The Venom franchise has become a popular addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), captivating audiences with its blend of action, horror, and dark humor. Featuring the iconic anti-hero symbiote, Venom, the franchise has expanded with multiple films and spin-offs.
The Venom Trilogy
The core of the Venom franchise is comprised of three films:
- Venom (2018): This film introduced audiences to Eddie Brock, a journalist who bonds with the alien symbiote Venom. The film explored their complex relationship and Venom’s unique abilities, setting the stage for future installments.
- Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021): The second film in the series introduced Carnage, a more powerful and chaotic symbiote. Venom and Eddie faced their deadliest foe yet, leading to a thrilling and action-packed showdown.
- Venom 3 (TBA): The third film in the Venom franchise is currently in development. While plot details are scarce, fans can expect to see Eddie Brock and Venom return, likely facing new challenges and threats.
Venom: The Animated Series
In addition to the live-action films, the Venom franchise also includes an animated series.
- Venom (2017): This animated series follows Venom and Flash Thompson, who become hosts of the symbiote. The series explores their adventures and their battles against various villains.
Spin-Offs and Future Plans
The Venom franchise has shown potential for expansion with spin-offs and crossovers.
- Morbius (2022): While not a Venom film per se, Morbius is a spin-off that features a character from the Spider-Man universe. The post-credits scene in Morbius hinted at a possible crossover with Venom, opening up exciting possibilities for future films.
- Carnage (TBA): A spin-off film focusing on Carnage is in development. This would allow for a deeper exploration of the character and his chaotic nature.
- Toxin: Another potential spin-off could focus on Toxin, a powerful symbiote who is the offspring of Carnage. Toxin’s introduction could bring a new dynamic to the Venom universe.
- Riot: Riot, another symbiote that has bonded with a human host, could also be the subject of a spin-off film. This would allow for the exploration of a different symbiote’s perspective and abilities.
- The Hive Mind: A more ambitious spin-off could focus on the Hive Mind, a collective consciousness of symbiotes. This would introduce a new and powerful threat to the Venom universe, potentially leading to a major crossover event.
The Future of the Venom Franchise
With the success of the first two Venom films and the potential for spin-offs and crossovers, the franchise is poised for continued growth. As the MCU continues to evolve, Venom’s place within the universe is likely to become even more prominent. Fans can expect to see more thrilling adventures and exciting developments in the years to come.
Beyond the Movies
The Venom franchise has also expanded beyond the big screen.
- Comics: The Venom character has a long history in the Marvel Comics universe. The comics have explored different storylines and introduced new characters, providing a rich source of material for the films.
- Merchandise: Venom has become a popular character among collectors, leading to a wide range of merchandise, including action figures, toys, and apparel.
- Video Games: Venom has appeared in several video games, including the Spider-Man series and the Lego Marvel Super Heroes series.
The Venom Legacy
The Venom franchise has captured the imagination of audiences around the world. The character’s complex nature, combined with his powerful abilities and dark humor, has made him a fan favorite. As the franchise continues to grow, Venom’s legacy is likely to endure for many years to come.
Conclusion
The Venom franchise has established itself as a popular and exciting addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With three films, an animated series, and potential spin-offs, the franchise has plenty of room to grow. As the Venom universe expands, fans can look forward to more thrilling adventures and unforgettable characters.