FILM REVIEW: ANACONDA
Release Date: 26 December 2025 (Australia)
Director: Tom Gormican
Starring: Paul Rudd, Jack Black, Steve Zahn, Thandiwe Newton, Daniela Melchior, Selton Mello
⭐️⭐️⭐️ half and bit more
If you’re heading to the cinema on Boxing Day or over the school breaks and want a couple of hours of pure, escapist fun, Anaconda is the film to see. This is the kind of movie that reminds you why going to the cinema should sometimes be nothing more than a joyous romp — big laughs, big personalities, and zero apologies.
Filmed in Queensland last year, Anaconda proudly showcases some stunning local locations, including Mount Tamborine, Tallebudgera Valley, Springbrook National Park, and surrounding areas across the Gold Coast, with additional filming stretching toward New South Wales. The lush landscapes double beautifully for the Amazon jungle, giving the film a vibrant, adventurous backdrop that adds to its wild charm.
What truly elevates Anaconda is its cast — and in particular, Jack Black. Paired with the endlessly watchable Paul Rudd, the film brings together two of Hollywood’s most beloved comedic actors. While Rudd delivers his trademark charm and timing, it’s Jack Black who absolutely steals the film. Animated, fearless, and hilariously unpredictable, Black once again proves he’s a master of physical comedy and character-driven chaos. There’s an infectious sense that he genuinely loves what he does — and that joy leaps straight off the screen.
The story follows lifelong best friends Griff and Doug, who have always dreamed of remaking their all-time favourite film, Anaconda. When a midlife crisis finally pushes them to act, they assemble a crew and venture deep into the Amazon to begin filming. Naturally, things spiral out of control when life starts to imitate art — and a gigantic, bloodthirsty anaconda begins hunting them down.
Directed by Tom Gormican, Anaconda knows exactly what kind of movie it is and leans into it wholeheartedly. It’s self-aware, silly, energetic, and never takes itself too seriously — which is precisely why it works. The supporting cast, including Steve Zahn, Thandiwe Newton, Daniela Melchior, and Selton Mello, round out the chaos with flair, adding to the film’s lively ensemble feel.
This is not a film that asks you to overthink. It asks you to sit back, laugh loud, and enjoy the ride. And on Boxing Day, that might be exactly what audiences are looking for.
Caroline Russo Review
