The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has grown into an expansive tapestry of interconnected stories, characters, and themes that captivate audiences globally. As Marvel Studios continues to innovate, its foray into cosmic mythology through the film “Eternals” raised questions among die-hard fans and casual viewers alike: Does “Eternals” connect to the MCU? In this article, we will delve into the various facets of “Eternals” and explore its relationship with the broader MCU universe.
Understanding “Eternals”
Released in November 2021 and directed by Chloé Zhao, “Eternals” introduces us to a diverse group of ancient beings known as the Eternals, who were created by the Celestials. They possess superhuman abilities and powers, tasked with protecting humanity from their opponents, the Deviants. Boasting a star-studded cast, including Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, and Gemma Chan, “Eternals” expands not only the MCU’s narrative but also its cosmic scope.
A Deep Dive into the MCU Connections
The MCU is known for its meticulously crafted interconnectedness, where films and characters often intertwine, revealing shared story arcs and overarching themes. “Eternals” is no exception to this trend, as it seamlessly integrates into the MCU in several distinct ways.
The Celestials: Guardians of Cosmic Power
One crucial connection between “Eternals” and the greater MCU lies in the introduction of the Celestials. The Celestials are ancient, god-like beings with the power to manipulate the fabric of the universe. They first made their cinematic debut in “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014), where Ego the Living Planet, portrayed by Kurt Russell, was revealed to be one of them.
In “Eternals,” the Celestials take center stage, driving the plot forward through their creation of the Eternals and imposing the need to combat the Deviants. The film’s climax revolves around a Celestial named Arishem the Judge, reaffirming their significance in the MCU’s vast mythology.
Connections to Thanos and the Infinity Saga
Another vital link lies within the Infinity Saga. Thanos, one of the most formidable villains in MCU history, is a member of the Eternals race, albeit a Deviant hybrid. The implications of this hybridization provide rich storytelling potential, as the movie explores genetic differences and the ramifications of eternal life.
Moreover, the film delves into questions regarding the snap and its impact on Earth, solely from a cosmic perspective. The aftermath of the Blip, which brought back half of the universe’s population, further emphasizes the Eternals’ obligation as protectors.
Character Interactions: The Drews and Their Roles
The Eternals are not merely interconnected through plot devices; the main characters establish dynamic relationships that enrich the narrative. Major characters such as Ikaris (played by Richard Madden) and Sersi (played by Gemma Chan) not only depict their own stories but also provide a bridge to the MCU’s larger tapestry.
The Role of Sersi
In “Eternals,” Sersi stands out as a central figure whose skills as a transmuter allow her to alter the properties of materials. Her chemistry with Druig (played by Barry Keoghan) showcases differing ideologies concerning humanity. This dichotomy mirrors the conflicts faced by various other MCU characters confronting their moral compass.
Ikaris and His Ominous Fate
Ikaris, a character akin to Superman in his powers, drives part of the film’s narrative. His pivotal actions and eventual betrayal not only highlight intricate relationships within the Eternal circle but also place him at odds with the Avengers’ ethical code, creating tension between the two factions.
The Bigger Picture: Introducing New Villains and Allies
The introduction of new characters can cause ripples throughout the MCU. “Eternals” serves as a launchpad for further exploration of cosmic heroes and villains, hinting at future confrontations and alliances.
The Birth of New Heroes
Among the most significant expansions from “Eternals” is the potential arrival of new heroes. Characters like Kingo (played by Kumail Nanjiani), a Bollywood star with cosmic abilities, and Thena (played by Angelina Jolie), a fierce warrior, showcase the possibilities for future storylines. Their unique backgrounds provide fresh entry points for integrating into the MCU.
Setting the Stage for Future Conflicts
Moreover, the film hints at potential villains that could emerge. With the introduction of Black Knight (Dane Whitman), played by Kit Harington, and his connection to the mystical side of the MCU, there are endless avenues for crossovers and future conflicts with existing heroes.
Cameos and References: A Clear Connection to the MCU
One of the marvels (literally and figuratively) of “Eternals” is the strategic placements of cameos and references that strengthen its connection to the broader MCU.
Familiar Faces and Voice Cameos
Perhaps one of the most recognizable references is through the voice cameo of Patton Oswalt, who reprises his role as Black Bolt from the Inhumans series. This nod exemplifies that the fabric uniting the MCU is rich and varied, integrating both the cinematic dimension and television series.
A Hidden Easter Egg
The film also drops Easter eggs, such as references to Captain America and Thor, reminding viewers of the ongoing cosmic struggles that extend beyond Earth. These subtle inclusions invite viewers to think deeper about how characters from “Eternals” might interact with existing Avengers.
Critical Reception and Future Impacts
The film’s release has spurred numerous discussions among critics and audiences alike on how it expands the MCU and its mythology. The combination of ambitious storytelling while retaining ties to established universes poses both challenges and opportunities for the future.
Mixed Reviews but Lasting Influence
While Eternals received mixed reviews regarding pacing and character development, its deeper implications and cosmic storytelling leave a lasting impression. Critics applauded its venture into substantial themes and character diversity, suggesting that global audiences find resonance in different elements of the MCU.
The Path Forward: Implications for Future Phases
Lastly, “Eternals” sets the stage for the Multiverse Saga, feeding into potential crossovers with other Strands of the MCU. As the narrative evolves, the Eternals possess the versatility to intersect not only with upcoming characters but also with legacy ones from the more earthly aspects of Marvel.
Conclusion: A Cosmic Expansion
In conclusion, “Eternals” undeniably connects to the MCU, albeit in its own unique way. By introducing the Celestials, intertwining narratives of existing characters, and teasing potential future heroes and villains, this film expands the cosmic landscape of Marvel and invites deeper exploration of its mythology. As audiences continue to embrace the evolving tales crafted by Marvel Studios, “Eternals” stands as a poignant reminder that even the most ancient beings can have a place in a universe defined by its ever-expanding dimensions.
With its rich lore, diverse characters, and ties to the larger Marvel mythos, “Eternals” propels the MCU into new galaxies, ensuring that its narrative remains as captivating as it is interconnected. The questions regarding its future and impact linger, but one thing remains certain: the Eternals are here to stay, and their journey within the MCU will continue to unfold in thrilling ways.
1. How do the Eternals relate to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)?
The Eternals are a significant addition to the MCU, expanding its cosmic scope. They were introduced in the Marvel Comics as an advanced race of beings created by the Celestials, powerful cosmic entities in the MCU. The film explores their long-standing existence on Earth and their role in the broader cosmic narrative, connecting them to events and characters throughout the MCU timeline.
In the movie, references to major events from the MCU, such as the Avengers and Thanos, help to establish the connection between the Eternals and the rest of the universe. They provide a fresh perspective on how the universe has been influenced by the Celestials and draw attention to the cosmic stakes involved in the ongoing battle between good and evil.
2. Are the Eternals connected to the Infinity Saga?
While the Eternals are not directly involved in the Infinity Saga, their origins and actions have far-reaching implications for the cosmic narrative introduced during that period. The film reveals that the Eternals have been on Earth for millennia, subtly influencing humanity while staying in the shadows, and their connection to the Celestials ties back to the larger forces at play throughout the Infinity Saga.
Moreover, the fallout from the Infinity Saga creates a new landscape of threats that the Eternals must contend with. The results of the Avengers’ battles with Thanos lead to a re-examination of what it means to be a protector of Earth. This evolving dynamic allows the Eternals to become more integrated into the fabric of the MCU moving forward.
3. Will we see the Eternals interact with other Marvel characters?
Yes, the potential for interactions between the Eternals and other Marvel characters is quite high in future installments of the MCU. The Eternals are positioned to play pivotal roles in the next phases, and given their long history in the Marvel Comics, they have numerous opportunities to cross paths with well-established characters from the MCU.
As the MCU continues to explore its cosmic frontiers through various projects, including sequels to existing franchises and new characters, the Eternals could join forces with or confront heroes like the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, and others. These interactions would enrich the MCU’s storytelling and provide thrilling opportunities for character development and conflict.
4. What are the Celestials, and how do they connect to the Eternals?
The Celestials are ancient and powerful cosmic beings that play a crucial role in the creation of the Eternals. In the MCU, they are depicted as god-like entities capable of immense power. They created the Eternals as part of their experiments on evolving life forms and protecting Earth from threats, such as the Deviants, another race they also created. This relationship underscores the deep, mythological roots of the Eternals within the MCU.
The presence of the Celestials profoundly impacts the narrative of the Eternals film, as their motives and actions are central to understanding the Eternals’ purpose on Earth. This backstory establishes a rich lore that connects to the cosmic side of the MCU, offering fans a greater understanding of the universe’s origins and the ongoing battles they must face.
5. Can we expect future films or series featuring the Eternals?
Yes, the Eternals are set for further exploration in future films and series within the MCU. Following the events of their debut film, the seeds have been planted for more stories to unfold that involve the Eternals’ impact on the universe, their conflicts, and their relationships with other characters. Given the success and interest in cosmic narratives, Marvel Studios is likely to continue building upon their storylines.
There is also an indication from Marvel’s phased expansion plan that the Eternals will have a significant presence in upcoming projects. Whether through sequels or cross-overs, fans can anticipate exciting developments as the Eternals continue to evolve within the larger MCU tapestry.
6. Are there any Easter eggs in the Eternals that reference other MCU films?
Yes, “Eternals” is packed with Easter eggs and references that connect to other MCU films, which enhance the viewing experience for die-hard fans. For example, there are mentions of the Avengers and significant events that took place during the Infinity Saga, including references to characters and battles that have already shaped the MCU narrative. This inclusion creates a sense of continuity and interconnectedness within the MCU.
Additionally, visual and narrative clues throughout the film may hint at future plotlines, including potential character cameos or interactions. By weaving in these references, Marvel reinforces the idea that the Eternals are an essential part of the larger cosmic landscape and rewards fans for their knowledge of previous MCU lore.
7. How do the themes of the Eternals relate to the existing MCU themes?
The themes explored in “Eternals,” such as immortality, sacrifice, and the moral implications of power, resonate deeply with existing themes within the MCU. These themes are universal and have been explored by various characters throughout the franchise, particularly with regards to the choices heroes make and the consequences that arise from them. This shared thematic landscape provides a compelling bridge that connects the Eternals to the established MCU.
Additionally, the exploration of identity and belonging faced by the Eternals echoes the struggles seen in other characters who grapple with their powers and responsibilities. By aligning these themes, the film reinforces the idea that while the Eternals may be cosmic beings, their experiences and moral dilemmas remain relatable and relevant to the audience, grounding them within the human experience.
8. What impact do the Eternals have on the future of the MCU?
The introduction of the Eternals expands the MCU’s universe exponentially, heralding new story possibilities and exploring themes that go beyond earthly concerns. Their unique abilities and cosmic perspective offer fresh conflicts and alliances that reshuffle the traditional Marvel dynamic. The Eternals’ influence can lead to new adventures and complexities as the MCU develops its story arcs, especially in a post-Infinity Saga world.
As the MCU continues to delve into its cosmic realms, the Eternals are positioned to play an essential role in shaping the landscape of future phases. Their existence opens the door to more profound explorations of cosmic entities, alternate dimensions, and the implications of immortality, thereby enhancing the narrative depth of the entire MCU.