Continuing on from Venom (2018), Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) is a host for the alien symbiote known as Venom. In the present day, Eddie is determined to get his life back on track. Right now, he’s known for being a failed reporter, currently single and struggling to adapt to a new life with Venom. Eddie and Venom are also struggling to get along, continually arguing and disagreeing, especially regarding their current living arrangements and lifestyle.
When Eddie accepts the invitation to interview and question a well-known serial killer named Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson), who is currently behind bars, he hopes he will get the latest scoop and start getting his life back to normal. Cletus enjoys having discussions with Eddie claiming that they have some connection and bond. But soon, Cletus becomes even more dangerous when he also becomes host to a symbiote and manages to escape from being locked up. The symbiote he carries is something unlike anything the world has ever seen, and it’s named Carnage.
Fans of the original 2018 feature will certainly enjoy this film, and I’m proud to say this is a worthy sequel and extension of the characters many loved. I enjoyed seeing Eddie living a disappointing life with hopes of trying to get everything back on track again. Eddie and Venom’s banter and continual arguments are also a highlight here, and these moments deliver an increased level of random humour and comedy throughout the film. The film also introduces new characters and backstories that helped my level of investment.
Visually, I found this film pleasing. Those excited to see Carnage’s introduction to the franchise should be happy with the general look and the CGI effects. For the most part, action scenes are highly pleasing as most battles consist of CGI monsters with fast-paced action. For those who are not aware, this film was directed by Andy Serkis, who is no stranger to working with visual effects, voice-overs, and CGI. I felt that having this director on board behind the camera strongly improved the visual aspects compared to the previous instalment.
The audio track was a blast, especially when it comes to sound effects and the voice work of Venom once again. However, the selection of soundtrack songs wasn’t overly impressive or fitting during key moments. Pacing is another positive aspect here. As a sequel, this film moves fast and has a short runtime. Most scenes are exciting to watch, with only a couple of scenes that either overstay their welcome or consisted of comedic moments that didn’t quite gain a solid laugh. Still, I did enjoy that the film truly aimed to be crazier, more fun, and certainly more brainless.
Overall, fans of the previous film will certainly have a blast with this new instalment. It’s more comedic, wild, and entertaining as a sequel, and thankfully, the film develops its story and introduces new characters with fun backstories. CGI and visuals are great, and Venom’s voice work is also quite pleasing. For the most part, the pacing is great, with only a couple of scenes that either overstayed their welcome or were moments of comedy that didn’t quite gain the big laughs intended. Either way, this is a quick, fun, and brainless film that I certainly enjoyed more than the previous instalment, and I would love to see these characters return.
6.4/10
20th November 2021
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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