Venom: The Last Dance Review - Embracing Its Ridiculousness

Venom: The Last Dance - A Review of the Latest Installment in the Franchise

Though Sony's previous standalone Venom movies may not have set the world on fire, they succeeded in creating a strange blend of odd couple humor and bloodless body horror that attracted a dedicated audience. This unique flavor positioned the films in the so-bad-they're-kind-of-fun territory, leaving many wondering what a Venom feature could achieve without Spider-Man. However, the box-office success of these films convinced Sony to proceed with a third installment, Venom: The Last Dance, from writer/director Kelly Marcel.

Plot Overview and Themes

Venom: The Last Dance does not stray far from its predecessors' formula, maintaining a narrative focused on the chaotic relationship between disgraced journalist Eddie Brock (played by Tom Hardy) and his symbiotic counterpart, Venom. Rather than diving into the multiverse for grand crossovers, the film stays true to its roots, primarily exploring the intricacies of their long-term partnership. While it may not fulfill the promise of madness that was teased in earlier adaptations, it certainly brings the saga of Eddie and Venom to a fitting conclusion.

The Continuing Adventure of Eddie and Venom

The Last Dance picks up after the events of Let There Be Carnage, catching audiences up with Eddie and Venom's tumultuous life filled with bizarre incidents and absurd adventures. Unlike other superhero films that broaden their narratives by involving multiple dimensions, this installment does the unexpected by resisting the typical multiverse tropes. Instead, it forces Eddie to confront the consequences of past encounters with authorities and symbiote-related chaos.

Fugitive Fables

Eddie finds himself on the run in Mexico, pursued by special-ops soldier Rex Strickland (Chiwetel Ejiofor). The narrative sparks intrigue as audiences follow Eddie and Venom's desperate attempt to evade capture while contemplating their next move—fleeing to New York City. This premise sets up a compelling exploration of the relationship's weight, as the duo grapples with government scrutiny amid their chaotic backdrop.

Introducing a New Villain - Knull

As the film unfolds, viewers are introduced to a new antagonist, Knull (voiced by Andy Serkis). Knull, the symbiote god, aims to reclaim control over his offspring. However, the villain's role feels forced and contrived, leaving much to be desired in terms of credibility and coherence within the story. In an ironic twist, The Last Dance even references Thanos, highlighting its struggle to establish Knull as a formidable foe in the crowded superhero landscape.

Visual Effects and Performance

Despite critiques about its plot and underdeveloped supporting characters, Venom: The Last Dance shines when it showcases the genuineness of Eddie and Venom's connection. Tom Hardy's performances continue to be a highlight, skillfully embodying both Eddie's weariness and Venom's quirky charm. Viewers witness a more emotionally nuanced portrayal of Venom, enhancing the depth of their partnership.

Final Thoughts on Venom: The Last Dance

While plagued with weak plotlines and an overall lack of character development, Venom: The Last Dance still maintains a certain level of entertainment appeal, particularly for fans of the franchise. Those who enjoyed the energetic antics of the previous installments will likely find enjoyment in the continued escapades of Eddie and Venom. However, this film exemplifies the struggles inherent within the series, as it remains unsatisfying for those seeking a more profound cinematic experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Venom: The Last Dance encapsulates everything fans have come to expect from the series. It manages to bring some amusement while staying consistent with its comedic, chaotic roots. Available in theaters starting on October 25th, this film may just wrap things up for now in the lowbrow but entertaining world of Venom.