Jennifer Garner was originally set to star in a film directed by her ex-husband, Ben Affleck, titled Animals. The film, which was set in 2024, revolves around a mayoral candidate whose son is kidnapped. Garner was cast as the candidate’s wife, with Matt Damon playing the lead role. Damon praised her for the role, noting that working with her would be a "great benefit" for their children, who are now raised by both parents following their 2018 divorce. However, Damon had to step down due to his commitments with another project, The Odyssey, and Affleck took over the lead role. As a result, Garner left the film as well. According to reports, Garner reportedly had a brief but pointed exchange with Affleck, saying, "We don’t wanna do that. You just get baggage." The role eventually went to Kerry Washington, who expressed interest in portraying the complex, "pretty horrible dynamic" between the on-screen couple. Despite their amicable relationship and shared parenting responsibilities, Garner and Affleck decided it was best not to portray a romantic couple on screen. Garner and Affleck had previously co-starred in three films before their marriage in 2005: Pearl Harbor (2001), Daredevil (2003), and Elektra (2005). Affleck has expressed a desire to work with his ex-wife again in the future, calling her "fabulous" and emphasizing that they remain "really good friends." He acknowledged that while he would like to collaborate with her again, the emotional weight of their past relationship could complicate the on-screen dynamic. Affleck once told Metro that working with someone you "love, trust and respect" is easier, though he was referring to Matt Damon at the time. He explained that mixing personal and professional relationships can be complex, but both he and Garner understand the importance of keeping their jobs and friendship separate. The couple also shared a history of collaboration, including working together through the Actors Equity union and even having a shared bank account during their early careers.