Anaconda Movie Review: A Funny, Self-Aware Meta-Reboot That Entertains More Than It Scares

Anaconda (English) Movie Review: A Self-Aware Jungle Ride Full of Laughs

ANACONDA returns to the big screen in an unexpected avatar. Instead of following the conventional remake route, the makers opt for a meta-reboot that openly acknowledges the legacy of the 1997 film and uses it as a springboard for comedy, satire and light-hearted chaos.

Anaconda Movie Story Review

Ronald “Griff” Griffen (Paul Rudd) is an underachieving actor whose career reaches a breaking point after he is fired from a movie for creative disagreements. With his professional life in ruins, Griff heads back to Buffalo, where he reunites with childhood friends Doug McCallister (Jack Black), Kenny Trent (Steve Zahn) and Claire Simons (Thandiwe Newton).

Doug, a passionate filmmaker stuck shooting wedding videos, is desperate for a real opportunity. Griff falsely claims that he has secured the rights to remake Anaconda, instantly sparking excitement. The friends decide to pool their resources and make the film. Doug directs, Kenny handles the camera, Claire finances and acts, while Griff conveniently casts himself as the lead.

The team travels to the Amazon rainforest, planning to finish the shoot within three weeks. Along the way, they meet snake handler Carlos Santiago (Selton Mello) and Ana (Daniela Melchior), a mysterious woman who claims to own their boat, Benedita. What starts as a messy but manageable shoot soon turns dangerous when a real anaconda begins hunting them.

Story, Screenplay & Direction

The story by Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten is smart and self-aware. By choosing a meta-reboot format, the film avoids direct comparison with the original while cleverly commenting on Hollywood’s obsession with remakes and creative egos. The screenplay is entertaining and filled with humorous moments, though some plot ideas feel underdeveloped.

Director Tom Gormican keeps the tone deliberately light. Comedy remains the film’s strongest asset, with several scenes drawing genuine laughs. A standout moment in the second half, involving an attempt to lure the anaconda, ranks among the funniest sequences of the year. The climax stays true to the film’s playful spirit.

On the flip side, the horror element is muted. The anaconda rarely feels threatening, and the opening sequence lacks tension. While the makers clearly prioritize humor, a few well-placed jump scares could have enhanced the impact. Certain subplots, including the gold mine angle, fail to add much value.

Anaconda Movie Review: Performances

Paul Rudd fits the role perfectly, delivering effortless charm and comic timing. Jack Black is dependable and injects energy into every scene. Steve Zahn and Thandiwe Newton perform well but are occasionally overshadowed despite having strong character arcs.

Selton Mello and Daniela Melchior leave a solid impression in supporting roles, while Ione Skye is serviceable in her limited screen time. Cameos by Ice Cube and Jennifer Lopez act as nostalgic callbacks and are likely to please fans of the original film.

Music & Technical Aspects

David Fleming’s background score is subtle and effective. Nigel Bluck’s cinematography captures the lush beauty of the Amazon rainforest, giving the film visual scale. Production design by Steven Jones-Evans feels authentic, while Alice Babidge’s costumes suit the rugged jungle setting.

The visual effects and action sequences are polished. Editing by Craig Alpert and Gregory Plotkin keeps the narrative crisp and ensures the film never drags.

Anaconda Movie Review: Final Verdict

Overall, ANACONDA works as a humorous, self-aware reinvention that values laughter and satire over scares. While it may not satisfy fans looking for intense horror, it succeeds as a fun, entertaining meta-reboot. Box-office prospects remain challenging due to limited buzz and stiff competition, but the film offers a light, enjoyable watch.