Sony Pictures is set to deliver a fresh take on the classic Anaconda franchise with a new reboot scheduled to hit theaters on Christmas Day 2025. Tentatively titled The Anaconda, the film will bring a modern twist to the beloved series, blending horror and comedy for a unique cinematic experience.
The reboot boasts an impressive cast, headlined by Jack Black and Paul Rudd, two actors renowned for their comedic chops and versatility. Black, whose recent credits include Kung Fu Panda 4, Tropic Thunder, and School of Rock, is joined by Rudd, a staple of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with roles in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and Avengers: Endgame. Rising star Daniela Melchior, known for Fast X, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and The Suicide Squad, also joins the ensemble. Additional casting is currently underway.
The project is helmed by Tom Gormican, whose previous work on The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and That Awkward Moment highlights his skill in crafting genre-blending films. Gormican co-wrote the script with Kevin Etten, his collaborator on The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Together, they aim to reinvent the franchise with a mix of scares and humor.
In a teaser video, Jack Black and Paul Rudd hinted at the film’s tone. Black exclaimed, “There’s gonna be a big [expletive] snake, and it’s gonna rip,” while Rudd quipped, “You want to get scared? You want to laugh? You want to celebrate with your friends? Or maybe you’re alone and sad and have nobody, but just want to forget about that?” Their playful comments suggest a shift from the original film’s adventure-horror vibe to a more comedic approach.
The original 1997 Anaconda became a cult hit despite mixed reviews, grossing $136.8 million globally on a $45 million budget. It featured a star-studded cast including Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, and Jon Voight, and its success led to several sequels, such as Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid, which earned $71 million in 2004. The franchise later transitioned to TV with titles like Anaconda 3: Offspring and Lake Placid vs. Anaconda.
This reboot marks the franchise’s return to theaters after two decades, arriving in a competitive holiday market. Slated for December 25, it will follow James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash and The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, both entering their second weekends. Positioned as counterprogramming, The Anaconda aims to offer a fresh alternative for audiences seeking thrills and laughs.
With its star-studded cast, innovative direction, and blend of horror and comedy, The Anaconda has all the ingredients to reinvigorate the franchise. Fans of the original and newcomers alike can look forward to a memorable cinematic experience this Christmas 2025. Sony’s bold reimagining ensures that the giant snake will once again slither its way into pop culture prominence.
Watch the official announcement video below:
The announcement you've all been waiting for... 🐍 ‼️ Jack Black and Paul Rudd are making a movie! #AnacondaMovie is slithering into theatres Christmas 2025.