October 19, 2024: Sony Pictures made a significant impact at this year’s New York Comic Con (NYCC) by unveiling exclusive footage and trailers for some of its most anticipated upcoming films, including “Karate Kid: Legends,” “Kraven the Hunter,” and “Venom: The Last Dance.”
Fans were treated to new content that set the tone for what promises to be an action-packed 2024 and 2025.
Karate Kid: Legends (May 30, 2025)
One of the biggest highlights was the trailer for “Karate Kid: Legends,” which unites different generations of the Karate Kid saga. In a nostalgic yet fresh twist, Ralph Macchio returns as Daniel LaRusso alongside Jackie Chan, reprising his role as Mr. Han from the 2010 reboot. The film will connect the various iterations of the Karate Kid franchise, blending old and new.
The trailer kicks off in a martial arts academy where Mr. Han recruits a young fighter, played by Ben Wang. Fans also saw glimpses of Macchio and a touching portrait of Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi. The action then shifts to New York City, featuring intense subway confrontations. Chan’s voiceover delivers a thought-provoking line: “In life, you only have one question: Is it worth fighting for or not?”
The trailer suggests a compelling mix of action, heartfelt moments, and a new legacy for the Karate Kid franchise.
Kraven the Hunter (December 13, 2024)
In another major reveal, Aaron Taylor-Johnson appeared on stage to discuss his role as Kraven in “Kraven the Hunter.” Slated for release on December 13, 2024, the film takes a deep dive into the darker side of the Marvel universe. Sony showed an exclusive seven-minute clip, opening in a Russian prison, where Kraven makes a dramatic entrance, brutally taking down a mob boss, setting the gritty tone for the film.
Director J.C. Chandor described the movie as a “character study” combined with grindhouse-style intensity. Taylor-Johnson emphasized Kraven’s realism, stating that he is “not a visual effects monster, but a man who has chosen to be a hunter.” The film will also explore Kraven’s troubled relationship with his father, highlighting the anti-hero’s moral complexity and quest for vengeance.
Venom: The Last Dance
To close out the panel, Sony offered a sneak peek at “Venom: The Last Dance,” with Tom Hardy and director Kelly Marcel in attendance. Hardy expressed mixed emotions about this film being his last as the titular anti-hero, Eddie Brock/Venom, calling it “sad to see him go.” The movie picks up where the previous installment left off, following Eddie and Venom as fugitives.
Marcel confirmed that while this film may wrap up Hardy’s journey as Venom, there are still opportunities for future stories in the Venom universe. Hardy added to the excitement by humorously stating his desire to fight Spider-Man, sparking speculation about potential future crossovers.
Sony’s showcase at NYCC has left fans eagerly awaiting 2024 and 2025, with an exciting mix of action, nostalgia, and complex characters from Karate Kid: Legends, Kraven the Hunter, and Venom: The Last Dance. These releases promise thrilling experiences, continuing Sony’s tradition of delivering engaging and boundary-pushing content in both the Marvel and cinematic universes.
