Please note this review has slight spoilers for the film.
Tom Hardy (The Dark Knight, Mad Max: Fury Road, The Bikeriders) returns to his iconic role as Eddie Brock in the highly anticipated third and final chapter of the Venom film series. Titled Venom: The Last Dance, this latest instalment is helmed by Kelly Marcel, who co-wrote the story with Hardy. In addition to his starring role, Hardy also serves as a producer, further cementing his deep involvement in the franchise.
As the fifth entry in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU), The Last Dance continues the fast-paced, chaotic energy of its predecessors, while also pushing the boundaries of what fans have come to expect from the franchise. The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, with British actors such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, and Stephen Graham bringing both gravitas and tons of fun to this last outing.
The plot picks up after the events of Venom: Let There Be Carnage, with Eddie Brock and Venom on the run from both human and alien forces.
One of the most exciting developments in The Last Dance is the introduction of new symbiotes, broadening the lore of the SSU. Juno Temple’s character, Dr. Teddy Payne, who transforms into the villainous symbiote Agony, is a standout addition here. Chiwetel Ejiofor, as Rex Strickland, brings a complex and morally ambiguous dimension to the proceedings, hinting at future conflicts within the SSU. Elsewhere, Rhys Ifans delivers a hilarious turn as as Martin, a hippie, alien enthusiast.
Kelly Marcel’s direction infuses the film with a lively, often chaotic tone, perfectly in line with the unpredictable nature of Venom himself. This film leans more heavily into dark humour than its predecessors, making the banter between Eddie and Venom one of the film’s strongest assets.
Granted, some moments border on the very silly, with certain comedic sequences— a surreal stop at a Vegas casino is both ridiculous and hilariously funny. But despite its occasional silliness, the film remains engaging, constantly throwing unexpected plot twists and wild action set pieces.
The performances across the board are top-notch, with each newcomer bringing something unique to the table. Hardy, as always, shines in his dual portrayal of Eddie and Venom, showcasing his ability to juggle intense action with comedic timing.
In terms of action, Venom: The Last Dance does not disappoint. The road-trip structure allows for a variety of settings and high-octane sequences, each more outrageous than the last.
Ultimately, Venom: The Last Dance is a highly entertaining conclusion to Eddie Brock’s story. It offers a satisfying blend of thrills, humour, and emotion. While it doesn’t reinvent the superhero genre, it leans fully into what makes Venom unique: a wild, chaotic energy that refuses to play by the rules.
