Jack Black and Paul Rudd in Talks for ‘Anaconda’ Re-Imagining

Jack Black and Paul Rudd are in early discussions to star in Columbia Pictures’ new interpretation of “Anaconda,” directed by Tom Gormican.

Gormican, known for “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” featuring Nicolas Cage, and “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” has co-written the script alongside Kevin Etten. This re-imagining of “Anaconda” is expected to have a humorous twist on the original storyline.

Although specific details remain vague, the film is not a direct remake of the 1997 thriller “Anaconda,” which starred Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, and Ice Cube. The original film followed a National Geographic crew taken hostage by a crazed hunter, played by Jon Voight, aiming to capture the world’s largest snake. Surprisingly, the movie grossed $136 million globally and led to four sequels.

Gormican’s version introduces a meta angle, reportedly centering on a group of friends dealing with mid-life crises who decide to recreate their favorite childhood movie. However, as they venture into the jungle, they find themselves in genuine danger. It’s not yet clear what roles Black and Rudd will take, but some lead characters include a wedding videographer moonlighting as a director and a washed-up actor who once starred in a cop show.

Brad Fuller and Andrew Form’s Fully Formed company is behind the production, which has been in development for some time. Earlier this week, Variety reported that Form, producer of all three “A Quiet Place” movies, signed a first-look deal with Sony’s Screen Gems. Both Black and Rudd have ongoing relationships with Sony due to their roles in the “Jumanji” and “Ghostbusters” franchises, respectively.

Black is represented by Sloane Offer, while Rudd is represented by UTA and Lighthouse Management. Gormican is represented by CAA and 3 Arts Entertainment.

The studio has not commented on the casting news, initially reported by Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter.