The Anaconda Legacy Strikes Back: A Box Office Phenomenon
In a thrilling turn of events, the new Anaconda movie has shattered expectations, becoming the second film in the franchise to conquer the $100 million milestone at the global box office. But here's where it gets controversial...
With a star-studded cast including Jack Black, Paul Rudd, and Thandiwe Newton, the reboot takes a daring approach, blending comedy and horror in a way that has left audiences divided.
According to Deadline, the film's domestic and international success has propelled it to a remarkable $101.6 million worldwide, a feat unmatched since the original 1997 classic.
And this is the part most people miss: the original Anaconda, starring Jennifer Lopez and Ice Cube, remains the franchise's crown jewel, having grossed an impressive $137 million globally. However, the subsequent sequels, including the 2004 installment, Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid, failed to replicate this success.
The later Anaconda movies, produced for television, didn't even make it to the big screen, with Anaconda 3: Offspring, Anacondas: Trail of Blood, and Lake Placid vs. Anaconda all premiering on Syfy.
But the 2025 Anaconda, made with a reported budget of $45 million, has not only achieved a franchise milestone but is also on track to be profitable in its own right. It premiered on Christmas Day and has held its own against stiff competition, including Avatar: Fire and Ash and The Housemaid.
With a mixed bag of reviews, the film's Rotten Tomatoes score stands at 51%, but audiences have shown a more favorable reaction, praising the outrageous comedy and the stellar performances of Black, Rudd, and Zahn.
Anaconda continues Jack Black's box office dominance, following the massive success of A Minecraft Movie and The Super Mario Bros. Movie. While Anaconda may not reach those heights, it's yet another win for Black.
As the new Anaconda surpasses $100 million globally, the future of the franchise looks brighter than ever. Will we see more comedic adventures, or will the horror element make a comeback? Only time will tell.
Release Date: December 24, 2025
Runtime: 100 minutes
Director: Tom Gormican
Writers: Kevin Etten, Tom Gormican
Producers: Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, Kevin Etten, Tom Gormican, Alex Ginno, Erin Vitali
