The newest installment in the Anaconda franchise, featuring Paul Rudd and Jack Black, has achieved a notable milestone by earning a better critical reception than the original 1997 film. Despite mixed reviews, this meta reboot directed by Tom Gormican has secured a 51% score on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing the 40% rating of its predecessor.
Set against the backdrop of a comedic retelling, the film follows lifelong friends Griff and Doug as they embark on a mission to remake their favorite movie, Anaconda. Their ambitious plan takes a turn when a massive snake begins to pursue them, adding a twist to their nostalgic endeavor. Critics, however, have described the film as a lackluster effort to redefine the beloved horror series.
In his review, Patrick McDonald from HollywoodChicago.com remarked that while the film is “weirdly introspective enough to work,” it ultimately lacks the comedic punch expected from a holiday blockbuster. He noted that the combined talents of Black, Rudd, and Steve Zahn were not sufficient to elevate the film to a higher standard.
Similarly, Jonathon Sim of ComingSoon rated the film a modest 5/10, indicating that although it has moments of over-the-top humor, it ultimately fails to deliver a consistently entertaining experience. He remarked, “While Anaconda has its moments… it ultimately misses the mark.”
The film’s comedic aspirations have come under scrutiny from some reviewers. Jeffrey Harris of 411mania criticized its attempts at humor, stating, “Anaconda fails most at being funny,” and lamented its inability to effectively parody Hollywood’s obsession with intellectual property. In contrast, M.N. Miller from FandomWire offered a more favorable perspective, highlighting the film’s absurd humor and its fresh take on a long-standing narrative that has remained relevant due to streaming platforms.
Despite the mixed critical reception, the reboot has resonated more positively with audiences. With a 79% approval rating on the Popcornmeter, viewer response sharply contrasts with the original Anaconda’s audience score of just 24%. This discrepancy in audience perception illustrates a significant shift in the franchise’s legacy.
The film’s ability to resonate with contemporary viewers while managing to surpass its predecessor in critical reception marks a noteworthy moment in the Anaconda franchise. As it continues to draw audiences, the future of this reboot may hinge on its ability to balance humor with the original film’s adventurous spirit.
