“Venom: Let There Be Carnage” is the sequel to 2018โs “Venom.” While interviewing convicted serial killer Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson), Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) accidently unleashes another symbiote; the murderous Carnage.
Pro โ Fun
“Venom: Let There Be Carnage” (“Venom”) is a fun trip to the movies, replete with stars, action, and over the top CGI special effects. “Venom” is a popcorn movie through and through. It feels like part “Odd Couple” and part “Avengers,” which is a much more entertaining mash-up than it may sound. Still down on his luck reporter, Eddie Brock, and his alien symbiote, Venom, begin to experience the troubles that all long-term relationships do. Neither seems to appreciate what the other brings to the table, and soon the pair โsplit-up.โ This doesnโt occur until after they accidently spawn a homicidal, over-powered red version of Venom called Carnage. How exactly this occurs is totally glossed over, and it should be noted that this film canโt even spell Shakespeare, let alone imitate it.
“Venom” is surface level, but at that level, it is really fun. The dialogue is funny at times, and while not every joke lands, the interaction between Brock and “Venom” is often quite enjoyable. The action is predictably boisterous, over-the-top, and destructive. “Venom” proudly is what it sets out to be.
Pro โ Talent
The cast of “Venom” is really strong. Tom Hardy is never afraid to take chances, and while his Eddie Brock still feels written a degree too dumb, his natural charisma and willingness to lean completely into the role is great. He is a perfect straight man to the CGI venom, whose voice is also Tom Hardy. Personal dislike aside, Woody Harrelson is a great actor and really has a knack for playing seedy, unstable characters. He is completely believable as Cletus Kasady, which is impressive and scary. Naomie Harris is a total standout as Kasadyโs love interest, Francis Barrison aka Shriek. Sheโs really, really good in the limited time she gets on screen.
Con โ Opportunity Costs
To be clear; “Venom” is goofy and weird. Itโs full of outlandish CGI, and itโs got a story with more holes than a bowling alley. Itโs enjoyable for what it is, but it never comes close to elevating above what it is โ namely, disposable pop entertainment. The biggest issue with “Venom” though is what it represents rather than what it is. 15 years ago, it would have been unthinkable for a story as niche and weird as “Venom” to get made, let alone to be given a sequel. In 2021, itโs commonplace. While that might seem cool, the reality is in Hollywood everything involves opportunity cost. One can not help but wonder, what kind of interesting and unique stories could have been brought to life for “Venomโs: $110 million budget? That isnโt this filmโs fault, but it does serve as the sign that it might be time to trade at least a few CGI super-slugfests for some stories with a bit more plot and freshness.
“Venom: Let There Be Carnage” is exactly what it says on the tin. If you thought the first one was fun and enjoyable, you will find more to like here. If youโve never heard of the first one, or have bad memories of suffering through it, this isnโt the film for you. Clamber down to the Fridley Palms Theatre this weekend and check this rom-com with teeth out.
