Ben Affleck’s film Animals draws criticism as he promotes ethical AI use

Animals, a Netflix film starring and directed by Ben Affleck, was released this weekend.

It follows a mayoral candidate whose son is taken hostage, forcing him and his wife to seek ransom money during a close election.

Affleck has promoted the use of artificial intelligence in Hollywood for more than a year.

He says he wants it used responsibly, without violating creative rights or taking away people’s jobs.

He has not clearly explained how AI was used to make Animals.

Critics have faulted the film’s dialogue and characters, while viewers have questioned some of its visuals.

The film is below the midpoint on Rotten Tomatoes’ critic and audience scores, according to the source.

The debate matters because filmmakers and studios are weighing AI’s role while concerns remain about creative work and employment.