The film industry has been buzzing with excitement surrounding the latest installment of Sony's popular anti-hero series, Venom: The Last Dance, which hit theaters on October 25, 2024. Directed by Kelly Marcel, who also wrote the previous entries, this film promises to deliver on action, humor, and the signature bizarre chemistry between Eddie Brock and the symbiotic alien now ingrained within him.
This movie marks the conclusion of what has been described as one of the most inconsistently reviewed comic book trilogies. Fans have been eager to see how this final chapter would wrap up the saga of Eddie Brock, magnificently portrayed by Tom Hardy, and his wild alter-ego, Venom. Following previous films Venom (2018) and Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021), this final entry has received lukewarm critiques but promises engaging visuals and captivating moments for fans of the franchise.
The story kicks off shortly after the events of Let There Be Carnage, with Eddie and Venom on the run after Eddie is wrongfully accused of murder. Patrick Mulligan’s death places the duo squarely at the center of U.S. military investigations and on the radar of Knull, the film’s formidable antagonist. Knull, played by Andy Serkis, is portrayed as the twisted god of symbiotes, with ominous plans to conquer and destroy. This sets the stage for high-stakes conflict as both Eddie and Venom must fend off government agents and monstrous extraterrestrials.
At the film's heart is the fast-paced chemistry between Eddie and Venom, which continues to captivate audiences. The screenplay cleverly interjects humor and pop culture references, including nods to classics like Thelma & Louise and E.T., ensuring there is never a dull moment on screen. These references enrich the narrative, hinting at the close bond Eddie and Venom share, almost like old friends rewatching favorite films. The banter and camaraderie between them provide much-needed levity amid the darker themes present throughout the action-packed sequences.
Venom: The Last Dance eschews deep-seated emotional exploration for the most part, favoring rather straightforward visual storytelling. Still, there are notable sequences where their relationship deepens, showcasing moments of vulnerability from Eddie and Venom as they face impending doom. This emotional connection leaves lasting impressions, making viewers root for their success against overwhelming odds.
The film dives deep when it introduces Knull's imperative to retrieve the Codex, which is integral for his return to power. A key plot point reveals how Eddie’s bond with Venom gives rise to this Codex, making them not only fugitives but also pivotal players on the cosmic chessboard of the universe. Knull, wishing to reclaim his strength, leads to spectacular showdowns, with the action ramped up considerably. Audiences will undoubtedly appreciate the energetic chases and violent encounters as Venom faces off against Knull’s monstrous henchmen, known as xenophages.
Critics, who have largely viewed the film mixture of silliness and seriousness with skepticism, noted its convoluted plot twists and tonal inconsistencies. With ratings fluctuated on various platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, it suggests audiences find enjoyment where critics fall short. According to recent scores, Venom: The Last Dance holds a 37% rating among critics but enjoys significantly higher audience scores, showcasing the divide between fan expectations and critic evaluations.
Still, the film shines thanks to its aesthetics, blending CGI-driven spectacle with clever character interactions. It captures the essence of what Venom fans have come to expect—a blend of humor, over-the-top action, and outrageousness, capturing the essence of comic book lore. The film’s conclusion prompts some unexpected emotional moments, leading to audience members expressing genuine attachment to the characters through laughter and tension.
Importantly, Venom: The Last Dance features not just the expected comic book action but also introduces two post-credit scenes, hinting at possible future directions for the franchise. The first highlights Knull as he declares, "The King in Black is awake," setting up for potential larger cosmic threats. The second scene, set after the credits roll, has viewers buzzing with speculation, leaving many to wonder about the significance of characters returning and the potential for future crossovers.
The cosmic connection and underlying themes have stirred conversations about where Sony’s so-called Spider-Man Universe is headed. While the last scene ignites speculation about new characters or old favorites returning, the future appears uncertain. Director Kelly Marcel's intentions to continue exploring symbiote lore could mean more films are on the horizon, but many hope these stories will bridge the gap to the wider Marvel universe, especially after the post-credit teasers connected it to the events from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Though Venom: The Last Dance doesn’t break new ground thematically, it remains consistent with the previous titles and encapsulates what many have enjoyed: excitement. Fans of the franchise will likely deem it enjoyable entertainment, though critics may argue it lacks the depth and nuance present in other superhero narratives. With the film now showing, viewers are invited to experience this last dance firsthand, joining Eddie Brock and Venom for one final chaotic adventure.
