Steven Yeun and Ben Affleck Reunite on Netflix
Earlier this year, Steven Yeun and Ben Affleck shared the screen in a Netflix film, but they aren't done yet. Animals brings them back together, with Netflix just sharing the film's first trailer ahead of the October debut.
Animals follows Mark Kimball, a politician played by Affleck, whose son is kidnapped. The trailer hints that Kimball's political life may be tied to the abduction, suggesting deeper intrigue than your typical thriller.
Star Power on Display
The film's cast features more familiar Netflix faces: Kerry Washington, Gillian Anderson, Adriana Paz, Luis Gerardo Méndez, Ray Fisher, Matt Gerald, and Mark Kassen all share the spotlight. Affleck is pulling triple duty here, starring, co-writing the screenplay alongside Connor O. McIntyre and Billy Ray, and directing the film.
Steven Yeun's Key Role Remains Under Wraps
The trailer suggests Yeun will play a significant role. While specific details about his character haven't been made public, he appears to be a close presence in Kimball's inner circle, seen both at home and at political events. With such a focused ensemble cast, Yeun's involvement is central.
“I’m a big believer that the audience has expectations of me, of Kerry, of Steven, of everyone,” Affleck told press. “You want to use that and then drift away from it in ways that help tell your story.”
Yeun is no stranger to Netflix fans, thanks to his acclaimed work in the first season of Beef with Ali Wong. He previously worked with Affleck and Matt Damon on The Rip, and has another Netflix project coming soon.
Ben Affleck, meanwhile, has made several appearances on the platform, including The Rip. Gillian Anderson is globally recognized from her role in Sex Education, while Luis Gerardo Méndez brought his talents to Club de Cuervos and Narcos: Mexico.
Could Animals Be Netflix’s Top Thriller of the Year?
With political intrigue, experienced actors, and Affleck directing and starring, Animals is positioned to be one of Netflix’s major thriller releases this year. The film comes as Netflix enters its awards-season slate. While early expectations don't point to Oscar buzz, Affleck’s past Academy success leaves a door open for surprise honors.
As more news emerges about Animals, we’ll keep readers posted. For fans who followed Steven Yeun as Glenn Rhee for six seasons on The Walking Dead, this is another project to have firmly on the radar as he continues to build a standout résumé across both film and television.
