The initial concept behind Sony's Spider-Man universe has been repeatedly proven to be flawed. As they lack the rights to the hero, they are constantly attempting to transform their more likable villains into protagonists. Venom was a logical choice, considering the character's popularity among fans with each new adaptation. However, the introduction of Kraven the Hunter brings about more questions than answers, particularly given that it is the first production in the SSU with an R-rating.
One of the challenges with anti-heroes is that their greatest strength is also their downfall. They are able to employ extreme tactics against their enemies, which is often expected of them. Typically, the target audience for edgy anti-heroes consists of angsty teenage boys. Regrettably, studios are compelled to remove a significant portion of the violence, sexual content, and profanity in order to cater to this preferred demographic and ensure ticket sales.
Kraven the Hunter Seems To Be Shooting For An R-Rating
The first trailer for Kraven brought a multitude of intriguing ideas to the attention of the fanbase. Sergei Kravinoff's quest now carries a more selfless motive, guided by his monstrous father. The trailer showcases several intense action sequences, distinguishably more brutal than what Sony has offered in the past. While the film has yet to receive an official rating, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and the crew have confirmed that it is targeting an R rating. Kraven dispatches his enemies with ruthless precision, resulting in a surprising amount of bloodshed. The snippets shown in the trailer do not align with any existing project in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but instead, they seem better suited for a lesser version of John Wick. MPAA ratings have been a sensitive issue for fans of superhero movies, as the genre has predominantly adhered to a single rating option since its inception.
Both Venom Movies Were Rated PG-13
Venom and Venom: Let There Be Carnage were both chaotic productions plagued with significant issues. However, the addition of more explicit violence would not have resolved their fundamental flaws. Nonetheless, fans expressed disappointment when they discovered that the symbiotes' actions were constrained by the film's rating. Initially, the intention was to create an R-rated Venom movie, but the studio gradually deviated from this vision. Opting for a PG-13 rating offers greater financial prospects to a studio that fears the potential failure of a film. Despite the success of R-rated superhero films like Deadpool and Logan, they have not spawned as many imitations as fans anticipated. Instead, these movies serve as consistent reminders of the missed opportunities in the genre.
The MPAA rating may not provide a true representation of a film or offer any insight into its quality. However, certain source materials naturally lend themselves to a specific level of censorship. If Logan adhered to the same guidelines as the other X-Men films, it would lose its uniqueness. Similarly, Deadpool relies on the freedom to embrace the character's signature violence and crude humor, making it distinct. Venom, known for its darker and grittier tone compared to Spider-Man, is often praised. Unfortunately, a significant portion of comic book fans tend to lean towards the most unpleasant interpretation of their favorite characters. This particular subset envisions an anonymous entity evaluating all superhero content as inherently unworthy, believing that delving into darker themes or excessively gory action sequences is the only solution. Venom embodies this impulse perfectly. He becomes everyone's favorite superhero, except stripped of vibrancy, optimism, and enjoyment. Sony, by meticulously editing their most popular character for a wider audience, showcases a sense of cowardice.
How Will An R-Rating Affect Kraven the Hunter?
In contrast to Venom, Kraven offers a lighter take on the superhero genre. The movie showcases his unique ability to connect with animals, utilizing them as formidable weapons. Alongside his exceptional physical strength and an array of traditional weapons, Kraven possesses the traits of a classic super soldier. While an R-rating is suitable for a film depicting a fiercely powerful individual mercilessly eliminating his foes, there are numerous PG-13 adaptations that explore the same concept. Rather than striving to cater to the fanbase's demand for R-rated superhero films, Kraven resembles a typical "mature" action movie with some superhero elements sprinkled in. It mirrors the essence of films like Logan or Deadpool, but the blend feels amiss. The movie appears to struggle with its association with the comic book world, reminiscent of the dark and gritty superhero movies prevalent in the early 2000s.
Kraven the Hunter has the potential to be a decent action film, complete with the usual superhero elements. However, the SSU faces a major issue in its attempt to emulate the Marvel formula and create a connected movie universe. Taking a bold step by developing a standalone R-rated action movie, unrelated to other brands, would show a willingness to adapt and improve. Although fans remain skeptical, if Kraven exceeds expectations, it could be the catalyst for a much-needed turnaround in the SSU. The Hunter has been given the freedom to roam. Perhaps he can rescue the franchise from its current state of disappointment.
