“Venom: The Last Dance,” directed by Kelly Marcel, marks the conclusion of Sony’s Venom trilogy, yet it struggles to deliver a satisfying farewell to one of Marvel’s most unconventional antiheroes. Released in 2024, the film continues the misadventures of Eddie Brock, played by Tom Hardy, and his alien symbiote, Venom. While the previous installments offered a blend of dark humor and action, this final chapter feels like a misstep, weighed down by a weak narrative and lackluster performances.
A Weak Storyline
The film opens with high expectations, following the success of “Venom” (2018) and “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” (2021). However, it quickly becomes apparent that the storyline lacks the depth and excitement necessary for a grand finale. The film’s antagonist, portrayed by a talented Chiwetel Ejiofor, fails to evoke the menace and complexity one would hope for in a villain opposite Venom. Instead, the character feels more like an afterthought, leading to a predictable plot that lacks tension and engagement.
Repetitive Dynamics
The chemistry between Eddie Brock and Venom, which once sparked joy and laughter, now feels monotonous. Their witty banter, initially a highlight of the series, loses its charm as the film progresses. The repetitive nature of their interactions transforms the dynamic from humorous to tedious, undermining the emotional stakes that should be at play. What could have been a powerful exploration of their bond becomes a dull exchange that leaves the audience yearning for the spark of earlier films.
Lengthy and Stretched
At just over two hours, the film suffers from pacing issues, with a screenplay that feels excessively stretched. Several scenes linger longer than necessary, diluting the impact of key moments. Subplots that could have added depth instead contribute to the overall bloated runtime. The film’s length becomes a significant drawback, as the audience is left feeling restless rather than captivated.
Cast and Performances
Despite a strong supporting cast, including Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, and Stephen Graham, the performances fail to elevate the material. Hardy’s portrayal of Eddie Brock continues to exhibit his trademark intensity, yet even he seems to struggle against the weight of a lackluster script. The potential of the ensemble cast remains largely untapped, with characters that feel underdeveloped and uninspired.
The Humor That Misses
One of the hallmarks of the previous films was their ability to balance dark themes with humor. “Venom: The Last Dance” attempts to replicate this formula, but the comedic moments often fall flat. Jokes feel forced and fail to resonate, leaving the film with an uneven tone that oscillates awkwardly between action and humor.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity
While “Venom: The Last Dance” may offer moments of entertainment for dedicated fans of the franchise, it ultimately struggles to provide the thrilling conclusion that the trilogy deserves. The film’s weak storyline, repetitive character dynamics, and pacing issues lead to an unsatisfying experience. In a genre where strong narratives and compelling characters are essential, this installment feels like a missed opportunity to truly explore the complexities of Eddie Brock and Venom’s relationship. As the credits roll, viewers are left with the nagging feeling that Venom’s journey deserved a far more compelling finale.