Sony Pictures’ “Anaconda” is one of the latest comedies to highlight the beauty and danger of the South American rainforest. If you’ve seen the film on Netflix and feel compelled to book a trip yourself, you may be shocked to learn that “Anaconda” was actually shot all the way on the other side of the globe.
Though the narrative takes place in the heart of Brazil, the movie was captured in various locales across Queensland, Australia. Some shots used the area’s super-diverse biomes, while others came together on a soundstage with top-notch visual effects. If you’re interested in getting an up-close look for yourself, there’s never been a better time to plan an itinerary for a visit to the land down under! Before long, you could find yourself wrestling with giant snakes, using your friends as live bait, and pontificating over which classic 90s films are in desperate need of a modern reboot.
Why Was ‘Anaconda’ Filmed In Australia?
It may sound a little bizarre at first to learn that “Anaconda” used Queensland as a substitute for the Brazilian rainforest. Even so, major film buffs will note that the outback is a great place to film a movie that requires many outdoor scenes. Filming in the real Amazon would come with a number of major health and safety hazards, and require the production to spend untold sums on extra insurance, on-site medics and possibly even helicopters for emergency evacuations.
Queensland, on the other hand, offers a number of vibrant backdrops that can be easily adjusted in post to mimic the real living conditions of a South American anaconda. Likewise, The Location Guide points out that Queensland has a thriving film community, with access to a variety of visual effects hubs and studio space for indoor shots.
Numerous other films have been shot in and around Queensland, Australia, including 2017’s “Aquaman,” “Pacific Rim Uprising,” “The Lost World: Jurassic Park,” “Scooby-Doo” and “Thor: Ragnarok.” Eagle-eyed viewers may even spot visual similarities in some of these films, as they often use the same scenic views, local businesses and tourist sites. Queensland is a very large state, home to many different biomes. These include gorgeous waterfalls, thick forests, stunning beaches and plenty of attractions to keep you busy on your own sightseeing adventure.
Tips For Navigating Queensland Filming Locations Like A Pro
Key Scenes: Most of “Anaconda” was shot in the Gold Coast region of Queensland. PrimeTimer reports that filming locations include Springbrook National Park and Tamborine Mountain, both right along the coastline. Other notable backdrops include Purling Brook Falls, a perfect destination for avid hikers. “I love the fact that it’s such a big-scale production, you know? We were really in that kind of environment in the jungle. We didn’t have to do a lot of green screen and fake it,” actress Thandie Newton explained to Blavity’s Shadow and Act.
Best Time to Visit: Though Queensland is a beautiful state to explore year-round, most visitors are encouraged to make the pilgrimage during the dry season. May through October are the best months for outdoor activities, thanks to lower humidity, sunny weather and plenty of outdoor activities. If you’re interested in checking out the Great Barrier Reef, the display is said to be most vibrant in June and July.
Transportation Options: Most metropolitan areas in Australia have a comprehensive public transportation grid. Bustling cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer buses, trains, trams and taxis. Coastline cities are also home to ferries, which allow you to explore the surrounding areas while taking in truly breathtaking views. If you’re planning to go completely off the grid, you may need to rent a vehicle or hire a chauffeur. Still, as long as you stick to the usual sites, you should be free to save some money by relying on public transit.
Interior shots in “Anaconda” were filmed on complex soundstages at Village Roadshow Studios in Oxenford, with a mix of practical effects and post-production to create an authentic rainforest environment. Those who wish to visit Village Roadshow Studios may be out of luck, since the active production space doesn’t offer walk-on tours. Luckily, there is a litany of rides, attractions and movie memorabilia available to check out at the nearby Warner Bros. Movie World.
Things to Do: In the Gold Coast, where “Anaconda” was captured, you’ll find plenty of excursions to explore. This sunny region is home to Surfers Paradise Beach and the Dreamworld theme park. If you’re an “Anaconda” super-fan, looking to get as close to the movie experience as possible, you can even explore the Tamborine Rainforest and Natural Bridge. For a birds-eye view of the city, be sure to check out SkyPoint Climb, which will take you nearly 1,000 feet into the clouds, along the exterior of the Q1 building in Surfers Paradise.
Where to Eat: If you wind up staying in the Brisbane area, you’ll want to indulge in some of the finest foods at 7 Mile House, Na Na’s Kitchen, or the deceptively quaint Melissa’s Taqueria. Meanwhile, over in Gold Coast, you won’t want to miss out on fresh-caught seafood, especially served from local favorites like the Seascape Restaurant & Bar, Baba Joon Persian Grill, and Brazilian Flame Bar and Grill. Even if you fail to score a reservation at any of the above restaurants, you’ll find that Queensland is absolutely buzzing with delicious food and plenty of opportunities to experiment.
Where to Stay: If you’re looking to save on cash, you can find a handful of chain hotels scattered throughout Australia’s sunshine state. Still, it might be worth paying a little extra to get a fully authentic down-under experience. Consider checking out Voco Brisbane City Centre, Novotel Brisbane South Bank, or Stamford Plaza for an upscale stay. If you’re sticking to Gold Coast, similar arrangements can be made at Nightelier Mermaid Waters, Rhapsody Resort and Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jennifer Lopez in “Anaconda” (2025)?
Jennifer Lopez appears in the new “Anaconda” film in a minor cameo. J-Lo is named-checked several times, as the characters muse over her performance in the 1997 original. Ice Cube also appears in a similar capacity, remarking that “Jenny’s from the block” when asked if the actress can survive a run-in with the titular movie monster. During her cameo appearance, Lopez meets with Jack Black’s Doug and asks him if he’s interested in directing an officially licensed reboot of the “Anaconda” film, produced by Sony.
Why are so many films shot in Australia?
Though Australia lacks the tax incentives of locales like Toronto, Ontario, the nation is home to a wide array of popular films. This is largely due to the diverse landscapes across the land down under, as well as the top-shelf labor force in the Aussie film industry. Productions that shoot in Australia can take advantage of the nation’s suite of special effects teams, as well as its willing and capable behind-the-scenes crews. Sometimes, like in the case of “Anaconda,” the backdrops can sub in for numerous foreign locales, including the Brazilian rainforest.
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