Sony’s Kraven the Hunter has become the latest casualty in the studio’s attempt to expand its Spider-Man-adjacent universe, earning a dismal 14% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics describe the film as a narrative mess with poor pacing and underdeveloped characters, despite a strong lead performance from Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Many argue that its chaotic editing and lack of clear tone bury any potential the project had under director J.C. Chandor’s vision.
The film, meant to reinvent Kraven as an anti-hero, instead suffers from an identity crisis. Critics highlight its disjointed storytelling and uninspired action sequences, comparing it unfavorably to the equally criticized Morbius. The movie’s lackluster response raises further doubts about Sony’s ability to sustain its Spider-Man Universe (SSU), which has struggled to resonate with fans and critics alike. While some viewers praise isolated moments, most feel the film fails to justify its existence in an already crowded comic book landscape.
Sony faces mounting pressure to pivot its strategy, with critics and fans urging a greater focus on successes like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. If Kraven’s reception is any indication, the future of Sony’s live-action spin-offs may need significant rethinking.
