Paul Rudd described his experience working on “Anaconda,” his latest film, with a glowing review. In the comedy-horror flick, Rudd acts alongside Jack Black as amateur filmmakers traveling to the Amazon to shoot their own remake of the original 1997 “Anaconda.” Black and Rudd’s characters, Doug and Griff, are joined by Steve Zahn’s Kenny and Thandiwe Newton’s Claire in their movie-making journey.
Speaking about the relatable nature of his character’s filmmaking pursuits, Rudd revealed to PEOPLE that he, too, would make amateur movies on his camcorder when he was younger. The “Ant-Man” star entered the film industry when he was 22 years old.
“We used to make little goofy things,” he said, reflecting on his childhood habits. Of “Anaconda”’s use of aspiring filmmakers, he remarked that it is “very near and dear to my heart.”
Black and Rudd ‘Relate’ to their Characters
Both Black and Rudd described themselves as relating to their characters. Black went as far as to say that the two are somewhat “playing [them]selves.” He spoke of “Anaconda” fondly, saying that the filmmaking process was “very close to home.”
Black compared his own time on movie sets with that of the film’s characters. He reflected on the friendships in “Anaconda” and how they are in pursuit of “mak[ing] their dreams come true,” remarking that this is how he feels every time he makes a film.
Black and Rudd also highlighted the importance of focusing on the positive moments on set. They acknowledged that there are many stressful times when working on a movie, especially when surrounded by a massive cast and crew.
“If you can find a way to relax and enjoy those stressful moments and have fun, then that’s the art,” said Black of the chaos.
‘Anaconda’ is a ‘Yummy, Yummy’ Mix
Black, meanwhile, spoke about “Anaconda” with a tasty metaphor. He described the new movie, directed by Tom Gormican, as dabbling in both horror and comedy. He spoke about the genre blend with enthusiasm, calling it a “nice, perfect, yummy, yummy, mix-mix.”
“Get peanut butter and jelly…that’s a special thing,” Black continued. He expressed his gratitude for joining an “original” project like “Anaconda.”
Clips from the film posted to social media show Rudd, Black, Zahn and Thandiwe face to face with the harrowing, horrific titular anaconda. The upcoming movie centers on the four main characters’ journey to the Amazon, where things quickly go awry after they discover an actual giant anaconda.
A final trailer for “Anaconda” (2025) arrived a week prior to its Christmas day release.
