The first trailer for the long awaited sequel to 2018’s box office success Venom has finally been revealed. Showcasing a number of brilliant moments, such as the dynamic between Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) and Venom and the reveal of Woody Harrelson’s much anticipated portrayal of Cletus Kasady aka Carnage.
There was a lot of comic book goodness in the trailer, however one quick shot of footage may be a major clue to the future of the franchise in the larger scope of the Marvel universe. This shot seemingly references the existence of the Avengers in Sony’s Venom universe, as well as a connection to one of the most beloved portrayals of Spider-Man.
Spider-Man Connection
The shot in question is brief and features Detective Patrick Mulligan (who becomes Toxin in the comics), who is reading a copy of the Daily Bugle. While having the Daily Bugle alone exist in this universe is a nice nod to the Spider-Man mythos, the logo displayed on the front page is pulled straight from the Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy.
While fans are aware that it is impossible for Raimi’s films to exist in the same universe as Venom, due to Topher Grace’s portrayal of Eddie Brock existing in that universe, the use of the logo is still an exciting connection the the trilogy of films that helped start the success of superheroes on the big screen. Sony’s Morbius film also featured a similar connection to Raimi’s Spider-Man, by having a poster of Spider-Man plastered on a wall with the word “murderer” spray painted over it, suggesting a connection to Holland’s Spider-Man from Far From Home.
This could lead to the characters from Venom’s universe crossing over into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with recent comments from director Andy Serkis adding fuel to the fire. However, Serkis’ comments also suggest that fans shouldn’t get their hopes high if they want to see Spider-Man appear in the sequel.
Avengers/Marvel Connections
Spider-Man is not the only character who is referenced in the shot of Detective Mulligan. While a story about Kasady appears on the front page, Mulligan turns the page to reveal a headline that looks like it is referencing the famous superhero group. As we all know, the Avengers are Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and features a roster of some of the best superheroes in the Marvel Universe.
While this could simply be another easter egg to the Marvel Comics, much like Venom straightening up a magazine that features Stan Lee on the cover, fans are highly speculating that the nods in the trailer could lead to the Venom films actually taking place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (as first rumoured since the release of the first film). Serkis has commented that they are treating the film like it takes place in its own world, however that does not close the door for crossovers in the future.
Venom: Let There Be Carnage is set to release in theatres on September 24th, 2021.
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