2.0 out of 5 star rating
The Venom movies have consistently held a unique position within the world of superhero films. As the cornerstone of Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (which has also birthed questionable failures like Morbius and Madame Web), these films stand apart from many other superhero productions, differing both in the universe they portray and the somewhat eccentric approach they try to emulate.
The 2018 original film Venom and its 2021 sequel, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, have received mixed reviews from critics but have been successful financially. The series has developed a kind of devoted fanbase primarily due to the intriguing dynamic between Eddie Brock, a journalist, and the title character, the symbiote who inhabits him, portrayed by Tom Hardy in a dual role.
The most recent movie, aptly named Venom: The Final Waltz, appears to signify the end of this specific storyline, generally delivering more of the familiar elements.
After the thrilling incidents from the last movie, Eddie and Venom find themselves evading capture by authorities, particularly military scientists stationed at Area 51. This situation offers ample chances for the characters to embrace the humor that has consistently appealed to fans, as they embark on a journey together.
As time passes, it becomes apparent that they have more than just law enforcement officers pursuing them. They are also locked in combat with a minion of the symbiote ruler Knull, who seeks a device to release his imprisoned leader.
In the cinematic universe I’m critiquing, there’s an intriguing artifact known as a Codex that resides within the protagonist, Eddie, but only manifests when Venom assumes his complete form. Consequently, much of the film revolves around Eddie suppressing the urge to transform, lest he draw unwanted attention from our antagonistic tracker.
Despite numerous imperfections, these movies have consistently boasted stellar B-grade acting talents, and that trend continues in the latest installment.
Earlier instances have highlighted the impressive acting skills of stars like Michelle Williams, Riz Ahmed, Naomie Harris, and Woody Harrelson. This time around, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, and a returning Stephen Graham join the cast.
But of course, the film is still headlined by the always committed Hardy.
Six years after the initial movie, it’s clear the actor, who shares a story credit too, still enjoys playing both roles. However, there might be some doubts about how exciting another Venom spin-off would be for many viewers.
Similar to the past installments, “Venom: The Last Dance” is a blend of tones, essentially presenting two distinct movies. One part focuses on Eddie and Venom’s road trip adventures, filled with their typical back-and-forth banter, playful squabbles, and amusing escapades – like an encounter with a family overly enthusiastic about UFOs, eager to catch a glimpse of extraterrestrial life.
Another version has a more serious and commonplace science fiction plot that revolves around a duo of military scientists, who are unlike each other, pursuing and conducting experiments with symbiotes. One character in this group carries a sorrowful past, while the other shares connections to a comic book figure. However, neither of these distinct narratives, which ultimately clash in an action-packed yet anticlimactic conclusion, stand out on their own, let alone seamlessly combined.
Lovers of the initial two installments are bound to appreciate elements of the primary Eddie/Venom friendship narrative. A humorous moment occurs when Venom shows greater enthusiasm than Eddie during a camper van rendition of David Bowie’s Space Oddity, and there’s an entertaining scene where Venom transforms into different animals, such as a frog.
Generally speaking, the monotonous back-and-forth between the main characters feels worn out, and Venom frequently comes off as more annoying than funny. In its closing scenes, the movie tries to evoke strong emotions, but it’s mainly dedicated fans of the series who will find themselves deeply touched.
On the whole, it’s another lacklustre, poorly written adventure.
Venom: The Last Dance is in UK cinemas from Friday 25th October 2024.
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2024-10-23 22:03