Tom Hardy returns as Eddie Brock, the chaotic yet endearing journalist with a gooey alien problem in Venom: The Last Dance, the third installment of a franchise that continues to lean heavily on its leading man’s charisma. For those familiar with the Venom films, this latest entry feels like a natural evolution that is messy, loud, and often absurdly fun. But whether it hits all the right notes depends on how much you’re willing to buy into its quirky formula.

Set vaguely in the Spider-Man universe but choosing to dance on its own, the story kicks off with Eddie and Venom adjusting to their unique symbiotic life. There’s a hint of existential dread and a surprising twist involving resurrection, which sets the stage for their battle against a powerful alien entity threatening Earth. While the stakes are appropriately high, the heart of the film lies in the Eddie-Venom dynamic a buddy comedy wrapped in a superhero skin.

Tom Hardy once again shines, embodying both Eddie’s exasperation and Venom’s gruff humor with ease. Their banter is the film’s most consistent joy, offering comedic relief amid the alien chaos. Director Kelly Marcel, who collaborated with Hardy on the story, understands this relationship is the franchise’s beating heart. The humor flows naturally, and the film never takes itself too seriously a refreshing trait in an era of overly self-important superhero films.

But while the leads sparkle, the supporting cast is left dimly lit. Actors like Chiwetel Ejiofor and Juno Temple, both immensely talented, are given roles that feel more like plot devices than fully realized characters. The script rushes through their arcs, prioritizing action and CGI spectacle over character depth. And while the visuals are undeniably polished—no distracting “CGI bees” here it’s hard not to wish for quieter, more human moments.
One of the film’s strengths is its accessibility. You don’t need to have seen the first two Venom films to follow the story. The narrative stands well on its own, offering just enough exposition to keep new viewers in the loop without bogging down the pace. However, for longtime fans, there’s enough continuity to reward their loyalty, though the Marvel-required cameos may leave some scratching their heads.
Thematically, Venom: The Last Dance flirts with deeper ideas sacrifice, belonging, and the complexities of sharing your life (and body) with another. But it never lingers long enough to make a lasting impression. Instead, it opts for fast-paced action, quirky humor, and enough alien mayhem to fill its runtime.

In the end, this film is undeniably Venom is messy, fun, and occasionally heartfelt. It’s not groundbreaking cinema, but it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it revels in its oddball charm, carried largely by Hardy’s performance and the chemistry between man and symbiote.

Venom: The Last Dance won’t win over those already skeptical of the franchise, but for fans or anyone seeking a lighthearted, action-packed escape, it delivers. Just don’t expect it to reinvent the superhero wheel sometimes, it’s enough to simply enjoy the ride.

Rating: 3.5/5