In the ever-expanding universe of superhero movies, Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU) has fallen on hard times, with the recently released Madame Web failing to make an impression on critics and audiences alike. There wasn’t. After disappointing reviews and lackluster box office results, SSU’s future is in jeopardy as the studio prepares its next venture, Kraven the Hunter. But will this upcoming film be able to break the cycle of disappointment and reignite excitement among fans?
The SSU, a parallel universe to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is Sony’s attempt to create a cinematic universe centered around Spider-Man villains, independent of collaboration with Marvel Studios. But while the animated film Into the Spider-Verse has garnered praise and success, his live-action SSU has struggled to find its footing. Movies such as Morbius and now Madame Web have received scathing reviews, casting doubt on the viability of Sony’s superhero efforts.
There’s no way Sony would make a worse movie than Morbius…
Madame Web: pic.twitter.com/mk3WKCIOGu
— Austin Burke (@theBurk3nator) February 15, 2024
Well, what a waste of a great cast. The wasted potential here is actually painful. They and we deserved better. ⁰⁰#Madame Web ⁰The script, editing, VFX, and direction were all equally messy and overall baffling. pic.twitter.com/v4WLDqzt7O
— Taylor Robinson (@finelytaylored) February 15, 2024
Madame Web’s poor response only exacerbated concerns about the direction of the SSU. Despite high expectations after the release of the first trailer, the film failed to live up to expectations, with critics panning its story and direction. Madame Web’s dismal critics score of 17% on Rotten Tomatoes mirrors that of its predecessor, Morbius, which received only a 15% rating. Neither film resonated with audiences, and Sony faces an uphill battle in rebuilding trust and enthusiasm for its superhero films.
Also read: ‘“Madame Web” review: Is it at least better than “Mobius”?
#Madame Web is the movie I just watched. Did you enjoy it? Well…honestly, this is a contradictory mess.
I was one of the few who was really excited about this movie. And in the end it left me very disappointed! Some cool moments I enjoyed. But unfortunately that’s it. pic.twitter.com/6CaJMbXZux
— Evan | PME 🎬 (@0fficialPME) February 15, 2024
The Venom movie managed to make a big splash at the box office despite receiving mixed critical reviews, but it also fell short of widespread acclaim. Venom’s critics score is a modest 30%, but its sequel, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, is slightly better at 57%. However, despite their commercial success, these films have struggled to gain respect from both critics and fans, leaving SSU’s reputation tarnished.
Well, what a waste of a great cast. The wasted potential here is actually painful. They and we deserved better. ⁰⁰#Madame Web ⁰The script, editing, VFX, and direction were all equally messy and overall baffling. pic.twitter.com/v4WLDqzt7O
— Taylor Robinson (@finelytaylored) February 15, 2024
With Kraven the Hunter set to be the next installment in Sony’s Marvel film lineup, the pressure is on for the studio to deliver a compelling and successful film. Craven, starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the title character, is the first SSU film to receive his R rating and marks a departure from its previous family-friendly vibe. The trailer showcases intense action and violence, suggesting a darker, more mature take on the superhero genre, elements that could appeal to a wider audience.
I called 3 months ago. I knew the Madame Web movie was going to be a disaster because I believed Sony would ruin everything.
There’s only one question on my mind right now. How bad could the next Kraven the Hunter movie be? pic.twitter.com/IMl5ae2slD
— Rich Prime🐻 (@sonofabear97) February 15, 2024
Additionally, Kraven’s recent prominence in pop culture, particularly as the central villain in the video game Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, could work in the film’s favor. This increased visibility for the character could lead to increased interest and anticipation among fans, boosting the film’s box office prospects.
Also read: Madame Web’s Rotten Tomatoes ratings hit rock bottom
Madame Web was a little disappointing, but not terrible, but I’m interested in this interesting world of wonders in the universe, preferably Sony
Kraven The Hunter and venom 3 have been improved #Madame Web 5/10. pic.twitter.com/AdvsN7hVx4— Manga Guy (@comicbookguy220) February 14, 2024
I want Sony to cancel the Kraven the Hunter movie.At this point they should just sell the villain back to Disney, they’re not getting a dime from Madame Web.
— Nathaniel (@thefinchyboy1) February 14, 2024
Meanwhile, Venom 3 is riding on the momentum of its predecessor’s commercial success and Tom Hardy’s charismatic performance as the titular antihero. Despite facing criticism from critics, the Venom movie has managed to attract audiences, suggesting that the level of brand loyalty may carry over into the third installment.
After watching Madame Web, I don’t believe in Kraven the Hunter at all.
zero.
— Bernardo Cisneros 🔜 SXSW (@TheMovieGeek5x5) February 15, 2024
#Madame Web This is another disappointment in Sony’s Spider-Man universe. 🤦♂️
Sony doesn’t seem to be serious about it #Spider-Man universe.
If Kraven the Hunter turns out badly, all my hope and excitement for this world will be lost. pic.twitter.com/rSuqeZJpFs— Tarshit🕸️🦇 (@tarshit_r) February 16, 2024
Despite the challenges facing SSU, there is still hope for redemption with Kraven the Hunter. With its bold approach and promising premise, the film has the potential to reignite interest in Sony’s superhero universe and pave the way for future success. But only time will tell if Kraven can overcome the shadow cast by Madame Web and Morbius and triumph over SSU orthodoxy. As fans eagerly await its release, the fate of Sony’s Marvel Universe is on the brink of revival or further disappointment.
Also read: ‘Madame Web’: Everything you need to know about the four heroines of the ‘Spider-Man’ universe