Finding a truly great comedy these days can feel like searching for an anaconda in the wild—rare and often unexpected. Thankfully, the new Anaconda reboot delivers exactly that. Directed by Tom Gormican, known for The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, this fresh take swaps the original’s tense horror for sharp satire and playful chaos. With Paul Rudd and Jack Black leading the charge, the film lampoons the movie-making process while whisking audiences away on a misadventure deep in the Amazon rainforest.
Story
In this reimagined Anaconda, the plot follows two middle-aged dreamers—Doug McCallister (Jack Black), an uninspired wedding videographer, and Ronald “Griff” Griffin Jr. (Paul Rudd), a struggling actor with nothing but bit parts to his name. Bonded by nostalgia for the 1997 Anaconda, the duo hatches a harebrained plan to shoot their own low-budget remake in Brazil’s Amazon jungle.
Joining them are Kenny (Steve Zahn), their old college cameraman, and Claire (Thandiwe Newton), Griff’s reluctant ex-girlfriend. The ragtag crew quickly learns filmmaking in the wild is no picnic—especially when dealing with a diva-like snake named Heitor and unpredictable local wildlife. Things spiral hilariously out of control when they accidentally wake a massive real anaconda, turning their amateur production into a slapstick survival story.
Performances
Jack Black delivers an unexpectedly grounded performance as Doug, adding layers of dry humor to his usual comedic style. His knack for physical comedy shines in standout moments—especially in a scene involving a dead boar and the giant snake.
Paul Rudd’s Griff is charmingly impulsive, a man whose big ideas rarely survive contact with reality. His chemistry with Black is the film’s beating heart, with their banter and contrasting personalities creating endless laughs.
Steve Zahn nails the role of Kenny, eternally in over his head but armed with quick one-liners. Thandiwe Newton’s Claire balances cynicism with vulnerability, while Selton Mello steals scenes as Santiago, the grief-stricken snake trainer with impeccable comedic timing.
Behind the Scenes
Tom Gormican’s direction blends absurd comedy with just enough suspense to keep the jungle escapade engaging. He skillfully uses pacing to alternate between laugh-out-loud gags and moments of tension.
Visually, Anaconda is stunning. Vibrant jungle backdrops and believable CGI bring the snakes to life without tipping into horror territory. The effects team deserves credit for making both Heitor and the real anaconda visually impressive yet comically approachable.
Final Verdict
The new Anaconda is a rare reboot that dares to reinvent instead of recycle. By flipping the horror premise into a satirical comedy about filmmaking misfires, it delivers a refreshing, laughter-packed adventure. Paul Rudd and Jack Black prove to be a perfect comedic duo, backed by a strong supporting cast and sharp direction.
Whether you’re familiar with the original or not, this version of Anaconda is pure entertainment—a wild jungle ride filled with awkward mishaps, big personalities, and even bigger snakes. If you’re craving a comedy that’s smart, self-aware, and joyfully ridiculous, this one is worth the trip to the theatre.
