Lino Esco; Ben Affleck.Credit :Arturo Holmes/WireImage (2)
When actors talk about filming intimate scenes, the stories are often serious, awkward, or emotionally heavy. But according to Lina Esco, her experience with Ben Affleck on Netflix’s new crime thriller The Rip was refreshingly different — and surprisingly full of laughter.
Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the film’s New York premiere on January 13, 2026, Esco shared that the mood on set during their bedroom scenes was anything but tense.
“We were giggling,” Esco said with a smile. “We were just two dorks, dorking around.”
A Surprisingly Easy On-Set Chemistry
Esco, 40, who plays Captain Jackie Velez in The Rip, described Affleck, 53, as warm, relaxed, and genuinely easy to work with — qualities she says made even vulnerable scenes feel natural.
“Ben is just such a sweet man and easygoing,” she explained. “Sometimes you don’t run into people that are easy, and I can honestly say it just felt like an easygoing set energy — which is very rare.”
That comfort wasn’t limited to their scenes alone. According to Esco, the entire cast and crew helped create a grounded, welcoming atmosphere throughout filming.
A Low-Key Set With Big Talent
Directed by Joe Carnahan, The Rip stars an impressive ensemble including Matt Damon, Teyana Taylor, Kyle Chandler, Steven Yeun, and Catalina Sandino Moreno. Esco credits Carnahan for setting the tone early.
“The energy on set was very lowkey, very down to earth,” she said. “There was nothing pretentious about anyone. Joe made sure everyone was comfortable at all times.”
She added that Carnahan often played music on set to help actors sink into the film’s gritty mood, making the experience feel immersive and surprisingly cozy.
Why Lina Esco Knew She Had to Say Yes
Esco revealed that her excitement for The Rip began the moment she read the script.
“The script was incredible,” she said. “I was like, ‘Oh my God. I want to be in this movie.’”
After several auditions and an “incredible” Zoom call with Carnahan, she felt an instant connection to the project.
“It was love at first sight,” Esco recalled. “When I saw the first cut, I was in love. I’m not just saying that — it’s a great movie.”
What The Rip Is About
The Rip follows Miami police officers — played by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon — whose trust is put to the test after their narcotics unit uncovers a massive stash of cash during a dangerous investigation. The film blends tension, loyalty, and moral ambiguity, all wrapped in a gritty crime-thriller package.
Affleck and Damon also produced the film alongside Luciana Damon and Dani Bernfeld, adding another layer of creative collaboration to the project.
Where to Watch
The Rip is now streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a mix of high-stakes drama — and, behind the scenes at least — plenty of laughter.
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