My quick rating - 6.5/10. The Venom franchise takes its final bow with The Last Dance, a high-stakes conclusion to Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) and Venom's chaotic partnership. This installment, while not without its flaws, marks an improvement over its predecessor, delivering a bittersweet farewell that blends humor, action, and emotional stakes. The film finds Eddie and Venom on the run, hunted relentlessly by forces from both Earth and beyond. As the walls close in, the duo faces an impossible choice that pushes their bond to the breaking point. It’s a somber yet fitting end to their story, driven by a narrative that isn’t afraid to raise the stakes and embrace the inevitable. For fans of the comics, the introduction of Knull—who refers to himself as King in Black after the credits—is a highlight. His presence hints at an ambitious expansion of the storyline, with potential ripple effects that could tie into the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe. Having read the King in Black saga, I'm excited to see the seeds of that storyline planted here. Visually, these flix continue to impress. The symbiote effects remain top-notch, delivering chaotic, fluid action sequences that capture the essence of Venom's powers. Tom Hardy once again brings his A-game, both as Eddie Brock and the voice of Venom, balancing the film’s darker tones with laugh-out-loud humor. One standout moment is a joke referencing Hardy’s real-life status as a fan-favorite heartthrob, where Venom teases Eddie about past involvement in "sexiest man" contests. It’s self-aware humor like this that keeps the film grounded amid its darker themes. While the movie is a step up from the previous sequel, it still struggles with pacing and a somewhat overloaded plot. Knull’s arc, though intriguing, feels underdeveloped, leaving you wanting more. However, the chemistry between Eddie and Venom, the sharp humor, and the satisfying sense of closure make this a worthy finale. It delivers on its promise of a dramatic and entertaining send-off. It’s not perfect, but for fans of the anti-hero and his wisecracking symbiote, it’s a dance worth watching.
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