimately trying to preserve the illusion of reality for audiences.

The actor said the technology was used in Animals in what he considers an ethical way, stressing that the film remains "a very human movie". He also compared the use of AI in filmmaking to previous technological developments that have changed the industry.

Affleck said he views AI as "another form of computing" and a technological advancement that fits into the long history of new tools being adopted by film and television productions.

His comments come after Netflix acquired InterPositive, the AI company Affleck founded, earlier this year. The company developed tools designed to assist filmmakers during post-production, including work involving editing, visual corrections, background replacements and lighting, rather than generating performances or replacing artists.

Affleck has previously described InterPositive’s technology as being designed to keep creative decisions in the hands of filmmakers. The company's tools were developed around smaller datasets and filmmaking-specific models, with restrictions intended to preserve creative control.

Animals marks Affleck’s latest project as a director, writer and actor. He plays a Los Angeles mayoral candidate whose son is kidnapped, forcing him to make increasingly difficult choices as he attempts to secure his release.

The thriller also stars Kerry Washington, Steven Yeun and Gillian Anderson. Affleck co-wrote the screenplay with Connor O. McIntyre and Billy Ray.

Animals will be released in select cinemas and begin streaming on Netflix on October 9, 2026.