R-rated ‘Venom’ film to launch Sony’s Marvel Universe

Thanks to their partnership, Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios are sharing Spider-Man, which has paved the way for the web-head’s introduction in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But Sony still owns the cinematic rights to an entire horde of Marvel characters, one of them being Venom, the grotesque, slobbery monster who’s been both an enemy and ally to Spider-Man.

Venom’s popularity is not lost on Sony, who’s now set on developing a feature film, to be launched on October 5, 2018, centering on the character. But here’s where it gets interesting; the “Venom” film will be R-rated, and will kick-start Sony’s own Marvel Universe.

The choice to go the Restricted route is most likely the consequence of the unprecedented success of “Deadpool” and “Logan.” And, like these two outings, Sony also wants the “Venom” movie to have a more modest budget than your typical superhero flick.

We still don’t have details about the plot. Will it focus on Eddie Brock, the most well-known host of the alien Venom Symbiote? Or on Mac Gargan or Ann Weying?

Whatever the case, the fact that the studio was confident enough to announce such a specific release date is a sign the Sony execs are satisfied with the “Venom” script. Things could still change, of course, once the studio finds a director for the film.

Sadly, it’s doubtful Sony’s Marvel Universe and the Marvel Studios’ Marvel Cinematic Universe will be connected. So the Venom movie, as well as the recently announced films revolving around fellow Spider-Man characters Silver Sable and Black Cat, will likely only be a part of the Sony Marvel Universe.

Expect more news about Sony’s “Venom” film in the upcoming months. — BM, GMA News