Netflix's $100 Million Gamble: Affleck & Damon's 'The Rip' Skips Theaters

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon star in a new, high-budget action thriller. But their film, "The Rip," is only on Netflix. January is known for big, loud movies in theaters. But this year, two major stars are on the small screen instead. Their new Netflix film reportedly cost nearly $100 million. This is rare for a violent, R-rated movie not based on existing books or comics. Netflix was so eager to make the film it changed its payment rules. The deal allows Affleck and Damon to use their "Artists Equity" model. This means the cast and crew get bonuses if the film is a hit. The film has the style of a major 2002 blockbuster. In the past, it would have been in every large theater. Now, the changing movie business means viewers will watch it at home.