Academy Award-winning actor and filmmaker Ben Affleck recently revealed an unexpected source of creative inspiration for his Netflix thriller, Animals: the popular battle royale video game Fortnite. Speaking during an appearance on the New Heights podcast hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce, Affleck discussed how his gaming habits and his son’s fascination with in-game cosmetics directly shaped the film’s distinct wardrobe choices.
When asked by the hosts about the origins of the unusual costumes featured in Animals-specifically a character who wears a fuzzy bunny mask-Affleck traced the concept back to Fortnite skins. He explained that his son had taken a strong interest in the game’s cosmetic items, frequently describing them as “tough.”
“I thought these costumes are so kind of random and unusual, that’s what I based the costumes on,” Affleck said on the podcast. Despite initially joking that he could not understand what was tough about a character wearing a fuzzy bunny mask, the filmmaker ultimately integrated that randomized aesthetic into the visual design of his movie.
Battling 12-Year-Olds in Online Lobbies
Affleck’s insights into modern gaming culture do not stop at costume design. The actor admitted to being an active gamer who enjoys sports titles like Madden and NBA 2K, alongside first-person shooters. However, his experiences in online multiplayer environments often lead to frustration.
Affleck confessed that despite his confidence in first-person shooters, he frequently finds himself outmatched by much younger opponents. “I play first-person shooter games, so I think I’m good, and then 12-year-olds just wreck you,” he joked. He described scenarios where he is eliminated immediately, leading to taunts and verbal arguments in voice chat.
“I try to come out and I’m like, ‘Here I come.’ I get killed right away, and then they taunt you, like, ‘You suck!’ I end up getting in arguments. ‘I don’t suck! I’m a grown man!’” Affleck shared on the podcast.
A History of Gaming Enthusiasm
This is not the first time Affleck’s personal gaming habits have made headlines. The actor has previously been vocal about his appreciation for tactical shooters like Valorant, noting that he frequently plays the game and mains the agent KAY/0. He has also been spotted attending live esports events with his son and even joined the Valorant esports organization Sentinels for a streaming watch party.
The convergence of Affleck’s family life, online gaming encounters, and Hollywood career highlights a growing intersection between mainstream cinema and digital gaming culture. Animals premiered on Netflix on October 9, bringing the director’s unique blend of gritty storytelling and game-inspired aesthetics to audiences worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired the costumes in Ben Affleck’s movie Animals?
Ben Affleck revealed that the random and unusual costumes in Animals, such as a character wearing a fuzzy bunny mask, were inspired by Fortnite skins that caught his son’s attention.
What podcast did Ben Affleck appear on to discuss Fortnite?
Ben Affleck discussed his gaming habits and movie inspirations during an appearance on the New Heights podcast, hosted by NFL brothers Jason and Travis Kelce.
What other video games does Ben Affleck play?
Alongside Fortnite, Affleck has mentioned playing sports video games like Madden NFL and NBA 2K, as well as tactical first-person shooters like Valorant, where he is known to play the character KAY/0.
Does Ben Affleck play games online with younger players?
Yes, Affleck admitted that he occasionally plays shooters online where he gets defeated by 12-year-old players, sometimes resulting in humorous arguments in voice chat.
When was the Netflix thriller Animals released?
Animals premiered on Netflix on October 9.
