“Eternals,” directed by Chloé Zhao, is a groundbreaking entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Released in November 2021, the film introduces a new group of superheroes known as the Eternals, immortal beings who have secretly lived on Earth for thousands of years. With its unique narrative structure, diverse cast, and philosophical undertones, “Eternals” offers a fresh and ambitious take on the superhero genre.
Cast
The film features an ensemble cast of talented actors, including:
- Gemma Chan as Sersi
- Richard Madden as Ikaris
- Angelina Jolie as Thena
- Salma Hayek as Ajak
- Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo
- Lia McHugh as Sprite
- Brian Tyree Henry as Phastos
- Lauren Ridloff as Makkari
- Barry Keoghan as Druig
- Don Lee as Gilgamesh
- Kit Harington as Dane Whitman
- Harish Patel as Karun
Customer Reviews
“Eternals” has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. The film is praised for its ambitious scope, stunning visuals, and strong performances, particularly by Gemma Chan and Richard Madden. However, some critics have noted that the film’s complex narrative and slower pacing may not appeal to all viewers.
User reviews reflect a range of opinions. One reviewer mentioned, “The film’s exploration of deeper themes and its diverse cast make it a standout in the MCU, even if it doesn’t follow the typical superhero formula.” Another user commented, “While the movie is visually stunning, it can feel a bit slow and convoluted at times.”
Plot
The film begins with the Eternals arriving on Earth thousands of years ago, sent by the Celestial Arishem to protect humanity from the monstrous Deviants. The Eternals, who possess various superhuman abilities, help guide and protect human civilization throughout history, but are forbidden from interfering in human conflicts unless Deviants are involved.
In the present day, Sersi and Sprite, two Eternals living in London, are attacked by a Deviant. They are joined by Ikaris, and together they set out to reunite the scattered Eternals to face a new threat. As they gather their team, they learn that their true mission is to prepare Earth for the emergence of a new Celestial, which will result in the planet’s destruction.
The Eternals are divided on how to proceed, with Ikaris remaining loyal to Arishem’s plan and others, like Sersi, seeking to protect humanity. The film culminates in a dramatic battle where the Eternals must confront their own beliefs and loyalties. Ultimately, they manage to prevent the emergence, but at great personal cost.
The movie ends with some Eternals departing Earth to find other Celestials, while others stay behind to protect the planet. The mid-credits and post-credits scenes tease future storylines involving new characters and potential threats.
Themes and Analysis
Immortality and Purpose
One of the central themes of “Eternals” is the exploration of immortality and its impact on purpose and meaning. The Eternals, having lived for thousands of years, grapple with their roles and the weight of their eternal existence. The film delves into how their prolonged lives influence their relationships, decisions, and sense of duty, raising questions about purpose and the burden of immortality.
Diversity and Representation
“Eternals” stands out for its commitment to diversity and representation. The film features a multicultural cast and includes characters from various backgrounds, showcasing Marvel’s efforts to reflect a more inclusive world. Characters like Makkari, who is deaf, and Phastos, who is openly gay, bring much-needed representation to the superhero genre, resonating with audiences who see themselves reflected on screen.
Conflict Between Duty and Morality
The film also explores the conflict between duty and morality. The Eternals are bound by their mission to serve the Celestials, but as they grow attached to humanity, they face moral dilemmas about their true purpose. This internal conflict drives much of the narrative, as characters like Sersi and Ikaris embody the struggle between following orders and doing what they believe is right.
Memorable Quotes
Here are some of the most memorable quotes from “Eternals”:
- Sersi: “When you love something, you protect it.”
- Ikaris: “I have followed Arishem for thousands of years. I will not abandon him now.”
- Kingo: “I’ve directed some of the greatest action movies of all time. This is the real deal!”
- Thena: “We have loved these people since the day we arrived. When you love something, you protect it.”
These lines capture the essence of the characters and the film’s emotional and philosophical depth.
Trailer
Behind the Scenes
The making of the movie involved a talented team of filmmakers and actors. Director Chloé Zhao, known for her naturalistic storytelling and visually stunning cinematography, brought a unique vision to the MCU. The film’s production design, visual effects, and costume design all contribute to creating a rich and immersive world that spans millennia.
The cast underwent extensive training to perform the film’s intricate fight sequences, and the use of practical effects combined with CGI helped to ground the fantastical elements in a sense of realism. The film’s score, composed by Ramin Djawadi, adds an epic and emotional layer to the story.
Box Office Performance
“Eternals” performed well at the box office, grossing over $400 million worldwide. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the film’s strong box office performance reflects the anticipation and interest in this new chapter of the MCU. The film’s success also highlights the growing demand for diverse and inclusive storytelling in mainstream cinema.
Future of the Eternals in the MCU
The film’s mid-credits and post-credits scenes hint at the future of the Eternals in the MCU. The introduction of new characters like Eros (played by Harry Styles) and Pip the Troll suggests that the Eternals’ story is far from over. Additionally, the emergence of the Celestial Arishem and the unresolved fate of some Eternals set the stage for potential sequels and crossover events with other MCU characters.
Conclusion
“Eternals” is a bold and ambitious addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering a unique blend of cosmic adventure, philosophical exploration, and diverse representation. While it may not follow the traditional superhero formula, its stunning visuals, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a noteworthy entry in the MCU. Whether you’re a longtime Marvel fan or new to the franchise, “Eternals” provides a fresh and intriguing cinematic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Eternals” about?
“Eternals” follows a group of immortal beings who have lived on Earth for thousands of years, protecting humanity from the Deviants. The film explores their struggles, relationships, and their ultimate mission, which involves preventing the emergence of a new Celestial that would destroy the planet.
How long is “Eternals”?
The film has a runtime of 157 minutes.
Who directed “Eternals”?
The movie was directed by Chloé Zhao, known for her work on “Nomadland” and “The Rider.”
Is “Eternals” connected to the larger MCU?
Yes, “Eternals” is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and introduces new characters and elements that will play significant roles in future MCU projects.
What are the critical responses to “Eternals”?
Critics have praised the film for its ambitious scope, diverse cast, and philosophical themes, while noting that its complex narrative and slower pacing may not appeal to all viewers. It holds mixed ratings on review platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic.