Watch Venom [With Bonus Content]
- PG-13
- 2018
- 1 hr 52 min
-
6.6 (550,487)
The movie Venom from 2018 is an action-packed science fiction film with twisted humor and a unique anti-hero. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, the movie is based on the comic book character of the same name and follows the story of Eddie Brock, a journalist who becomes a host to an alien symbiote. Tom Hardy's portrayal of the journalist Eddie Brock is a standout performance. Initially, Eddie is successful in his career and in love with his fiancée Anne Weying - played by Michelle Williams. However, after Eddie's investigation puts Anne's job in jeopardy, she breaks up with him, and Eddie's life spirals out of control. When Eddie is given a tip on the illegal activities of billionaire entrepreneur Carlton Drake - played by Riz Ahmed - he decides to pursue the story without any regard for the consequences.
Through a series of events, Eddie becomes the host to an extraterrestrial symbiote named Venom. Unlike other alien species, Venom has a conscience and needs Eddie to stay alive. Eddie struggles to control the symbiote, and they develop a love/hate relationship. As Eddie gets comfortable with Venom's powers, Carlton Drake, the CEO of the Life Foundation, becomes aware of his existence and sets out to capture both Eddie and Venom to extract their powers.
The dynamic between Eddie and Venom is the highlight of the movie. Tom Hardy's conflicted and vulnerable portrayal of Eddie complements the wild, unpredictable nature of Venom. The visually stunning symbiote transformation scenes are a spectacle to watch, and the action sequences are breathtaking.
Michelle Williams portrays Anne Weying with utmost subtlety and grace. She is a complex character who is fully aware of the venomous side to her ex-fiancé but still cares for him. Riz Ahmed's performance as Carlton Drake exudes calm and calculated menace. He is a tech genius who believes humanity's future lies in space colonization and is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.
The movie's twisted sense of humor is a welcome addition to the superhero genre, and it complements the anti-hero theme. The humor finds its way into situations where you least expect it, and it never feels forced. The banter between Eddie and Venom adds levity to the intense, action-packed scenes.
The movie is not without its flaws, though. The pacing of the first half of the movie is slow, and the relationship between Eddie and Anne feels rushed. Additionally, the secondary characters don't get enough screen time to flesh out their motivations and backstory properly.
The special effects are top-notch, and they bring the symbiotes to life in an awe-inspiring manner. The action sequences are frenetic and well-choreographed, and the camera work is inventive. The soundtrack, composed by Ludwig Göransson, is a fitting accompaniment to the action and adds to the movie's atmosphere.
The bonus content on the Blu-ray edition includes several deleted and extended scenes that add more depth to the storyline. These scenes are a welcome addition to the movie and help clarify some of the character motivations. There is also a featurette on the VFX that breaks down the intricate process of bringing the symbiotes to life.
In conclusion, Venom is an action-packed, sci-fi thriller with a unique anti-hero at its center. Tom Hardy's performance as Eddie Brock is nuanced and vulnerable, and his dynamic with Venom is electric. Michelle Williams and Riz Ahmed turn in solid performances as the supporting cast, and the twisted sense of humor adds a new dimension to the superhero genre. Despite its flaws, Venom is an enjoyable ride that is not to be missed.