The Marvel anti-hero Venom has made a notable splash in the cinematic landscape since his debut film in 2018, which resonated deeply with audiences, achieving an impressive score of 80% on Rotten Tomatoes and a global box office haul of $856.1 million. This impressive feat set the stage for the sequel, *Venom: Let There Be Carnage*, released three years later, and culminated in the most recent installment, *Venom: The Last Dance*. This franchise, led by the charismatic Tom Hardy in the dual role of Eddie Brock and Venom, captured the hearts of fans with its unique blend of humor and action. Alongside Hardy, Peggy Lu’s portrayal of Mrs. Chen serves as a constant, bringing a layer of relatability and warmth to the series.
Mrs. Chen, Eddie’s local convenience store owner and friend, embodies the theme of friendship that permeates the Venom series. In *The Last Dance*, her character embarks on an adventure to Vegas, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of life. During a recent interview, Lu described Mrs. Chen as a character who speaks candidly and without filters. “She’s not a yes man; we all need a Mrs. Chen in our lives,” Lu notes, highlighting the familiarity that viewers may find in her straightforwardness. This authenticity contributes significantly to the franchise’s relatability, making the characters feel grounded amidst the chaos of superhero tales.
Lu shared her admiration for the collaborative spirit on set, particularly with co-star Tom Hardy. Their dynamic is filled with improvisation and playfulness enhances the authentic portrayal of their characters. She fondly recalls the nervousness she felt when first meeting the renowned actor, only to discover his down-to-earth personality instantly dispelled her anxiety. “Here I am going ‘Okay, I’m gonna be cool,’ and I said, who?! I am the biggest dork,” Lu joked about her initial reaction to Hardy’s friendly introduction. This camaraderie extends beyond their individual performances and translates into a rich viewing experience for audiences.
Filming in high-heeled shoes and trying to keep up with dance choreography proved to be an amusing challenge for Lu, who humorously revealed her lack of dancing skills. Collaborating with a talented choreographer like Jennifer White and a supportive dance partner helped her navigate these hurdles. She not only acknowledged the fun they shared but highlighted the patience of her colleagues, remarking, “I just got so lucky” to work with such talented individuals. This positive energy on set is palpable and translates into their performances, making the movie feel lively and engaging.
Lu also spoke of intensified admiration for Hardy’s character both on and off the set. His persona embodies a mix of professional dedication and genuine care for others. From his engagement with background actors to the little gestures like checking if everyone is alright after a cut, Hardy’s behavior inspires those around him, including Lu. She expressed how this has motivated her to be more conscious of the dynamics in her interactions. “Watching him do that got me thinking that I need to be more conscious about the people around me,” she shared, indicating how such acts of kindness can create a more harmonious work environment.
As the Venom franchise comes to a close with *The Last Dance*, it reflects on critical themes of friendship, loyalty, and levity. The delightful rapport between Hardy and Lu, enriched by their vignettes of genuine humor and camaraderie, serves as a testament to the heart that beats at the center of the chaos associated with superhero narratives. The character of Mrs. Chen remains a vital touchstone for audiences, reminding us of the importance of straightforwardness and loyalty in friendships. With each installment, the Venom films have carved out a niche that will undoubtedly resonate with fans for years to come, solidifying their place in the ever-expanding Marvel cinematic universe.