Jack Black on ‘Anaconda’ Reboot and the Future of Movie Theaters

Jack Black and Paul Rudd have teamed up for a meta-comedy reboot of the 1997 creature feature Anaconda, set for a holiday season release. Directed by Tom Gormican (The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent), the film follows friends who attempt to remake the original movie, leading to disastrously funny consequences. In a new interview, the stars discussed the film’s themes and its powerful connection to the cinema experience.

During an exclusive conversation with MovieWeb, the actors delved into the heart of their new project. When asked if their characters were chasing the original film or the feeling they had when it was released, Paul Rudd suggested it was about “trying to recapture what it is that they lost,” a pure, nostalgic connection. Jack Black enthusiastically agreed, labeling that pursuit as “art at its purest.”

A Celebration of Theatrical Comedy

Black was particularly vocal about how the film is engineered for a communal viewing. He expressed pride in being part of a movie that “really plays with live audiences in a big theater,” noting the infectious laughter at the premiere. This led him to a more profound reflection on the industry at large, pondering aloud, “Are we in the last days of theater?” He framed the December release as a celebration of the cinematic experience, praising Sony Columbia for “carrying that torch” during a challenging time for theater chains.

Box Office Prospects and Holiday Competition

The 2025 theatrical landscape has seen successes like A Minecraft Movie and Wicked: For Good, but the market remains highly competitive. Anaconda is positioned as comedic counterprogramming against major holiday releases like James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash. With Black’s proven box office draw and early buzz hinting at strong word-of-mouth potential, the reboot is well-positioned to become a holiday smash. The article suggests that unique films like Anaconda could be key to inspiring audiences to return to cinemas.

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