The upcoming reboot of the classic 1997 film "Anaconda" is creating waves with its star-studded cast, which includes Brazilian actor Selton Mello alongside Hollywood heavyweights Jack Black and Paul Rudd. Announced by Sony Pictures, this fresh take on the beloved franchise is set to hit theaters on December 25, 2025, promising to offer audiences a new perspective on familiar themes.
Initially released more than two decades ago, "Anaconda" became known for its thrilling plot, featuring Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, Ice Cube, and Jon Voight hunting for the world's largest snake deep within the Amazon rainforest. The original was both a box office success, raking in $136 million globally, and the catalyst for several sequels. This time, the story shifts from the predator-prey dynamic to one filled with comedy and self-parody, set against the backdrop of personal crises.
According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter, the new narrative centers on a group of friends grappling with mid-life challenges who decide to recreate their favorite childhood film. They venture out to the jungle—initially intending to relive their youth—only to confront natural disasters, rampant crime, and, of course, deadly snakes. The co-stars each inhabit unique characters, with Black portraying a struggling filmmaker who currently works as a wedding videographer, and Rudd as the out-of-touch actor who used to shine on police dramas.
Selton Mello’s role as the Brazilian animal tamer is gaining attention, especially as fans are eager to see how he fits within the dynamic of his Hollywood co-stars. Mello shared his excitement over the project, stating, “Working on such a large production with actors I have long admired, especially performing in another language, has been incredibly fulfilling at this point in my career.” His enthusiasm reflects the joy he feels participating in this project, tying his cultural roots with Hollywood's blockbuster scene.
On the set of "Anaconda," the trio has been captured sharing light-hearted moments, such as when Mello posted on social media videos of himself playing guitar with Black and Rudd as they improvised fun songs during breaks. “Check out this crew, Brazil! Here we are, goofing off in the background. Jack just spontaneously made up a song for the movie,” Mello noted. His social media posts continuously highlight the camaraderie among the cast and how their energy is translating to the filming process.
Beyond mere entertainment, the filmmakers aim to marry comedy with the elements of horror and adventure, embracing satire of the Hollywood tropes familiar to genre enthusiasts. Deadline reported on the film's producers emphasizing the potential for imaginative storytelling, poking fun at the clichés of the film industry. Mello also hinted at this whimsical direction when he spoke about how this project allows his character and the ensemble to express themselves differently compared to conventional roles.
With the directorial vision coming from Tom Gormican, known for his work on projects like "The Weight of Talent," the film is expected to retain action and humor, appealing to both longtime fans of the original film and new audiences alike. Gormican, along with co-writer Kevin Etten, looks to craft a narrative structure where nostalgia meets contemporary humor.
Adding to the film's appeal are notable actors like Thandiwe Newton, who portrays one of the childhood friends on this reunion adventure, Steve Zahn, Ione Skye, and Daniela Melchior, each bringing their unique flair to the ensemble. These characters are set to navigate not just the threats of the jungle, but also the trials of friendship and self-discovery amid the chaos of their remake.
Set against the backdrop of Australia where the film is currently being shot, the cast is enjoying the filming experience as they prepare for the anticipated release. Mello’s posts reflect his sentiments, sharing, “It’s a new chapter of my career, finding joy and fun doing what I love. Filming it all here is different but familiar.” Such insights highlight the exploratory nature of his commitment, shedding light on the changing avenues of his artistic expression.
The excitement surrounding the release of the new "Anaconda" is palpable. With its blend of humor, thrilling adventure, and nostalgic connections, it seeks to carve out its own legacy, standing alongside the iconic original. Audiences can look forward to laughing, gasping, and perhaps even finding echoes of their own life experiences within the film. The countdown to the cinematic release has begun, and it appears ready to offer viewers something both hilarious and thrilling this Christmas.