Is Venom 3: The Last Dance the Worst Venom Movie?

The release of Venom 3: The Last Dance has stirred a lot of debate among fans and critics alike. As the supposed final chapter in the Venom trilogy, the film has drawn mixed reviews, and many wonder: is this the weakest entry in the series?

In 2024, Venom: The Last Dance hit cinemas as the anticipated final chapter in the Venom trilogy, directed by Kelly Marcel and starring Tom Hardy. Despite the strong fanbase built by Venom (2018) and Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021), the third instalment has received mixed reactions, with some critics labelling it the “worst of the trilogy.” Yet, Venom fans may find that the movie still offers a few redeeming elements, especially for those invested in Eddie Brock and his complex, often humorous relationship with the alien symbiote.

This review will cover everything you need to know about Venom: The Last Dance — from its release date and plot highlights to fan and critic reactions. We’ll examine why it’s been divisive, explore the long-tail appeal, and look at whether it’s a fitting farewell for the character.

VENOM 3 Release and Background

Venom: The Last Dance released in October 2024, aiming to conclude Eddie Brock’s journey alongside Venom, the fan-favourite symbiote. Directed by Kelly Marcel, who previously worked on the screenplay, this entry brings back Tom Hardy as both Brock and the voice of Venom. Marcel’s direction and Hardy’s eccentric portrayal were intended to elevate this film into an unforgettable send-off, though opinions are divided on whether they succeeded.

For those wondering if Venom 3 is worth a cinema trip, it’s important to know that critics have noted a scattered tone, with Vulture mentioning it “feels as if it’s bad on purpose,” which has left some fans disappointed. However, its strong box office opening in the U.S. ($51 million) signals that die-hard fans are still showing up for this character.

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Plot Summary and Key Highlights

In Venom: The Last Dance, Eddie Brock grapples with the consequences of merging his life with the symbiote. The stakes are higher than before, with a villain said to rival Carnage, pushing Venom and Eddie into their most intense struggle yet. There’s also a post-credits scene that has fans buzzing, potentially linking the Venom universe to a wider Marvel storyline — a touch that could satisfy those looking for more integration with Marvel’s Spider-Verse.

While some reviewers found the film’s worldbuilding overly complex, fans who enjoy high stakes and cosmic threats may find that this ambitious take on the Venom saga adds an intriguing, albeit chaotic, layer to the character’s story.

“The lack of coherent stakes matters less than the general feeling that the movie is bad on purpose, in addition to being bad accidentally,” says Vulture.

Why Venom 3 Misses the Mark

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Many critics have voiced strong opinions about Venom: The Last Dance, with Screen Rant providing a detailed analysis of the film’s negative reviews. They argue that the third instalment loses the lower-stakes charm that initially made Eddie and Venom’s dynamic so engaging. For example, the film swings between comedic and serious tones, which Screen Rant claims undercuts both the humour and drama, resulting in a flat, disjointed experience.

Other reviews, including those from Forbes, have highlighted that audiences were let down by the diminished focus on Eddie’s personal story. Instead, Venom 3 dives into heavy worldbuilding that lacks sufficient development and context, diminishing the impact of the final fight scene, which critics have described as “anticlimactic.”

Audience Reactions: Fans’ Love for Venom Persists

Despite mixed reviews, die-hard Venom fans appear to be more forgiving, with some enjoying the unique, dark humour that remains present in The Last Dance. The loveable odd-couple dynamic between Eddie and Venom retains its appeal, and Tom Hardy’s chemistry with the character makes it a memorable performance, even if the storyline itself wavers.

Some fans have shared their thoughts on social media, expressing that Venom: The Last Dance may not live up to its predecessors but remains a must-watch for those dedicated to seeing Eddie and Venom’s story through to the end.

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Will This Be Venom’s Last Appearance?

Given the title and marketing, fans have speculated whether The Last Dance truly marks the end of Venom’s cinematic journey. While no official statements confirm a fourth film, Tom Hardy and Kelly Marcel have suggested that this instalment could indeed be the curtain call for Eddie Brock. However, considering Venom’s popularity and the ever-expanding Marvel Universe, a comeback isn’t out of the question.

Should You Watch Venom: The Last Dance in Cinemas?

For those on the fence, it’s worth noting that Venom 3 offers a theatrical experience packed with action, visual effects, and Hardy’s energetic performance, which IGN highlights as a significant draw despite the film’s flaws. Casual viewers may find it worth a cinema visit if only to witness the latest Marvel spectacle, while ardent fans might appreciate the storyline’s final twists.

“Very, very bad. But…this is Venom. And people love Venom,” states Forbes, noting that Venom fans’ loyalty often outweighs the critical reviews.

An Unforgettable, Flawed Farewell

Venom: The Last Dance may not be a critical darling, but for those who have followed Eddie and Venom’s wild journey, it remains an essential watch. The film doesn’t always deliver on plot, and its attempt to blend humour and darker themes leaves it feeling unfocused. But if you’re a fan of Hardy’s Venom or are intrigued by the Marvel multiverse, this final chapter is worth checking out for its audacious ambition and energetic performances.