Released on October 5, 2018, Venom is a superhero action thriller based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, the movie brings a darker and edgier tone to the superhero genre. Starring Tom Hardy in the lead role, the film combines elements of action, sci-fi, and dark comedy to deliver an engaging cinematic experience. This review will help you decide whether Venom is worth your time.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
The story follows Eddie Brock, an investigative journalist whose life takes a dramatic turn after he bonds with an alien symbiote named Venom. Set in San Francisco, the movie explores how Eddie struggles to control Venom’s chaotic tendencies while uncovering a sinister corporate conspiracy led by Carlton Drake, the head of the Life Foundation. As Eddie and Venom form an uneasy alliance, they must work together to stop a threat that could endanger humanity.
What’s Good?
One of the standout aspects of Venom is Tom Hardy’s performance. He masterfully portrays Eddie Brock and provides a distinctive voice for Venom, capturing the complex relationship between the two characters. Hardy’s charisma and physicality add depth to the role, making him a compelling protagonist.
The movie’s visual effects are impressive, particularly in the scenes involving Venom’s transformations and combat sequences. The symbiote’s fluid movements and menacing appearance are brought to life with meticulous detail.
Ruben Fleischer’s direction strikes a balance between intense action and moments of dark humor. The film’s pacing ensures that there are no dull moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
The soundtrack, composed by Ludwig Göransson, enhances the movie’s atmosphere. The music adds intensity to the action scenes and complements the overall tone of the film.
Cinematography by Matthew Libatique deserves mention for its sleek and dynamic visuals. From gritty urban landscapes to high-octane chase sequences, the camera work adds to the immersive experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Tom Hardy’s Performance: A charismatic and layered portrayal of Eddie Brock and Venom.
- Visual Effects: Stunning CGI that brings Venom to life.
- Action Sequences: Well-choreographed and engaging combat scenes.
- Dark Humor: The witty banter between Eddie and Venom adds a unique touch.
Weaknesses:
- Weak Villain: Carlton Drake lacks depth and fails to be a memorable antagonist.
- Predictable Plot: The storyline follows a familiar superhero formula.
- Limited Character Development: Some supporting characters are underutilized.
- Tonal Inconsistencies: The film occasionally struggles to balance its dark themes with humor.
Target Audience
Venom will appeal to:
- Superhero Fans: Those who enjoy Marvel characters and action-packed narratives.
- Sci-Fi Enthusiasts: Viewers intrigued by alien symbiotes and futuristic themes.
- Tom Hardy Admirers: Fans of the actor will appreciate his compelling performance.
- Dark Comedy Lovers: Those who enjoy a mix of action and humor.
Families with older teenagers and viewers looking for a break from traditional superhero movies will also find Venom entertaining.
Box Office Details
The movie was made on a budget of INR 775 crores (approximately $100 million). Its worldwide box office collection stands at an impressive INR 6,200 crores (approximately $856 million), making it a massive commercial success.
Day-wise Box Office Earnings (India and Overseas)
| Day | India (INR) | Overseas (INR) | Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 7 crores | 300 crores | 307 crores |
| Day 2 | 8 crores | 250 crores | 258 crores |
| Day 3 | 10 crores | 200 crores | 210 crores |
| Day 4 | 6 crores | 180 crores | 186 crores |
| Day 5 | 5 crores | 150 crores | 155 crores |
The movie’s strong box office performance was driven by Tom Hardy’s star power, thrilling action sequences, and positive word-of-mouth. Its appeal extended beyond comic book fans, drawing in general audiences as well.
Recommendation
Venom offers a thrilling and entertaining ride for superhero and sci-fi enthusiasts. With Tom Hardy’s standout performance, impressive visuals, and dark humor, it’s a movie worth watching. If you’re looking for a superhero film with a unique twist, Venom is a solid choice.
Genres:
Science Fiction, Action
Rating:
6.8/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Tom Hardy | Eddie Brock / Venom |
| Michelle Williams | Anne Weying |
| Riz Ahmed | Carlton Drake / Riot |
| Scott Haze | Security Chief Roland Treece |
| Reid Scott | Dr. Dan Lewis |
| Jenny Slate | Dr. Dora Skirth |
| Melora Walters | Homeless Woman Maria |
| Woody Harrelson | Cletus Kasady / Carnage |
| Peggy Lu | Mrs. Chen |
| Malcolm C. Murray | Lewis Donate |
| Sope Aluko | Dr. Collins |
| Wayne Pére | Dr. Emerson |
| Michelle Lee | Malaysia EMT / Riot Host |
| Kurt Yue | Mission Control Translator |
| Chris O’Hara | Astronaut J. J. Jameson III |
| Emilio Rivera | Lobby Guard Richard |
| Amelia Young | Allie |
| Ariadne Joseph | Eddie’s TV Producer |
| Deen Brooksher | Drake Interview Guard #1 |
| David Jones | Drake Interview Guard #2 |
| Roger Yuan | Village Eel Shop Owner |
| Woon Young Park | Malaysia Village Tough #1 |
| Patrick Chundah Chu | Malaysia Village Tough #2 |
| Vickie Eng | Elderly Village Woman / Riot Host |
| Mac Brandt | Jack the Bartender |
| Nick Thune | Beardo at Bar |
| Michael Dennis Hill | Reporter on TV |
| Sam Medina | Shakedown Thug |
| Scott Deckert | Noisy Neighbor Ziggy |
| Lauren Richards | Ziggy’s Girlfriend |
| Jared Bankens | Isaac / Blue Host |
| Lucas Fleischer | Guard at Gate |
| Michael Burgess | Flight Technician |
| Diesel Madkins | Lab Security Guard |
| Otis Winston | Chasing Guard |
| Zeva DuVall | Little Girl / Riot Host |
| Selena Anduze | Bistro Manager |
| Brittany L. Smith | Bistro Hostess |
| Jordan Foster | Waiter |
| Jane McNeill | Diner #1 |
| Victor McCay | Diner #2 |
| Elizabeth Becka | Diner #3 |
| Ron Prather | Diner #4 |
| Marcia White | Diner #5 |
| Javier Vazquez Jr. | MRI Tech |
| Ellen Gerstein | Hospital Lady with Dog / Mrs. Manfredi |
| Martin Bats Bradford | Jacob / Blue Host |
| Steven Teuchert | Stoner Dude #1 |
| Al-Jaleel Knox | Stoner Dude #2 |
| Brandon Morales | Crowd Control Officer |
| Matthew Cornwell | Ops Director |
| David Fleischer | Flight Trajectory Specialist |
| DJames Jones | L. F. Security Guard |
| Angela Davis | Evacuating Scientist |
| Stan Lee | Dapper Dog Walker |
| Wade Williams | Prison Guard |
| Ron Cephas Jones | Jack |
| Christian Convery | Joey – 8 Year Old Boy (uncredited) |
| Boston Rush Freeman | Trolly Teen #1 (uncredited) |
| Shameik Moore | Miles Morales / Spider-Man (voice) (uncredited) |
| Jake Johnson | Peter Parker / Spider-Man (voice) (uncredited) |
How is Our Review?
Let us know if you liked our review of Venom through the comment box, so that we can keep creating such content for you.
