Introducing Eternals (2021): Marvel’s Cosmic Epic

Eternals (2021) is one of the most ambitious films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), offering a fresh perspective on superheroes through the lens of mythology and science fiction. Directed by Chloé Zhao – the Oscar-winning director of Nomadland – Eternals is not just a typical superhero movie but a profound story about humanity, responsibility, and immortality. With an all-star cast and an epic scope, the film opens a new chapter in the MCU, introducing a group of immortal heroes whose history spans millennia.

Plot

Eternals revolves around a group of ten immortal superheroes created by the Celestials – powerful cosmic entities. Sent to Earth 7,000 years ago, the Eternals – Sersi, Ikaris, Kingo, Thena, Gilgamesh, Ajak, Sprite, Phastos, Makkari, and Druig – are tasked with protecting humanity from the Deviants, monstrous creatures that threaten life. For thousands of years, they quietly intervene, shaping human history without leaving a trace.

After believing they had eradicated the Deviants in the 16th century, the Eternals scatter and live in secrecy among humans. However, in the modern era, the Deviants’ return forces them to reunite. Even more terrifying is the truth about their true mission on Earth, tied to a cosmic event called the “Emergence” – a secret that could change the fate of the entire planet.

The film blends breathtaking action, emotional stories of friendship, love, and sacrifice, with philosophical questions about the meaning of existence and humanity’s place in the universe.

Cast and Characters

Eternals boasts a diverse and talented cast, bringing these immortal characters to life:

• Gemma Chan as Sersi: A compassionate Eternal with the ability to manipulate matter, deeply connected to humanity.
• Richard Madden as Ikaris: A powerful leader with superhuman strength and flight, grappling with inner conflicts.
• Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo: A charismatic Eternal who becomes a Bollywood star, wielding cosmic energy in battle.
• Angelina Jolie as Thena: A fierce warrior who creates weapons from cosmic energy, struggling with a psychological condition called “Mahd Wy’ry.”
• Brian Tyree Henry as Phastos: A brilliant inventor who introduced technology to humanity.
• Salma Hayek as Ajak: The spiritual leader of the group, with healing abilities and the power to communicate with Celestials.
• Lauren Ridloff as Makkari: The fastest Eternal in the universe, using super-speed in combat.
• Barry Keoghan as Druig: A solitary Eternal with mind-control abilities, constantly questioning his mission.
• Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee) as Gilgamesh: A mighty warrior and Thena’s loyal companion.
• Lia McHugh as Sprite: An Eternal with a youthful appearance, capable of creating illusions.

Additionally, Kit Harington plays Dane Whitman, a human character with a significant role in the MCU’s future, particularly tied to the Ebony Blade in the post-credits scene.

Highlights

1. Chloé Zhao’s Directorial Style
   Chloé Zhao brings a unique storytelling approach, blending the MCU’s grandeur with the authenticity and emotional depth of independent cinema. She uses natural lighting and sweeping outdoor shots to create a majestic atmosphere, distinct from previous Marvel films.
2. Visual Effects and Music
   Spanning settings from ancient Babylon to modern London, Eternals delivers stunning visuals, especially in scenes featuring Celestials and battles with Deviants. The score by Ramin Djawadi (Game of Thrones) blends epic grandeur with intimate, emotional moments.
3. Diversity and Representation
   Eternals is one of the MCU’s most diverse films, featuring characters from various ethnicities, genders, and cultures. It introduces the first deaf character (Makkari) and includes an open same-sex relationship (between Phastos and his husband), marking a step forward in LGBTQ+ representation.
4. Philosophical Questions
   Beyond action, the film poses profound questions: Is humanity worth saving? Is immortality a gift or a curse? The Eternals face complex moral choices, prompting viewers to reflect on the value of life.

Post-Credits Scenes and Future

Eternals includes two pivotal post-credits scenes:

• Scene 1: Introduces Eros/Starfox (Harry Styles) and Pip the Troll (Patton Oswalt), hinting at a new cosmic adventure.
• Scene 2: Dane Whitman (Kit Harington) confronts the Ebony Blade, setting the stage for his future as the Black Knight.

While no official confirmation for Eternals 2 exists, the film’s events lay the groundwork for other MCU projects, such as Captain America: Brave New World (2025), which will address the Celestial Tiamut’s remains.

Reception and Impact

Eternals received mixed reviews. Audiences praised its stunning visuals, impressive performances, and ambitious narrative, but some criticized its slow pacing and large cast, which made the story challenging to follow. Nevertheless, the film succeeded in expanding the MCU’s boundaries, introducing a grander world where gods and humans coexist.

Additional Information

• Release Date: November 5, 2021 (USA)
• Runtime: 2 hours 36 minutes
• Director: Chloé Zhao
• Writers: Chloé Zhao, Patrick Burleigh, Ryan Firpo, Kaz Firpo
• Genre: Superhero, Science Fiction, Action
• Rating: PG-13

Where to Watch?

You can stream Eternals on platforms like Disney+, or rent/purchase it on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and other streaming services.

Conclusion

Eternals is a bold film that ushers the MCU into a new era with its cosmic scale and profound storytelling. While not perfect, it’s a must-watch for fans of action, philosophy, and emotional depth. Stay tuned to see how the Eternals’ journey continues in the MCU’s future!