Venom: Let There Be Carnage

Directed by Andy Serkis, Venom: Let There Be Carnage is the long-awaited sequel to 2018’s Venom, which firmly established Sony’s very own universe of Marvel characters. Reprising his role as the titular anti-hero, Tom Hardy returns to deliver yet another impressive performance in this 2021 blockbuster hit. As well as being the face of Eddie Brock, an investigative journalist, Hardy continues to provide the voice for Venom, our protagonist's symbiotic alter ego that occasionally takes control of Brock's body for his own purpose. Woody Harrelson, Michelle Williams, and Reid Scott round out the principal cast, delivering equally compelling performances.

Set in San Francisco, the story delves deeper into the complicated relationship between Eddie Brock and his alien symbiote, Venom. The film succeeds in delivering a fascinating exploration into this complex entity - creatures from different worlds, bound together, grappling for control, and holding a reluctant, sometimes absurd camaraderie. Andy Serkis leans into the comic absurdity of their cohabitation, providing audience loads of dark humor and chaotic action sequences.

While dealing with his interior persona, Eddie Brock's investigative journalist duties force him into confrontation with convicted serial killer, Cletus Kasady, played by Woody Harrelson. What starts as an opportunity for Brock to help close cold cases quickly turns sinister, as Kasady becomes host to an extraordinarily powerful symbiote of his own – Carnage. It is threatening and unhinged, charmingly menacing - a stark contrast to Venom in every possible way. Harrelson embraces the over-the-top character with gleeful exuberance, delivering a performance that is at turns terrifying and hilarious.

Meanwhile, Michelle Williams returns as Anne Weying, Eddie's ex-fiancée, who continues to be pulled into his life's chaos, in part thanks to her own connection with Venom. She stands her ground amid the symbiote madness, acting as Eddie's moral compass and occasional reality check. Her subtle yet strong performance balances the film's high energy.

Reid Scott returns in his role as Dan Lewis, Anne’s new beau. It’s a character who could easily be one-note, but Scott brings an affable charm to Dan, making him a worthwhile addition to the central quartet.

Under Serkis' precise direction, the plot is laced with electrifying action sequences and dynamic visual effects that do not disappoint. The symbiote transformations are spectacular to watch unfold, each one more impressive than the last. The fight choreography involving symbiotes showcases Serkis’s ability to seamlessly blend explosive action and intricate CGI, resulting in thrilling scenes that encapsulate the essence of these characters.

However, it isn’t all about the punches and kicks. The film has its heart in the right place and highlights the poignant themes of identity, sacrifice, and friendship. The narrative weaves around the dual themes of accepting one's monstrous side and exploring the thin line between symbiosis and parasitism in relationships.

There's a lot to love in the sequel's more in-depth look at the relationship between Brock and Venom. Despite the constant internal wrestling, the mutual dependency between these two evolves to exhibit unexpected moments of vulnerability and forgiveness.

Composer Marco Beltrami's musical score is a prominent player in the movie, heightening the emotional intensity of several scenes. The visuals of San Francisco, captured brilliantly by the cinematographer Robert Richardson, provide the perfect backdrop to the battle between the symbiotes.

Venom: Let There Be Carnage is striking for its brand of humor, interspersed with thrilling action sequences. However, it is equally engrossing in its exploration of the characters, especially the complex anti-hero at its center. Fans of the first movie, as well as newcomers to the Venom universe, will find this film a rewarding watch. Whether you’re seeking over-the-top symbiote slugfests or a surprisingly poignant exploration of what it means to embrace one’s inner monster, you’ll find it within this audacious sequel that isn't afraid to lean into its eccentricities while respecting its source material.