Directed and co-written by Chloe Zhao, “Eternals” is not getting the attention and appreciation it deserves from the Marvel Studios fanbase. Released to Disney+ on Jan. 12, the movie’s plot was not particularly eventful, but served as a foundation for future films and storylines to come. Photo fair use of marvel.com
The new Marvel movie “Eternals” is an entertaining foundation for future Marvel Studios films, but the lack of an action-packed plotline may be disappointing to some viewers.
Released to Disney+ on Jan. 12, after originally releasing to theaters on Nov. 5, 2021, and directed by Chloe Zhao, “Eternals” is a hidden gem. While the film may seem unappealing due to the simple storyline, it does a fantastic job of setting up future installments in Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
For avid MCU fans it may feel strange to be watching a movie about characters other than the Avengers, but it was nice to see the MCU expand its storyline. The Avengers are referenced among the Eternals, but the two threads of the MCU come just short of overlapping.
The mid- and post-credits scenes are vital to this, as viewers will learn more about the backgrounds of familiar characters.
For the most part,“Eternals” revolves around Sersi (Gemma Chan), the main protagonist and chosen leader of Earth’s Eternals—also called the Prime Eternal—after the death of Ajak (Salma Hayek), the former Prime Eternal. Each Eternal possesses a unique ability, and Sersi is forced to embrace hers before she can use it to her advantage toward the end of the film.
A fantastic storyline has been presented. It just needs more development.
The rest of the Eternals, named Phastos (Brian Tyree Henry), Makkari (Lauren Ridloff), Druig (Barry Keoghan), Ikaris (Richard Madden), Gilgamesh (Don Lee), Thena (Angelina Jolie) and Sprite (Lia McHugh) work hand in hand with Sersi to overcome their seemingly insurmountable problems.
It is important to keep in mind that this movie is rated PG-13, and some content may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
Diehard Marvel fans are more likely to show interest in this film out of loyalty to the MCU, given that it lacks a plot strong enough to hold an audience on its own. There is a lack of depth to the storyline and a small amount of character development, which can ultimately lead to confusion upon first introduction to the film.
However, it would not be surprising to see “Eternals” gain more popularity after future films are released, when there is a more complete picture of the Eternals that viewers can understand. A fantastic storyline has been presented. It just needs more development.
If audiences are hoping to find the next big Marvel blockbuster, this won’t be it. “Eternals” will, however, leave viewers eagerly awaiting more after the cliffhanger that comes at the end of the movie.
