Matt Damon and Ben Affleck recently appeared on the popular “Joe Rogan Experience” podcast to promote their latest Netflix collaboration, “The Rip,” and during the conversation, the longtime friends and collaborators opened up about how streaming platforms like Netflix are changing the rules of filmmaking.
Damon explained that Netflix approaches movies very differently from traditional theatrical releases because home viewers often pay attention in a much more distracted way. People are watching on their phones, tablets, or laptops, sometimes multitasking, which has led to the streamer experimenting with new strategies for keeping audiences engaged.
“One of the biggest changes is how they handle action sequences,” Damon said. “Traditionally, an action movie has three major set pieces: one in the first act, one in the second, and the big finale in the third. Usually, most of the budget is spent on that final, climactic scene. But now Netflix asks, ‘Can we get a huge set piece in the first five minutes to hook people? And maybe it wouldn’t hurt to restate the plot three or four times in dialogue because viewers are often on their phones while watching.’”
Damon described this as part of the “streaming mindset,” which prioritizes immediate engagement and repeated reinforcement of the story, even if it goes against traditional filmmaking conventions. The idea is to make sure viewers stay invested from the very beginning, even in a world where attention spans are shrinking.
Affleck chimed in with a slightly different perspective, arguing that Netflix’s formula for success isn’t the only way to make a compelling story. He highlighted the streamer’s limited series hit, Adolescence, as a counterexample.
“Look at Adolescence,” Affleck said. “It doesn’t do any of that stuff, and yet it’s absolutely fantastic. It’s dark, tragic, and intense. It’s about a father who finds out his child is accused of murder. There are long, contemplative shots of the characters from behind, quiet car rides, no dialogue. It’s emotionally gripping without needing repeated plot reminders or front-loaded action.”
Damon noted that shows like Adolescence might be “the exception rather than the rule,” reflecting that Netflix often favors a fast-paced, attention-grabbing approach. But Affleck pushed back, emphasizing that the success of Adolescence proves filmmakers can still create powerful, engaging stories without relying on the streamer’s usual tricks.
The discussion highlighted a broader tension between traditional storytelling and the modern streaming model. While Netflix’s approach is designed to keep viewers glued to their screens in a competitive digital landscape, there are still opportunities for nuanced, slower-burn stories that allow audiences to immerse themselves fully in the narrative without constant reminders.
Both Damon and Affleck acknowledged the challenges of adapting to this new reality while maintaining their creative vision. “It’s an interesting time to be a filmmaker,” Damon said. “We want to tell stories that matter, but we also have to understand the platform and how people are watching. It’s a balance.”
Ultimately, the conversation offered a rare insider glimpse into how streaming services are reshaping storytelling, the creative compromises filmmakers face, and the ways in which traditional cinematic craftsmanship can still shine, even in the age of Netflix.
