"Venom: The Last Dance Review - Why the Original Film Still Reigns Supreme"
‘Venom: The Last Dance’ Review: Nothing Beats the First Film
Source: Jakarta Globe
Overview of the Film
Release and Context
“Venom: The Last Dance,” directed by Kelly Marcel, has premiered in Indonesian theaters as the conclusion of the Marvel antihero trilogy featuring the character known for his iconic black liquid-like form. Tom Hardy reprises his role as Eddie Brock, the investigative journalist and host of Venom.
Plot Summary
The storyline follows Eddie and Venom on the run following events from “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” (2021). The antagonist Knull, creator of the symbiotes, sends monstrous threats aiming to capture Eddie-Venom’s “codex,” essential for Knull to unleash chaos upon the universe.
Cinematic Experience
Visuals and Themes
While the film showcases impressive visual effects and a compelling exploration of Eddie and Venom's complex relationship, its pacing and the initial misleading intro undermine the action. Instead of Knull, viewers encounter less engaging enemies lacking personality.
Emotional Elements
The film manages to deliver a heartfelt farewell to the duo through a nostalgic montage set to Maroon 5’s “Memories,” encapsulating their journey over the nearly two-hour runtime. However, it falls short of the emotional highs of the first film.
Comparative Analysis with Previous Installments
Success of Earlier Films
Despite its strengths, “Venom: The Last Dance” does not surpass the impact of the original “Venom” (2018), which presented a well-rounded mix of action, humor, and romance, aided by Eminem's memorable soundtrack. The sequel, “Venom: Let There Be Carnage,” also had its merits, but this finale struggles to maintain the same level of engagement.
Final Thoughts
Overall, while “Venom: The Last Dance” provides a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, the absence of a climactic Knull versus Venom showdown and the weaker antagonist choices denote a missed opportunity. The first film remains the high point in this franchise.
