Paul Rudd’s Anaconda Reboot Surpasses Original in Ratings Despite Criticism

The latest entry in the Anaconda franchise, featuring actors Paul Rudd and Jack Black, has generated mixed reviews from critics but has managed to outperform the original 1997 film in terms of Rotten Tomatoes ratings. The new film, directed by Tom Gormican, is described as a meta reboot, focusing on two lifelong friends who embark on a comedic journey to remake their favorite movie, Anaconda. This twist on the horror-action genre has received a lukewarm reception, yet it holds a slightly better score than its predecessor.

Critics have been vocal about their disappointment with the film’s execution. The HollywoodChicago.com review by Patrick McDonald remarked that while the film is “weirdly introspective enough to work,” it does not reach its full potential. He noted the performances of Rudd, Black, and Steve Zahn as being strong enough to keep the film engaging, but overall, it lacks the comedic punch expected from a holiday release. He summarized it as “not the powerhouse Christmas comedy,” but added, “not a bomb either.”

Similarly, Jonathon Sim from ComingSoon rated the film a modest 5 out of 10, stating that while there are moments of over-the-top humor, the film ultimately “misses the mark.” Jeffrey Harris from 411mania criticized the movie for its humor, suggesting that it fails to deliver genuine laughs despite its attempt to parody Hollywood’s obsession with intellectual properties. He remarked that the film “pathetically falls flat on its face.”

On a more positive note, M.N. Miller from FandomWire offered a different perspective, highlighting that the film “works by being absurdly funny.” Miller praised the reboot for reinventing a flawed film and creating something fresh, suggesting that its absurdity contributes to its appeal.

Despite the criticism surrounding its comedic elements, the new Anaconda film has performed better than the original on Rotten Tomatoes. The 2023 reboot currently holds a Tomatometer score of 51%, based on 84 reviews, surpassing the original’s score of 40%. The audience response is significantly more favorable, with a Popcornmeter score of 79% for the new film, while the 1997 film has an audience score of just 24%.

This shift in audience reception highlights a changing trend in how films are perceived over time, particularly in the age of streaming, where older films often find new life and relevance. The success of Rudd and Black’s Anaconda reboot, despite its critical reviews, suggests a unique appeal that resonates with contemporary viewers.

As the film continues to attract audiences, it remains to be seen how it will perform in box office terms and whether it can build upon its current ratings as more viewers share their opinions.