tech
January 19, 2026
Matt Damon is right: phones + Netflix mean we are now in the pub bore age of cinema
The streaming giant has the data that proves we all just watch things with one hand gripping our phones, so need to have the plot explained to us over and over again
TL;DR
- Matt Damon's new Netflix film, "The Rip," co-starring Ben Affleck, is currently the most watched film on the platform.
- Damon believes Netflix encourages filmmakers to "dumb things down" and repeat plot points to maintain viewer attention.
- He contrasted the Netflix viewing experience with theatrical releases, which he compared to attending church.
- Damon cited "Stranger Things" as an example of content that over-explains its plot.
- He suggested Netflix's approach is driven by data on viewing habits, indicating viewers are easily distracted.
- Damon is also starring in Christopher Nolan's upcoming theatrical film "The Odyssey," which he anticipates will be a major success.
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