It’s been a long three-month crawl since it slithered into theaters at Christmas, but Jack Black and Paul Rudd’s Anaconda (2025) has finally made its way onto Netflix. After raking in a solid $135 million at the global box office, the big question remains: Is this a cinematic masterpiece or just a really expensive cry for help?
Meta-Mayhem
Directed by Tom Gormican (who co-wrote the script with Kevin Etten—the duo behind The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent), the film follows two best friends, Doug (Black) and Griff (Rudd), who are staring down midlife crises. Their solution? Head to the Amazon to film a low-budget remake of their favorite 1997 cult classic.
The problem? While they’re fumbling with boom mics and questionable acting choices, a very real, very hungry, and very giant snake decides to audition for the lead role. It turns out “getting the shot” is a lot harder when the local wildlife is trying to turn your cinematographer into a snack. However, the snake isn’t the only problem they face. There are thieves, cops, and their own drama standing in their way. But at its heart, the movie is about friendship, following your dreams, midlife crisis, and a big f*cking snake. And I’m totally here for it!
Why It Hits the Mark
The “on-screen bromance” between Black and Rudd is the engine of the movie, but they’re backed by a stellar, “messy-in-the-best-way” crew, including Steve Zahn and Thandiwe Newton. The movie leans heavily on the idea that the group hasn’t had the lives they hoped for, but that together their friendship is what matters.
Unlike the original’s (admittedly charming) rubber animatronics, this snake feels dangerous. With a head the size of a small car, the creature’s design is both terrifying and impressive.
The film leans hard into its roots, even featuring cameos by the original’s survivors, bringing the whole thing “full circle.”
The Verdict: Action with a Side of Snark
If you’re looking for a high body count and a lot of laughs, this reboot delivers. It manages to balance the “friends reuniting” heart with the “giant predator eating people” spectacle. I got exactly what I was expecting: fun, action, and a snake that could swallow a minivan.
Watch it now on Netflix. Don’t have Netflix? You can still find Anaconda (2025) on VOD and Digital platforms.
