It seems Hollywood's love affair with reboots isn't ending anytime soon. The latest in line for a modern makeover is the 1997 hit “Anaconda,” with comedy legends Jack Black and Paul Rudd in early talks to star. This new version is set to be directed and written by Tom Gormican, best known for “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.” Gormican's involvement suggests that the film will take a more comedic approach, blending humor with the original's horror elements.
The original “Anaconda,” directed by Luis Llosa, was a box office success that brought together an eclectic cast including Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, Ice Cube, and Jon Voight. The film followed a National Geographic crew on an ill-fated journey into the Brazilian rainforest, where they encountered the world's largest—and deadliest—snake. The movie's mix of suspense, action, and some campy moments made it a memorable entry in the creature-feature genre.
The reboot, however, appears to be heading in a different direction. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new storyline will revolve around a group of middle-aged friends experiencing mid-life crises. In a bid to relive their youth, they decide to remake their favorite movie—only to find themselves in a real-life battle for survival against giant snakes, natural disasters, and violent criminals in the rainforest.
This project has been simmering at Columbia Pictures since early 2023 and has undergone several rewrites to strike the right balance between horror and humor. The casting of Black and Rudd is a strong indication that the film will lean into its comedic potential, offering something fresh while paying homage to the original.
While no official release date has been announced, the combination of Gormican's direction and the comedic prowess of Black and Rudd has certainly piqued the interest of movie fans. Whether this reboot can capture the thrilling essence of the original while adding a modern, humorous twist remains to be seen, but it's sure to be an entertaining ride.
