Sony Pictures has unveiled the release date for its much-anticipated Anaconda reboot, now officially set for Christmas Day 2025. Tentatively titled The Anaconda, the film promises to revive the beloved franchise with a fresh approach that blends horror and comedy.
Leading the cast are two Hollywood heavyweights: Jack Black, celebrated for his roles in Kung Fu Panda 4, Tropic Thunder, and School of Rock, and Paul Rudd, known for his work in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and Avengers: Endgame. Daniela Melchior, a rising star with credits in Fast X, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and The Suicide Squad, will co-star, with additional casting announcements expected soon.
Behind the camera is Tom Gormican, whose previous work on The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and That Awkward Moment has earned him a reputation for balancing humor and action. 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 infuse the reboot with a unique blend of scares and laughs.
A short promotional video featuring the film’s stars offers a glimpse into the tone of the project. Jack Black humorously declared, “There’s gonna be a big [expletive] snake, and it’s gonna rip,” while Paul Rudd added, “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?” These comments suggest that The Anaconda will take a more comedic turn compared to the adventure-horror tone of the 1997 original.
The first Anaconda film, released in 1997, became a cult favorite, earning $136.8 million globally on a $45 million budget despite lukewarm reviews. Starring Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, Jon Voight, and Owen Wilson, the film laid the groundwork for a franchise that expanded with Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid in 2004, which earned $71 million. Subsequent entries like Anaconda 3: Offspring, Anacondas: Trail of Blood, and Lake Placid vs. Anaconda were made for television.
The reboot marks the franchise’s return to theaters after more than two decades, arriving in a competitive holiday market. Its December 25 debut follows major releases like James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash and The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, both entering their second weekends. The Anaconda is positioned as counterprogramming, offering audiences a unique mix of horror and humor during the festive season.
Sony’s decision to reimagine the franchise with a comedic twist reflects a fresh approach to the material, making The Anaconda one of the most intriguing upcoming releases. With a stellar cast, sharp writing, and an experienced director at the helm, this reboot promises to deliver a thrilling and hilarious cinematic experience for both fans of the original and a new generation of viewers.
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.