Overview: “Venom 3: The Last Dance” is one of the highly anticipated movies in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU), set to release in October 2024. Following the events of “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” and “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” the film promises to continue the chaotic and symbiotic adventures of Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) and his alter-ego, Venom.

Sony’s Spider-Man Universe and the MCU: The relationship between Sony’s SSU and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a point of intrigue for fans. The crossover moments, like Venom’s brief appearance in the MCU and Vulture’s (Michael Keaton) transition from the MCU to the SSU in “Morbius,” suggest potential for further multiverse interactions.

Key Points and Speculations:

1. Sinister Six Formation:
   • The Sinister Six, a group of Spider-Man’s most formidable foes, has long been speculated as a future project within the SSU. Characters like Venom, Morbius, Vulture, and potentially Kraven the Hunter could be candidates for this team-up.
2. Madame Web’s Role:
   • “Madame Web” (releasing in 2024) is set to introduce Peter Parker and the titular character, along with three future Spider-People. Set in the early 2000s, this film could establish characters who might become significant in the SSU’s present day, potentially influencing the events of “Venom 3.”
3. Multiverse Dynamics:
   • The multiverse concept has been a pivotal element in recent MCU and SSU films. “Venom: The Last Dance” might explore this further, potentially integrating characters from different universes or timelines, including more crossovers with the MCU.
4. Critical and Financial Stakes:
   • The performance of Sony’s 2024 releases, including “Kraven the Hunter” and “Venom: The Last Dance,” will be crucial in determining the franchise’s future direction. With mixed critical reception for recent SSU entries, the success of these films is essential for the brand’s stability and growth.
5. Plot and Character Development:
   • While specific plot details are under wraps, the film is expected to delve deeper into Eddie Brock’s relationship with Venom, their struggles, and new antagonists. The dynamic between the symbiote and its host, along with their unique brand of anti-heroism, will continue to be a central theme.

Fan Theories and Expectations:

1. Return of Cletus Kasady/Carnage:
   • Although Carnage was seemingly defeated in “Let There Be Carnage,” comic book logic often allows for surprising returns. Fans speculate that Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson) might reappear, possibly in a different form or via multiverse mechanics.
2. Introduction of Toxin:
   • The introduction of Patrick Mulligan (Stephen Graham) in the previous film hints at the emergence of Toxin, a powerful symbiote offspring of Venom. This character could play a significant role in “The Last Dance.”
3. Spider-Man Cameo:
   • A Spider-Man appearance, whether from Tom Holland’s Peter Parker or another version from the multiverse, is a popular theory. This would solidify the connection between the SSU and the broader Spider-Man lore.

Production and Creative Team:

• Director: While the director for “Venom 3” has not been officially confirmed, Ruben Fleischer (director of the first “Venom”) and Andy Serkis (director of “Let There Be Carnage”) are potential candidates.
• Writers: Kelly Marcel, who co-wrote the first two films, is expected to return, ensuring continuity in the storytelling and character development.

“Venom 3: The Last Dance” is poised to be a pivotal film in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, potentially setting the stage for future crossovers and expansions. Fans eagerly await how the movie will address the lingering questions and expand the symbiotic saga of Venom and Eddie Brock.