Queensland's tropical locations will double for the Amazon rainforest in a reimagined version of the 1997 film Anaconda, which is set to inject $40 million into the state's economy and create jobs for more than 300 screen industry professionals.
The production, secured through Screen Queensland’s Production Attraction Strategy, has commenced filming and will star comedic actors Jack Black and Paul Rudd.
The news follows other screen industry announcements for Queensland this month including plans for a Bluey feature film and the start of filming for the romantic comedy You, Always with Hollywood star Adrian Grenier of Entourage fame.
Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten (The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent) wrote the script for the Anaconda remake, with Gormican directing. Brad Fuller and Andrew Form are producing.
Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek says Sony Pictures’ decision to film Anaconda in Queensland was a direct result of the Queensland Government’s competitive incentives through Screen Queensland.
“Queensland’s global reputation as a leading screen destination continues to grow and deliver economic dividends right across the state,” Minister Langbroek says.
“Filming Anaconda will inject an estimated $40 million into the state’s economy and create jobs for more than 300 screen practitioners, which is a wonderful outcome for our great state.
“We are proud to support projects like Anaconda to provide more work for our talented film industry professionals, while showcasing Queensland’s incredible environment and rich culture to the world.”
Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney says that the agency is thrilled to welcome the production and the team from Sony Pictures to Queensland.
“With the backing of state and federal incentives, combined with the versatility of our stunning natural environments featuring rainforests in easy reach, Queensland has become a premier destination for high calibre location-based productions like Anaconda,” Feeney says.
“As well as benefitting from the expertise of our highly skilled local crew, this production will also help build the next generation of below-the-line practitioners through our Attachment Program, with four trainee positions created in the camera and sound departments, as well as greens, the art department extension responsible for creating the Amazonian jungle.”
Andy Davis, president of production administration at Sony Pictures, says Queensland offers a unique combination of natural beauty and world-class facilities, making it the perfect backdrop for the story.
"The state’s film-friendly environment and experienced local crews provide a seamless and supportive production experience, which is invaluable for bringing this film to life," Davis says.
Anaconda joins an extensive slate of films and series to be made in Queensland in 2024, including Ron Howard’s Eden, Balls Up, The Bluff, Good Cop/Bad Cop, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and Australian productions Audrey, Black Snow, Dangerous Animals and Gettin’ Square sequel, Spit.
Help us deliver quality journalism to you.
As a free and independent news site providing daily updates
during a period of unprecedented challenges for businesses everywhere
we call on your support