Tom Hardy’s return as Eddie Brock and Venom in “Venom: The Last Dance” brings the trilogy to a close with a nuanced blend of humor and emotional resonance. Kelly Marcel’s directorial debut ambitiously balances the film’s signature dark comedy with higher stakes, giving Hardy space to show the depth of Eddie and Venom’s relationship like never before. Hardy has honed the voice and personality of Venom, turning what began as playful banter into a fully realized dialogue, reaching the peak of their quirky and endearing dynamic.
The humor is sharper than ever, with Eddie and Venom’s exchanges feeling deeply connected and hilariously self-aware. Hardy’s portrayal of Venom has matured into a complex and distinct character, one who is just as integral as Eddie himself. Their back-and-forth is quick, witty, and engaging, showing the bond that has evolved through the films. This comedic rhythm, driven by Venom’s impulsive honesty and Eddie’s reluctant acceptance, makes for some of the film’s most enjoyable moments, bringing a new level of humor that feels both natural and perfectly timed.
The film’s action sequences are impressive, with visual effects showcasing explosive symbiote battles that reflect the intensity of the storyline. However, the reliance on CGI occasionally overwhelms the clarity of these scenes, particularly in the chaotic climax where action nearly overshadows the story’s emotional depth. Marcel’s attempt to juggle tones sometimes makes the narrative feel slightly disjointed, as it shifts between dark comedy and serious stakes.
The screenplay ambitiously tries to connect multiple threads, but this occasionally diffuses the impact of key emotional moments, making the pacing feel uneven.
While The Last Dance succeeds in bringing entertaining visuals and laughs, its efforts to balance humor with gravitas don’t always fully satisfy. Marcel’s direction delivers thrills but doesn’t entirely resolve the trilogy’s overarching themes, leaving a slightly unresolved note that’s rare in typical superhero fare. Hardy’s performances remain the strongest part of the film, with his deep commitment to both Eddie and Venom bringing a unique authenticity that resonates even in the trilogy’s weaker moments.
Ultimately, Hardy’s mastery of Venom’s voice and character serves as the emotional core of the film, making Venom feel less like a sidekick and more like a co-protagonist. His evolution in developing Venom’s personality brings a fittingly unpredictable end to one of cinema’s strangest and most enjoyable antihero duos, making “Venom: The Last Dance” a memorable, if slightly uneven, conclusion to an unconventional superhero saga.
VENOM: THE LAST DANCE opens in theaters October 25th, 2024.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Daniel Schwartz (Contributor) is a New Jersey native who loves watching movies. His favorite genres include action, comedies, and sci-fi. Click Here to check out Daniel's Articles.