Ben Affleck's Netflix Film 'Animals' Not Based on True Story, Director Confirms

The Netflix film 'Animals,' directed by and starring Ben Affleck, is not based on a true story, according to its creators. The plot, which follows a wealthy lawyer running an independently financed campaign for Los Angeles mayor whose family becomes entangled in a kidnapping, features fictional characters and a made-up narrative. Affleck co-wrote the script with Connor O. McIntyre and Billy Ray.

The film's storyline bears a strong resemblance to Ed McBain's 1959 novel 'King's Ransom,' which centers on a wealthy businessman whose son is kidnapped. This novel also served as the basis for Akira Kurosawa's 1963 film 'High and Low' and Spike Lee's recent remake, 'Highest 2 Lowest.'

Affleck stated in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that he nearly halted production on 'Animals' two weeks before filming began upon learning about Lee's remake. He acknowledged the plot similarities but indicated he had not seen Kurosawa's film and considered his project distinct enough to be judged on its own merits. Affleck's intention was to explore themes different from those in the previously adapted stories.

The cast of 'Animals' also includes Kerry Washington as Affleck's character's wife, alongside Gillian Anderson, Adriana Paz, and Luis Gerardo Méndez. Steven Yeun also stars in the film.