Sony Pictures is set to release a fresh take on the Anaconda franchise with a horror comedy reboot starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd. The movie, centered on a meta story about filmmaking gone wrong, is scheduled for a December 25, 2025, theatrical debut, bringing a modern twist to the classic thriller.
Plot Details Reveal a Deadly Turn in the Amazon
The reboot’s storyline follows longtime friends Doug and Griff who finally decide to remake their favorite film, the original Anaconda. During their journey into the Amazon to shoot their project, the situation spirals dangerously out of control when a real giant anaconda emerges, threatening their lives and turning their comedic adventure into a deadly ordeal. As the synopsis states, their dream movie might just cost them everything.
Cast and Crew Bring Dynamic Energy to the Project
Jack Black and Paul Rudd demonstrate strong on-screen camaraderie influenced by their real-life friendship, which they credit for their enthusiasm toward the film. Alongside them, Brazilian actor Selton Mello plays Santiago, with Thandiwe Newton as Claire Simons, Steve Zahn portraying Kenny Trent, Daniela Melchior as Ana Almeida, and Ione Skye in the role of Malie McCallister. The film is directed by Tom Gormican, who co-wrote the script with Kevin Etten, both working from the original Anaconda concept created by Hans Bauer, Jim Cash, and Jack Epps Jr.
Production includes Brad Fuller, Andrew Form, Kevin Etten, and Tom Gormican as producers, while Samson Mücke functions as an executive producer, ensuring the reboot combines horror and humor effectively.
Legacy of Anaconda Franchise and Expectations for the Reboot
The Anaconda series began with the 1997 original, starring Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, Jon Voight, and Owen Wilson. Its commercial success led to several sequels and a crossover title, crafting a lasting horror legacy. This reboot intends to infuse new life into the franchise by blending meta commentary with thrilling horror elements, aiming to attract both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
Behind the Film’s Meta Approach and Chemistry
The recently released video for the reboot showcases the playful interactions between Black and Rudd, who share insights into the film’s unique meta narrative. They explain how their personal friendship influenced their involvement and promise a tension-filled yet humorous experience. The mix of comedic timing with terrifying encounters aims to engage viewers on multiple levels, enhancing the suspense and unease throughout the story.
“Doug and Griff have been best friends since they were kids, and have always dreamed of remaking their all-time favorite movie: the cinematic ‘classic’ Anaconda,”
reads the synopsis.
“When a midlife crisis pushes them to finally go for it, they head deep into the Amazon to start filming. But things get real when an actual giant anaconda appears, turning their comically chaotic movie set into a deadly situation. The movie they’re dying to make? It might just get them killed.”
With its December release date approaching, the Jack Black Anaconda reboot is poised to bring a fresh layer of tension and dark humor to the franchise, while exploring the dangers lurking behind the camera in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
