The ‘Anaconda’ Remake Leans Into the Laughs

Anaconda, originally released in 1997 as a horror/adventure movie, accidentally became comedic over time. The new version fully embraces that comedy, leaning into exaggerated characters and obvious plot points that make it fun instead of frightening. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a cheesy movie built on action and setting rather than realism.

Their performances help balance the humor and adventure.

Even though the film is meant to be funny, the actors play a major role in making it work. Jack Black—“arguably one of the funniest actors of this generation,” according to one interviewee—plays Doug McCallister. Paul Rudd, known for making audiences forget he’s acting at all, plays Griffin Jr., or “Griff,” as everyone calls him. Their performances help balance the humor and adventure.

Just as the movie starts to gain momentum, Griff drops a shocking claim: he owns the rights to Anaconda. No one believes him at first, and understandably so. The idea that someone casually owns the rights to a movie made in the 1900s seems ridiculous. Still, the group chooses to trust Griff—not because his story makes sense, but because he’s their friend.

Nothing is taken too seriously, except for moments that probably shouldn’t be.

At its core, the movie seems to suggest that trusting your friends matters more than being right. That message, mixed with literal movie credits as proof, only adds to the film’s cheesiness. Nothing is taken too seriously, except for moments that probably shouldn’t be.

This movie definitely isn’t for people looking for intense action or genuinely terrifying moments. If you want to be scared of a giant snake, this isn’t the film for you. Here, the snake is treated almost like a pet, gets killed accidentally, and the real danger is defeated with fireworks. But honestly, that’s part of the charm. The movie invites you to relax, laugh, and not stress about characters nearly dying—only to end up with animals on their heads or in their mouths moments later.

This immediately gets the audience invested and hints at how chaotic the movie will be.

The setting works well, starting with Doug stuck in an underpaying job while Griff struggles in the background of an unknown film. This immediately gets the audience invested and hints at how chaotic the movie will be.

Overall, Anaconda delivers exactly what it promises. Anyone from teenagers to elder millennials can get a good laugh out of it. The humor keeps things light, while jump scares and suspense keep viewers engaged. Grab some popcorn, enjoy the ride, and don’t take it too seriously—it’s worth your time.