Thescreescore – The highly anticipated Anaconda reboot, a meta-cinematic venture from the creative minds behind The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten, promises a unique blend of horror and self-aware comedy. While the film, starring comedic titans Jack Black and Paul Rudd alongside the formidable Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn, leans heavily into its humorous premise, Newton and Zahn recently divulged a behind-the-scenes anecdote that proves even the most intense on-screen moments can succumb to unexpected, and utterly hilarious, off-screen antics. This particular incident, involving an ill-timed bodily function and a perfectly delivered line, nearly derailed a crucial chase sequence, cementing the film’s reputation for unscripted hilarity.
The new Anaconda reimagines the cult classic through a distinctly meta lens, following a quartet of childhood friends—portrayed by Black, Rudd, Newton, and Zahn—who, after their youthful filmmaking aspirations fade into disappointing adult realities, decide to reboot their favorite monster movie. Their ambitious, albeit amateur, production quickly spirals into genuine peril when they find themselves pursued by the very giant serpent they intended to feature. This innovative narrative framework allows for both homage and satirical commentary on the reboot culture, all while delivering genuine thrills and laughs.
During an exclusive interview with thescreescore.com, Thandiwe Newton recounted one of the most challenging scenes to shoot, not for its physical demands, but for the uncontrollable laughter it provoked. The scene involved the four protagonists in a high-stakes chase, fleeing the colossal snake down a narrow alleyway. With the camera strategically positioned on their backs, and a crane simulating the monstrous predator, the tension was meant to be palpable. However, a pre-shoot lunch featuring beans had an unfortunate, yet comedic, consequence for Jack Black. Newton, laughing as she recalled the event, explained that with every frantic step Black took, a distinct "fart" punctuated the chase, turning the dramatic flight into an inadvertent symphony of flatulence.
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This unexpected auditory accompaniment sent the entire cast into fits of suppressed giggles. While the camera angle initially concealed their mirth, the moment they had to turn and face the lens, their faces were contorted in strained efforts to maintain composure. The breaking point arrived when Paul Rudd, with impeccable comedic timing, delivered a scripted line that perfectly coincided with an unscripted, colossal fart. "Paul has the ultimate line," Newton explained, "which is such a callback to our characters’ childhoods. He lifts up whatever he’s lifting up, and he rips the biggest fart you have ever f***ing heard. And we are done." Steve Zahn corroborated, adding, "We all just collapsed." Newton lauded Rudd’s quick wit, describing his mind as "Quicksilver," capable of instantaneous comedic brilliance.
Beyond the on-set hilarity, both Newton and Zahn emphasized the profound bond forged among the cast. They described the production as a rare and joyful experience, a "perfect storm" in an industry often steeped in cynicism. Far from retreating to trailers during breaks, the quartet frequently congregated in a shared tent, their conversations and laughter flowing freely. This genuine camaraderie, evident in their off-screen interactions, seamlessly translated into their on-screen chemistry. The long-standing friendship between Black and Rudd, who have known each other since childhood, was particularly highlighted, with Newton expressing surprise that they hadn’t collaborated on a buddy film sooner, likening their dynamic to classic comedic duos like Laurel and Hardy. Zahn also playfully revealed his Saving Silverman mustache as a subtle nod to his past work, showcasing the layers of inside jokes woven into the film.
The set was also a vibrant hub of musicality, a natural outcome given the talents of its stars. Jack Black, known for his musical prowess, was constantly singing, often joined by Paul Rudd, whom Newton praised as an excellent musician, and Zahn, a skilled guitarist. The production’s sound team even embraced this impromptu musicality, often playing along when Black initiated a song, transforming downtime into spontaneous jam sessions. This relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, fostered by directors Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten’s generous approach to the script, allowed for significant improvisation, enriching the film with authentic, unforced humor.
The interview also touched upon the stars’ unique sense of style, particularly Black and Rudd’s matching "snaky" tie-dye jumpsuits worn for a promotional appearance. Rudd’s spontaneous suggestion for "twinsies" led Black to commission custom outfits, highlighting their playful rapport. The conversation then shifted to cherished memorabilia. Rudd, a collector of historical artifacts, boasted items like an original invitation to the Brooklyn Bridge grand opening and stationery from the Hindenburg. Black, however, shared a more personal anecdote about his School of Rock guitar. Aware of studios’ reluctance to let actors keep props, he cleverly used his own guitar for the film, ensuring it remained his personal memento, a testament to his foresight and attachment to the iconic instrument.
Looking ahead, the actors pondered which past characters they’d like to revisit. Paul Rudd expressed a desire to see Jack Black reprise his roles in Nacho Libre or Bernie Tiede, praising his performances. Black, in turn, acknowledged the likely return of his Ant-Man character but also passionately advocated for Rudd’s return to Broadway. He fondly recalled Rudd’s "magnificent" performance in The Shape of Things, lamenting its short run. Rudd, whose roots are in theater, mused about potential stage revivals, playfully suggesting ambitious projects like I’m Not Rappaport with Don Cheadle or a musical adaptation of Mac and Me—a film Black humorously claimed to know nothing about, despite its cult status.
The interview concluded with Black enthusiastically recommending Paul Rudd’s "all-time funniest" podcast interview on Michael Cera and Rick Glassman’s "Take Your Shoes Off," highlighting a particularly dangerous-looking stunt at its finale, which Black suspected Rudd had performed himself. This final anecdote perfectly encapsulated the genuine admiration and playful dynamic shared by the cast, underscoring the infectious energy that undoubtedly permeated the Anaconda set and promises to translate into a truly memorable cinematic experience for audiences.
Anaconda is now in theaters!
Release Date: December 24, 2025
Runtime: 99 minutes
Director: Tom Gormican
Writers: Tom Gormican, Kevin Etten
Producers: Andrew Form, Brad Fuller
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