With the success of Venom and its sequel, fans are eagerly speculating about what’s next for the symbiote in the Spider-Man universe. One of the most intriguing directions a future Venom movie could take is adapting the “Agent Venom” storyline, where the symbiote bonds with a new host—none other than Flash Thompson. As the character becomes a key figure in the Marvel Universe, the question arises: who could play Agent Venom on the big screen? Here are some actors who could embody Flash Thompson’s journey from troubled soldier to government agent in an action-packed Agent Venom movie.
1. Oscar Isaac – A Versatile Choice for Flash Thompson
Oscar Isaac is one of the most versatile actors of his generation, known for his roles in Ex Machina, Star Wars, and Dune. Isaac has shown an incredible range in playing complex, morally ambiguous characters, making him an intriguing candidate for Flash Thompson’s transformation into Agent Venom. Flash’s journey is one of redemption, and Isaac’s ability to portray characters with internal struggles and emotional depth could bring a new layer of nuance to the role. Physically, Isaac has shown he can handle action-heavy roles, making him an excellent fit for the role of a soldier-turned-hero. His intense on-screen presence, combined with his vulnerability, would make him a standout choice for Agent Venom.
2. John Boyega – A Strong and Emotional Flash Thompson
Best known for his role as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, John Boyega has the perfect combination of physicality and emotional depth needed to portray Flash Thompson’s transformation into Agent Venom. Flash, a former high school bully who becomes a hero after serving in the military, requires an actor who can capture both his struggles with the symbiote and his desire for redemption. Boyega’s experience with action-heavy roles, coupled with his ability to show vulnerability, makes him an ideal candidate for the role of Flash Thompson in a live-action Agent Venom movie.
3. Taron Egerton – A Charismatic and Complex Hero
Known for his breakout role in the Kingsman series and his impressive portrayal of Elton John in Rocketman, Taron Egerton has the charisma and versatility to bring Flash Thompson’s complex character to life. Flash is a character torn between his desire to do good and the uncontrollable power of the Venom symbiote, and Egerton’s range as an actor makes him an excellent choice for a role that requires both physical action and deep emotional turmoil. His ability to balance humor, charm, and seriousness could give the Agent Venom movie the depth it needs.
4. Joe Keery – The Darker Side of Flash Thompson
Joe Keery, who gained fame for his role as Steve Harrington on Stranger Things, is another actor who could bring a fresh take to Flash Thompson. Keery’s comedic background and experience playing characters who evolve over time would make him a great fit for the darker, more mature side of Flash’s journey into becoming Agent Venom. Although not as physically imposing as some other actors on this list, Keery could easily portray the internal conflict and emotional depth required to embody Flash’s struggle with the symbiote. His ability to portray vulnerability would make the character’s journey toward redemption all the more compelling.
5. Zac Efron – Action and Intensity with a Strong Emotional Core
Zac Efron has shown significant range in his career, transitioning from teen heartthrob roles to more intense and mature characters in movies like The Lucky One and Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile. Efron’s intense physicality, combined with his ability to convey depth and complexity, could be a perfect fit for the role of Flash Thompson. In Agent Venom, Flash undergoes a physical transformation as he becomes the host for the Venom symbiote, and Efron’s athletic build and experience with physically demanding roles would make him well-suited for the action-heavy aspects of the character. His ability to bring a sense of vulnerability to the table would also be important, as Flash’s struggle with his inner demons is a key aspect of his arc.
6. Stephen James – A Strong Presence with Emotional Range
Stephen James, known for his roles in If Beale Street Could Talk and Homecoming, brings a depth of emotional range that would be ideal for portraying Flash Thompson. Flash’s transformation into Agent Venom is not only physical but psychological, as he grapples with both the trauma of his military service and his newfound powers. James’ ability to play both vulnerable and tough characters makes him an intriguing choice for the role of Flash. He has the kind of grounded intensity needed for a character who must balance his humanity with the violent urges of the Venom symbiote.
7. Charlie Hunnam – A Battle-Hardened Flash Thompson
Charlie Hunnam, best known for his role as Jax Teller on Sons of Anarchy, brings the perfect combination of toughness, vulnerability, and leadership that Flash Thompson would need as Agent Venom. Flash’s backstory as a military veteran and his path to redemption aligns well with Hunnam’s past roles, particularly the way he has played characters who are morally conflicted but determined. As a physically imposing actor with significant action experience, Hunnam could also bring the necessary gravitas to Flash’s battles both external (against villains like Carnage) and internal (against the symbiote’s dark influence).
8. Michael B. Jordan – A Versatile, Physically Imposing Actor
Michael B. Jordan is one of Hollywood’s most versatile young actors, known for his roles in Creed, Black Panther, and The Fantastic Four. Jordan has the athletic build, intense screen presence, and dramatic range needed to portray Flash Thompson’s evolution into Agent Venom. His previous roles have proven his ability to balance action with emotional depth, which is crucial for portraying Flash’s internal conflict while wielding the symbiote’s destructive power. Jordan’s popularity would also bring significant box office appeal, making him a strong candidate for the role of Flash Thompson.
9. Aaron Taylor-Johnson – A Physical and Charismatic Flash Thompson
Aaron Taylor-Johnson, known for his roles in Kick-Ass, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and Bullet Train, has proven his ability to handle both action-packed and emotionally charged roles. As Flash Thompson, Taylor-Johnson’s blend of physicality and charm would make him a strong contender for the role of Agent Venom. His action credentials, particularly in roles that require high-intensity combat, are well suited to portray Flash’s battles with both his inner demons and dangerous foes like Carnage. Taylor-Johnson also has the emotional range to tackle the character’s darker moments, particularly his struggle with the symbiote and the responsibility that comes with wielding such power.
10. Jake Gyllenhaal – A Talented Actor with Depth and Gravitas
Jake Gyllenhaal, known for his roles in Nightcrawler, Donnie Darko, and Spider-Man: Far From Home, has proven himself to be one of the most dynamic actors of his generation. Gyllenhaal’s range, from playing psychologically complex characters to intense action roles, makes him a compelling choice for Flash Thompson. His ability to convey both the internal conflict of a character like Flash and the external pressure of being Agent Venom would add depth to the role. Gyllenhaal’s presence on screen would bring gravitas to Flash’s transition from soldier to hero, particularly as he faces the overwhelming power of the symbiote.
Conclusion: Who Should Play Agent Venom?
Choosing the right actor for Agent Venom will be a pivotal decision in the success of any future Venom film. Flash Thompson is a complex character whose journey involves themes of redemption, responsibility, and control, making it crucial to find an actor who can balance emotional depth with physicality. Whether it’s Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, or Michael B. Jordan, each of these talented actors has the potential to bring something unique to the role, and any one of them could take Flash Thompson from a former bully to the heroic Agent Venom on the big screen.
As fans eagerly await more Venom films, the question of who will play Agent Venom continues to stir excitement, with these actors leading the charge as potential candidates.
