The Ultimate Kraven Story: A Perfect Movie Adaptation That Marvel is Aware Of

Following the conclusion of the Venom trilogy and the upcoming Madame Web film, Marvel is now shifting focus to Kraven the Hunter. While the immediate success and potential for a sequel remain uncertain, an intriguing opportunity for a follow-up movie is evident. If Kraven is set to become a recurring character in the Marvel universe, the franchise has ample material to draw from, particularly an acclaimed storyline that has captured the attention of both fans and cast members alike.

In a recent discussion with Esquire, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who portrays Kraven, shared insights about his various projects, including a vodka advertisement and his role in the forthcoming Nosferatu film. Among these, his comments regarding a possible sequel to Kraven the Hunter sparked particular interest:

Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Kraven the Hunter looking to one side

Though the likelihood of a sequel is still up in the air, Marvel could seamlessly adapt one of its most iconic narratives: Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt, crafted by J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Zeck, for the silver screen.

Why Kraven’s Darkest Story Would Be an Ideal Marvel Adaptation

A Landmark Crossover: Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt

Comic book art: Kraven hunting Spider-Man in Kraven's Last Hunt.

Initial plot points for Kraven the Hunter hint at a storyline revolving around the titular character pursuing the globe’s most notorious criminals. Given Sony’s ongoing challenges with integrating Spider-Man into these spin-offs, this narrative offers a promising avenue to effectively utilize Kraven’s character. Should the film achieve commercial success, a sequel is feasible, and even Johnson is eager to delve into the potential adaptation of Kraven’s Last Hunt:

There’s a brilliant comic book [series] called Kraven’s Last Hunt. It’s quite a shocking comic book to have come out at the time [1987]. He basically battles with depression. Nothing’s good enough, right? And I’m fascinated by that. I would love to explore that.

Integrating Spider-Man would elevate the film to extraordinary heights, igniting excitement among fans.

The narrative of Kraven’s Last Hunt centers around three pivotal characters: Spider-Man, Kraven, and Vermin. Contrary to what some may think, it is Kraven who undeniably takes center stage throughout this emotionally charged tale. As Johnson highlights, Kraven grapples with profound depression, revealing a longing for honor and an understanding that contentment has always eluded him. In a moment of desperation, he embarks on one final hunt to prove his supremacy over Spider-Man.

During this harrowing period, Kraven assumes Spider-Man’s identity, taking on crime in Peter Parker’s stead. The stakes are high in this story, marking a culmination of their ongoing rivalry. Intent on proving his superiority, Kraven hunts down Spider-Man, ultimately defeating him in a brutal combat. He subdues Peter by administering drugs and locks him away for two weeks, donning Spidey’s costume in the meantime to beat Vermin—a foe Spider-Man had previously struggled against. Kraven’s triumph becomes a dubious badge of honor, as he then challenges Spider-Man to battle Vermin anew—this time with Peter emerging as the loser.

Kraven’s Ultimatum: Proving He Is the Superior Spider-Man

The Ultimate Test: Kraven’s Superiority

Comic book page: Kraven the Hunter Defeats Spider-Man And Wears His Suit

Kraven’s final confrontation culminates with his release of Vermin in New York, allowing Spider-Man to pursue him. Although Spider-Man vows to capture Kraven, the latter makes a haunting promise: his hunting days are over. In a pivotal moment, Kraven confesses his crimes to the Daily Bugle after having spent weeks in Peter’s shoes, reflecting on his newfound sense of contentment–a stark contrast to his previous despair. Ultimately, he meets his tragic end, taking his own life with an unsettling sense of peace.

While an exact adaptation of Kraven’s Last Hunt may be unlikely, the profound themes of the storyline resonate strongly with audiences. Hailed as one of the greatest Kraven tales ever penned, this narrative has been so influential that it was loosely referenced in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, released earlier this year. If Sony proceeds with a sequel for Kraven’s film, transforming this legendary comic storyline into a cinematic experience seems a natural progression. Including Tom Holland’s Spider-Man would introduce an unparalleled testing ground for the character, laying the groundwork for a storyline rich in emotional complexity.

The Urge for a Kraven-Spider-Man Encounter

An Audience Eager for Kraven’s Last Hunt

Spider-Man, portrayed by Holland, currently exists in isolation, lacking companionship beyond his superhero identity. The idea of facing a formidable adversary like Kraven, who seeks to challenge and even usurp his role, could create an intense and gripping narrative. Kraven’s motivations, rooted in a desire to establish himself as Spider-Man’s superior, only amplify the intensity of their potential clash.

Given that Johnson’s Kraven the Hunter is already set on a perilous path to eradicate the world’s most notorious criminals, shifting his focus to embodying an unsettling version of Spider-Man would pave the way for an engaging sequel that Marvel must explore. The story’s depth and character complexities are ripe for development, ensuring both characters are further fleshed out on-screen.

Spider-Man: Kraven’s Last Hunt is available now from Marvel Comics!

Source: Esquire

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