Entertainment

Venom: The Last Dance – The Rise of Knull, The King in Black

Prepare yourself for the epic conclusion of the Venom trilogy with Venom: The Last Dance, where Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Eddie Brock, a journalist entangled with the alien symbiote Venom, faces its most formidable enemy yet—Knull, the King in Black. The film’s introduction of Knull, a cosmic entity older than the universe itself, sets the stage for a gripping finale filled with intense action, suspense, and the dark origins of the symbiote race.

For comic book followers, Knull is a familiar name, synonymous with destruction and darkness. But for those new to his story, this film offers the perfect entry point to understand the true scale of the evil deity who once ruled over the symbiotes. This final chapter in the Venom saga is sure to be one of the most talked-about films of the year, and we’re here to give you everything you need to know about Knull, his history, and the role he plays in this cinematic masterpiece.

Who is Knull?

Knull is more than just a villain—he is the embodiment of darkness, an Eldritch God who predates the cosmos itself. Created long before the birth of the universe, Knull was content to exist in the endless void, ruling over a kingdom of darkness. However, the Celestials, cosmic beings responsible for creation, unknowingly awakened him when they began shaping the universe with their light. Furious that the “Light of Creation” destroyed his realm of darkness, Knull declared war on the Celestials.

Knull crafted All-Black the Necrosword, a weapon forged from his own shadow and hatred, and used it to kill the Celestials. He then created the Symbiote Hive, creatures that could be controlled telepathically, and sent them across the universe, spreading his reign of darkness.

Knull’s Connection to the Symbiotes

The symbiotes, as we’ve come to know them through Venom and Carnage, are directly tied to Knull. In fact, Knull is the original creator of the symbiote race, and his connection to them is integral to the mythology of the Venom universe. When Knull created the Symbiote Hive, he also instilled a part of his consciousness into every symbiote, allowing him to control them.

However, when Thor intercepted one of Knull’s creations on Earth, it broke the telepathic link between Knull and the symbiotes, freeing them from his control. In retaliation, the symbiotes, led by their newfound sense of autonomy, revolted against Knull. They imprisoned him on a synthetic planet made from billions of symbiotes, called Klyntar. This “planet” is actually a prison, designed to keep Knull trapped for eternity, but in Venom: The Last Dance, we see the weakening of this prison and Knull’s imminent return.

What is the Codex?

A key element in Venom: The Last Dance is the concept of the Codex. In the comic books, the Codex refers to a genetic imprint that remains within anyone who has ever bonded with a symbiote. Cletus Kasady (Carnage) discovers that by collecting these codices from other symbiote hosts, he can gather enough power to fully awaken Knull from his imprisonment in Klyntar.

In the Venom cinematic universe, Eddie Brock is revealed to retain the Codex after briefly dying in Venom: Let There Be Carnage. This makes Eddie a crucial piece in Knull’s escape from his imprisonment. As the final film progresses, Knull’s awakening hinges on Venom’s connection to the Codex, making Eddie and Venom his ultimate key to freedom.

The Role of Knull in Venom: The Last Dance

In Venom: The Last Dance, Knull is introduced right at the beginning, creating intrigue and excitement for both comic book fans and casual viewers. He is portrayed by Andy Serkis, who, despite stepping down as the director after Let There Be Carnage, returns to the franchise in this powerful role. Serkis brings his signature motion-capture brilliance to the character, giving Knull an otherworldly, menacing presence that will undoubtedly stand out as one of the highlights of the film.

Knull’s appearance is not just about one final showdown—it’s about bringing the entire symbiote saga full circle. He is the origin of all symbiotes, the true king they once served. As the film unfolds, viewers will see Knull’s terrifying powers as he controls alien species like the Xenophage, hunting Venom and Eddie across the universe.

Who Plays Knull?

Fans of Venom will be thrilled to know that Andy Serkis plays the role of Knull in Venom: The Last Dance. Known for his exceptional work in motion-capture performances as Gollum in The Lord of the Rings and Caesar in Planet of the Apes, Serkis was the perfect choice to bring the dark, ominous presence of Knull to life. His portrayal is expected to add a new level of depth to the Venom universe, blending his expertise in creating monstrous yet emotionally complex characters.

The Final Battle and What’s Next

With Knull freed from his prison, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Eddie Brock and Venom. They face off against the dark god in a battle that could determine the fate of the symbiote race and potentially the universe itself. The final film in the Venom trilogy promises to deliver high-octane action and emotional depth, as Eddie and Venom grapple with their shared fate.

While Venom: The Last Dance is set to be Tom Hardy’s final outing as Eddie Brock, the introduction of Knull leaves the door open for potential future stories within the Marvel universe. Whether Knull will make appearances in other Marvel projects remains to be seen, but his impact on the Venom storyline is undeniable.

When and Where to Watch

Mark your calendars—Venom: The Last Dance hits theaters on October 25, 2024. As the concluding chapter of the Venom trilogy, this film is bound to captivate audiences with its dark, thrilling storyline and the explosive final showdown between Venom and Knull.

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Entertainment

All the Upcoming Star Wars Movies and Shows

The Star Wars galaxy is entering a thrilling new chapter, with a robust line-up of movies and shows set to arrive over the next five years. Whether it’s returning favourites, fresh faces, or untold stories from different points in the timeline, there’s something for every fan to look forward to. The upcoming Star Wars movies and shows look exciting!

The Mandalorian & Grogu (May 22, 2026)

Scheduled to hit cinemas on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu will be the first Star Wars theatrical release since The Rise of Skywalker. Jon Favreau is directing this instalment, which is anticipated to bring the beloved duo of Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) and Grogu (also known as “Baby Yoda”) back for a high-stakes adventure on the big screen.

This film is expected to carry forward the themes and characters from The Mandalorian series, providing fans with a grand-scale continuation of the saga’s post-Empire narrative. With Grogu’s mysterious powers and Din’s steadfast presence, this promises to be a major highlight for Star Wars in cinemas.

Ahsoka Season 2

After a successful first season, Ahsoka Tano, played by Rosario Dawson, is set to return in Ahsoka Season 2 on Disney+. Created by Star Wars storyteller Dave Filoni, the show will delve deeper into Ahsoka’s journey as she navigates the galaxy and encounters characters from across the Star Wars timeline. Ahsoka’s connection to Anakin Skywalker and her storied past with the Jedi Order makes this an essential watch for those invested in the saga’s rich lore.

While a specific release date has yet to be confirmed, fans can expect continued exploration of the mysterious “World Between Worlds,” as well as potential ties to other Disney+ series set in the same timeline.

Untitled Rey Skywalker Movie

Star Wars heroine Rey Skywalker is set to return in an untitled movie directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, known for her Oscar-winning documentaries. Set 15 years after The Rise of Skywalker, this film will follow Rey as she takes on the monumental task of rebuilding the Jedi Order.

Daisy Ridley reprises her role as Rey, now a Jedi Master, leading this new journey into uncharted territory. With Rey’s complex relationship with the Force and the Skywalker legacy, this film promises to deepen the lore of the Jedi and provide a fresh perspective on the future of the galaxy.

Dawn of the Jedi

Directed by James Mangold, Dawn of the Jedi will explore the earliest days of the Jedi Order, set roughly 25,000 years before the events of the Skywalker Saga. This film aims to uncover the origins of the Jedi and the Force itself, giving fans a unique glimpse into the ancient foundations of the Star Wars universe.

With Mangold at the helm, known for his work on Logan and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, audiences can expect a character-driven, mythological exploration of what it truly means to wield the Force. This journey into the distant past will showcase aspects of the galaxy that have only been hinted at in previous stories.

The Mandoverse Movie

Dave Filoni, a seasoned creative in the Star Wars franchise, is set to direct a crossover movie uniting characters and storylines from The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and The Book of Boba Fett. This ambitious project is expected to deliver a thrilling convergence of narratives as it brings together beloved characters and epic story arcs, mirroring the crossover style of Marvel’s Avengers.

While details remain under wraps, this movie is highly anticipated, as it promises to culminate many of the interconnected storylines that have been building in the Disney+ series, offering fans a cinematic spectacle of battles and alliances across the galaxy.

Taika Waititi’s Untitled Star Wars Film

Celebrated for his unique storytelling style, Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi is bringing his creative flair to a still-untitled Star Wars film. Waititi’s project is expected to provide a fresh take on the Star Wars universe, with his signature humour and bold direction shaping this new addition to the franchise.

With no release date confirmed, this movie remains shrouded in mystery, but fans can expect an inventive and original story from Waititi that explores different corners of the galaxy, possibly introducing new planets and characters with his trademark humour and heart.

From nostalgic returns to bold new stories, the upcoming Star Wars projects reveal Lucasfilm’s commitment to expanding the galaxy with rich storytelling and imaginative settings. With an array of new films and shows on the horizon, the next five years in Star Wars are sure to capture the hearts of audiences old and new.

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Entertainment

‘Waltzing With Brando’: Billy Zane’s Transformation Into Marlon Brando

The first trailer for the anticipated biopic Waltzing With Brando has been released, giving viewers an early look at Billy Zane’s remarkable transformation into legendary actor Marlon Brando. This film explores Brando’s life and vision between 1969 and 1974—a defining period that saw him preparing for roles in The Godfather and Last Tango in Paris. Directed by Bill Fishman and adapted from architect Bernard Judge’s memoir, Waltzing With Brando reveals a side of Brando the public has rarely seen, showcasing his desire for a sustainable, private sanctuary away from Hollywood.

The Story Behind the Biopic

Based on Judge’s book Waltzing With Brando: Planning a Paradise in Tahiti, the film follows the Los Angeles-based architect’s journey in working with Brando to create an eco-friendly retreat on a remote Tahitian atoll named Tetiaroa. This uninhabited island, purchased by Brando during his filming of Mutiny on the Bounty, was meant to embody an ecological haven, illustrating sustainable living through minimal environmental impact.

Waltzing With Brando takes audiences through Brando’s intense partnership with Judge (played by Napoleon Dynamite’s Jon Heder), bringing to light the complex process of bringing Brando’s unconventional dream to life. Known for his big ideas and reclusive lifestyle, Brando’s vision for Tetiaroa included creative, sometimes extreme approaches to sustainability. Judge’s daughter, reflecting on her time on the atoll, described it as a “Robinson Crusoe experience” where they had to fish for dinner, living an isolated, natural lifestyle on the island.

Billy Zane as Marlon Brando

Billy Zane’s portrayal of Brando is a performance to be reckoned with. The trailer showcases Zane fully immersing himself in Brando’s character, capturing his physical mannerisms and iconic charisma. Viewers will see Zane’s nuanced take on Brando’s intense personality, which elevates the film by making it both authentic and immersive. The trailer’s initial reception highlights Zane’s potential to bring depth to a complex figure known as much for his off-screen mystique as for his cinematic achievements.

A Strong Supporting Cast

Waltzing With Brando also features a robust cast, with Richard Dreyfuss, Camille Razat (Emily in Paris), Alaina Huffman (Smallville), Tia Carrere (Wayne’s World), and James Jagger (Vinyl). The ensemble cast supports the film’s ambitious narrative, bringing a balance of diverse talent that enriches the story and expands the film’s reach to a global audience.

A Festival Favourite with Strong Anticipation

Scheduled to premiere at prestigious festivals including the Tahoe Film Festival, Palm Springs International Film Festival, and Torino Film Festival, Waltzing With Brando is already drawing significant interest. These early showings provide a fitting launch pad for a film that delves into the personal ambitions of one of Hollywood’s most enigmatic stars. Selected as the closing night feature at several festivals, it’s evident that Waltzing With Brando has captured the attention of film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, foreshadowing a strong reception when it releases to wider audiences.

Brando’s Vision for Sustainability

Set in the breathtaking scenery of Tahiti’s Tetiaroa atoll, the film does more than depict Brando’s eccentricities; it illustrates his forward-thinking approach to sustainable living. This vision was grounded in the idea that luxury and environmental consciousness could coexist. Brando saw Tetiaroa as a sanctuary where he could escape the Hollywood limelight, immerse himself in nature, and challenge the world’s ideas of ecological responsibility. Judge, an obscure architect at the time, was handpicked to turn this vision into reality, marking a unique chapter in both men’s lives.

In a pivotal scene, Brando explores inventive ways to conserve resources, showing a deep commitment to sustainability. These aspirations align with the real-life efforts of Tetiaroa today, where environmental sustainability is a key priority in protecting the natural ecosystem and promoting eco-tourism.

Looking Ahead

Waltzing With Brando is being sold internationally by VMI Worldwide and is slated for wider release in 2025. By delving into the lesser-known aspects of Brando’s life, the film offers a fresh take on a Hollywood legend who often challenged the status quo. With Billy Zane’s portrayal of Brando, audiences can expect a compelling blend of dramatic tension, ecological themes, and Hollywood history, providing an inside look into the mind of a star determined to leave his mark far beyond the screen.

Entertainment

How John Wick Saved the Movie Studios

In a time when Hollywood seems to be struggling with fresh ideas, John Wick stands out as an unexpected playbook for creating original movie franchises. As John Wick celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s remarkable how this $25 million film about a hitman’s journey to avenge his dog managed to build a billion-dollar empire—one that Hollywood surprisingly failed to replicate. This is how John Wick saved the movie studios.

The industry continues to churn out costly, often repetitive IPs, which has led to the downfall of once surefire hits, from Marvel and DC projects to prestige films like Killers of the Flower Moon. But John Wick presented a solution for Hollywood: creating lower-budget, high-quality films with a unique premise that can grow organically. Here’s how John Wick redefined what it takes to build a profitable franchise.

A Simple Idea That Worked

In his book They Shouldn’t Have Killed His Dog, John Wick producer Basil Iwanyk explains his philosophy, “Action movies you could make for $25 million plus or minus five. It’s the most obvious thing in the world, but nobody seems to understand that.” Iwanyk’s strategy proved successful—four films later, the John Wick franchise has surpassed $1 billion in box office revenue. By keeping budgets manageable, John Wick demonstrated that modestly priced films could deliver impressive returns, offering both box-office revenue and potential for expansion through sequels and spin-offs.

However, it wasn’t just the budget that contributed to John Wick‘s success. A few crucial elements had to fall into place.

The Slump Breaker: Casting Keanu Reeves

John Wick was released when Keanu Reeves was in need of a hit. His career was in a lull, with films like 47 Ronin and The Day the Earth Stood Still failing to resonate with audiences. When John Wick came along, it was the perfect project for Reeves—a disciplined actor experienced in action roles. Basil Iwanyk recalls sending Reeves a script originally written for a 75-year-old hitman, with a note: “Clearly, you’re not 75.” This role gave Reeves the opportunity to show off his martial arts and weapons training skills, which ultimately reinvigorated his career.

The 87Eleven Method: A Frugal Approach to Production

To make John Wick within budget, the filmmakers had to cut back elsewhere. Enter Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, the film’s directors, who had backgrounds in stunt work and founded 87Eleven Action Design, an action choreography company. They had a cost-effective method: choreographing and designing complex fight scenes in a gym using pre-visualization. This approach allowed them to plan every camera angle, movement, and sequence beforehand, reducing on-set expenses. By the time filming began, the entire cast and crew knew the fight sequences inside and out, minimizing wasted time and keeping costs low.

The 87Eleven method enabled them to focus the limited budget on making every scene dynamic. With Stahelski and Leitch, John Wick established a new model for cost-efficient action films, effectively prioritizing quality over quantity.

The Visual Aesthetic: Limitations Breed Innovation

John Wick also set itself apart by embracing stylistic choices born out of necessity. The long, unbroken takes in the action sequences weren’t just a creative choice—they were a budget-friendly necessity. At the time, the production couldn’t afford multiple cameras, so Stahelski and Leitch opted for single, continuous shots that not only saved money but also became a signature style of the franchise. This creative workaround ultimately made the film’s fight scenes more visceral, a refreshing contrast to the rapid cuts typically seen in Hollywood action.

Car Chases on a Budget

The final act of John Wick features an iconic car chase that might look like a big-budget set piece, but it was actually produced on a tight budget. The team chose a single location—the Brooklyn Navy Yard—and filmed at night, saving money on securing multiple locations and permitting. Using everyday cars like Dodge Challengers and Chevy Tahoes, they avoided the expense of high-end vehicles while delivering a thrilling sequence that didn’t break the bank.

The Success Formula: Budget-Friendly with a Clear Focus

When John Wick hit theatres in 2014, it generated $86 million on its $25 million budget, a 4x return that guaranteed a follow-up. The formula was simple yet effective: prioritize action, keep the plot straightforward, and deliver everything with a stylized touch. This formula allowed the filmmakers to take the franchise forward, focusing more on creativity than financial constraints.

The Sequels: Doubling Down on Action and World-Building

With each new film, the John Wick series expanded in scope without losing sight of what made it work.

John Wick: Chapter 2: With a $40 million budget, the filmmakers introduced more sophisticated fight choreography and innovative sets, including the iconic House of Mirrors. This sequel generated $171 million, proving that audiences were still hooked.

John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum: This time, the budget jumped to $75 million, which brought the franchise’s most impressive set pieces yet, including a scene with Belgian Malinois dogs attacking villains alongside Halle Berry. The film raked in $327 million, showcasing the franchise’s continued popularity.
John Wick: Chapter 4: Boasting a $100 million budget, this film pushed the limits with an almost three-hour runtime packed with intense action scenes. The “car fu” fight sequence near the Arc de Triomphe demonstrated the franchise’s commitment to real stunts, even as CGI was sparingly used to enhance the visuals. The franchise peaked, delivering action that had grown in complexity without losing its gritty, grounded feel.

Lessons for Hollywood: Why Didn’t Anyone Follow Suit?

The John Wick series is a rare example of an original franchise succeeding in an era where reboots, sequels, and superhero films dominate. Its success shows that Hollywood can still produce profitable franchises without relying on established IPs or massive budgets. Yet, few studios have taken note.

Hollywood’s resistance to lower-budget original action films, despite John Wick’s success, could stem from the appeal of high-budget productions or the certainty that established franchises bring. However, John Wick exemplifies that well-crafted, lower-budget films with a unique vision can yield incredible returns.

The Franchise’s Influence and the Future of Action Cinema

John Wick not only sparked sequels but also influenced a wave of similar films, from Sisu to Nobody. These films emulated John Wick’s aesthetic and approach, though few replicated its success. By emphasizing choreography, stylized visuals, and character-driven storytelling, John Wick paved the way for a new era in action cinema.

If Hollywood could heed the lessons of John Wick, it might be able to navigate a landscape where audiences increasingly seek originality and high-quality storytelling. As audiences grow tired of over-budgeted, underwhelming blockbusters, John Wick reminds us that a modestly priced, carefully crafted film can achieve both critical and commercial success.

What’s Next for the John Wick Franchise?

While John Wick: Chapter 4 marked the supposed end of the titular character’s journey, the franchise’s universe is far from over. With a spin-off TV series, The Continental, and a planned film focusing on Ana de Armas’ character from Parabellum, the John Wick universe continues to expand.