Directed by Tom Gormican, Anaconda released in theatres on December 25 and stars Jack Black, Paul Rudd, Steven Zahn, and Thandiwe Newton. Marketed as a horror-comedy, the film sets expectations of loud laughs and big scares, especially with Jack Black at the centre. However, what unfolds is a cautious, uneven experience. The humour rarely lands and the horror never truly unsettles, leaving the film stuck between tones.
Playing It Too Safe
The Anaconda title carries cult legacy, and Gormican approaches it with noticeable restraint. While the original film became iconic unintentionally, this version tries to lean into parody and irony with intention. Unfortunately, the film never fully commits to being either scary or silly. The careful handling drains the energy, turning what could have been a sharp update into a hesitant reimagining.
A Story Rooted in Love for Cinema
The narrative follows childhood friends Doug (Jack Black) and Griff (Paul Rudd), who bonded over their shared love for movies. Doug once dreamed of filmmaking but now works as a wedding videographer, while Griff continues to struggle as an actor in Los Angeles. When they reunite at Doug’s birthday, Griff reveals he has secured the rights to remake Anaconda. Energised by the idea, they decide to make the film on a shoestring budget.
Chaos in the Amazon
Joined by their small crew—including Kenny (Steven Zahn), a recovering addict, and Claire (Thandiwe Newton), a divorced woman seeking a fresh start—they head into the Amazon. The team also includes a snake handler and a woman with a troubled past, adding to the mix. As filming progresses, problems escalate quickly. The situation turns dangerous when a real giant anaconda enters the picture, blurring the line between fiction and survival.
Performances and Missed Potential
Jack Black provides a grounded presence, anchoring the film with sincerity rather than his usual bombast. Paul Rudd brings a quiet charm, though the script doesn’t give him enough room to shine. Despite a capable cast and an interesting meta setup, the film never fully delivers on its premise. The result is a well-meaning creature film that feels restrained to a fault.
Final Verdict
Anaconda chooses mood and character over loud scares or broad comedy, but doesn’t fully succeed in either direction. While the effort feels sincere, the lack of commitment holds the film back from becoming memorable. It’s a cautious creature feature that avoids disaster, yet never quite coils into something thrilling. Fans of the cast may find mild enjoyment, but expectations should remain modest.
