KID’S TAKE ON MOVIES

Venom is a somewhat entertaining comic book-based movie. Fans of superhero films may want to check it out. The story follows former investigative and maverick journalist Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) after he attempts a comeback following a scandal that left him jobless, despite good intentions. Eddie’s life furthermore takes on more complications after he accidentally becomes the host of an alien symbiote, giving him a carnivorous alter ego, Venom. Soon, he must rely on and master his newfound powers to protect the world from the shadowy organization he sought to destroy because of its involvement in experimenting with other symbiotes.

Brock is my favorite character, even if a few of Hardy’s deliveries come across as random because of an inconsistent script.

Also, Hardy sells the voice of Venom, delivering numerous nuances underneath the carnivorous savage.

Michelle Williams, as Anne Weying, does the best she can with an uninspired script that doesn’t do her character justice, as Anne comes across as a stereotypical love interest.

Riz Ahmed, as Carlton Drake, suffers from the same issue but presents just enough threat to make this foe a formidable one. Still, the plotline involving the research corporation remains one of the movie’s stalling points, as it remains nothing more than an evil lair.

Jenny Slate, as Dora Skirth, fares better. Her vibrant expressions and remarks make her one of the movie’s most memorable assets.

Ruben Fleischer aptly directs the movie with an effective grasp on understanding the Venom character, which is the movie’s saving grace.

The mix of horror, adrenaline-fueled action and black comedy provides for a unique experience, unlike any other superhero movie, despite not being as polished as most. My favorite scene is the SWAT action scene, as it is a great showcase of special effects and unique sound design. The choreography further sells the excellent pace toward Venom’s attacks.

The main flaws of the film stem from the subpar script, as it doesn’t complement the all-star cast’s talents.

Aside from Eddie, most characters are stereotypical, with stilted dialogue adding unintentional awkwardness to their relationships. At times, the movie’s plot progression becomes littered with holes and doesn’t match the brisk pace that the many action scenes provide.

The message of this movie is to always stand up for what’s right and be careful about it, in spite of anyone in your way. Eddie’s brutally honest responses to evil and the Venom alter-ego support this with a positive example.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18, because of intense action and language.