Collider argues that The Simpsons’ “Denim” segment from “Treehouse of Horror XXXV” is a more successful and amusing take on Venom than the live-action films starring Tom Hardy. The parody matters because it uses the long-running anthology’s freedom from normal continuity to lampoon a recent superhero franchise with darker, more absurd humour.

The article places “Denim” within The Simpsons’ annual “Treehouse of Horror” tradition, which began in Season 2 and spoofs horror, science fiction and fantasy. The Venom-inspired segment aired shortly after Venom: The Last Dance premiered, and is presented as evidence that the Halloween specials remain a sharp vehicle for topical satire.