The Eternals, a group of immortal superheroes created by the legendary comic book writer and artist Jack Kirby, have been a part of Marvel Comics since their debut in 1976.
These powerful beings have fascinated comic book fans for decades, and now, they are set to make their mark on the big screen.
The Eternals, directed by Chloé Zhao and released in 2021, brings these captivating characters to life in a way that both honors their comic book origins and presents a fresh perspective on their stories.
In this article, we will explore the rich history of the Eternals, delve into their comic characters’ summary, and examine the much-anticipated film adaptation.
Jack Kirby: The creator of the Eternals and his impact on comics
Born in 1917, Jack Kirby was an influential figure in the world of comics. With an illustrious career spanning over five decades, he left an indelible mark on the industry and created many iconic characters.
He began his career in the 1930s and, together with Joe Simon, co-created Captain America in 1941. Kirby then went on to work at Marvel Comics, where he co-created the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, and the Avengers with writer Stan Lee.
The Eternals were born from Kirby’s fascination with ancient mythology, cosmic beings, and the concept of immortality.
Their comic book origins can be traced back to the 1976 series, “The Eternals,” which introduced readers to a group of god-like beings with incredible powers.
These characters were created by the Celestials, a race of cosmic entities who visited Earth millions of years ago.
The Eternals’ purpose was to protect Earth and its inhabitants from the Deviants, another race created by the Celestials that had evolved into destructive, monstrous beings.
A comprehensive comic characters summary: Who’s who in the Eternals
The Eternals boast a diverse and fascinating cast of characters, each with their own unique powers and abilities.
Some of the most notable members include:
- Ikaris: The noble and courageous leader of the Eternals, Ikaris possesses immense strength, the ability to fly, and energy projection powers.
- Sersi: A skilled sorceress and manipulator of matter, Sersi is one of the most powerful Eternals, and her compassion for humanity often puts her at odds with her fellow immortals.
- Thena: A fierce warrior and strategist, Thena wields a variety of weapons and can generate intense heat and energy with her hands.
- Ajak: The wise and spiritual guide of the Eternals, Ajak has the ability to communicate with the Celestials and heal others.
- Kingo: A skilled swordsman and master of martial arts, Kingo uses his abilities for fame and fortune as a popular movie star.
- Phastos: An inventive genius and engineer, Phastos can manipulate technology and create advanced weaponry for the Eternals.
- Makkari: The fastest of the Eternals, Makkari can move at incredible speeds, allowing her to scout, gather information, and evade enemies with ease.
Chloé Zhao’s vision: Insights into the 2021 adaptation
Acclaimed filmmaker Chloé Zhao brings her unique vision to the Eternals, crafting a stunning and thought-provoking adaptation that both honors the source material and introduces new elements to the story.
Zhao, who won the Academy Award for Best Director for her film “Nomadland,” has stated that she was drawn to the project because of the opportunity to explore themes of identity, purpose, and the human experience through the lens of these immortal characters.
One notable aspect of Zhao’s vision for the film is the diverse and inclusive casting, which features actors of various ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds.
This decision not only reflects the global nature of the Eternals’ story but also serves to update and modernize the characters for contemporary audiences.
Exploring the movie summary and its relation to the comics
The plot of the Eternals movie finds the titular heroes reuniting after thousands of years apart. When an unexpected tragedy forces them out of hiding, they must come together to defend Earth and humanity from the Deviants once more.
While the film takes inspiration from various comic book storylines, it also introduces new narrative elements and characters, such as the villainous Kro and the mysterious Gilgamesh.
Fans of the comics will appreciate the film’s faithfulness to the source material, as well as the way it expands upon the Eternals’ mythology. For newcomers, the movie serves as an accessible and engaging introduction to these fascinating characters and their rich history.
A parent guide to the Eternals movie
The Eternals is a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages, but parents should be aware of certain aspects before taking younger children to see it.
The movie is rated PG-13 for sequences of fantasy violence and action, some language, and brief sexuality. While the film’s action sequences are thrilling and visually stunning, they may be too intense for very young viewers.
That being said, the Eternals also offers positive messages about teamwork, courage, and the importance of embracing one’s own identity.
Furthermore, the diverse cast and strong representation of female characters make it an empowering and inspiring film for viewers of all backgrounds.
When and where it takes place: Notable film locations
The Eternals is set in the present day but also features flashbacks to various points in human history, as the immortal heroes have been living among us for millennia.
The film’s breathtaking locations span the globe, showcasing the diverse and beautiful landscapes of Earth.
Some of the most memorable film locations include:
- The Canary Islands, Spain: The stunning volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands serve as the backdrop for the Eternals’ early interactions with early human civilizations.
- London, England: As one of the world’s most iconic cities, London plays a significant role in the film, with key scenes taking place at famous landmarks such as the British Museum and Tower Bridge.
- The Wadi Rum desert, Jordan: The otherworldly beauty of the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan provides a fitting setting for the Eternals’ encounters with the Celestials and their battles against the Deviants.
Memorable quotes from the Eternals
The Eternals is filled with memorable lines and moments that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.
Some standout quotes from the film include:
- “We were sent to protect them. From what? Themselves?” – Ikaris, reflecting on the Eternals’ mission to defend humanity.
- “If this is what we were made for, why does it feel so wrong?” – Sersi, grappling with the moral implications of her powers and her role as an Eternal.
- “A true warrior doesn’t seek out battles, but is always prepared for them.” – Thena, imparting wisdom on the nature of conflict and the importance of readiness.
The captivating soundtrack by Ramin Djawadi
The Eternals’ evocative and powerful score is composed by Ramin Djawadi, the renowned musician behind the music of “Game of Thrones” and “Westworld.”
Djawadi’s soundtrack masterfully blends orchestral, electronic, and world music elements, creating a unique sonic landscape that reflects the film’s themes and settings.
The score serves to heighten the emotional impact of key moments, as well as underscore the epic scale of the Eternals’ adventures.
Curiosities and Easter eggs in the movie
As with any Marvel film, the Eternals is packed with Easter eggs, references, and nods to the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Without spoiling the fun, some of the most intriguing curiosities in the movie include:
- Connections to other Marvel characters and films, such as the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy.
- Subtle visual homages to Jack Kirby’s distinct artistic style, which can be spotted in the film’s production design and visual effects.
- Hints at the larger cosmic mythology of the MCU, with potential implications for future films and storylines.
Tips for cosplay: Dressing like your favorite Eternals characters
If you’re inspired to cosplay as one of the Eternals, here are some tips to help you create an authentic and eye-catching costume:
- Study the characters’ costumes closely, paying attention to details such as fabric, colors, and patterns.
- Consider using high-quality materials and craftsmanship to replicate the intricate designs and textures of the Eternals’ outfits.
- Don’t forget about accessories, such as weapons, jewelry, and headpieces, which can add an extra layer of authenticity to your cosplay.
The ending explained: Breaking down the movie’s conclusion
Without delving into spoiler territory, the ending of the Eternals is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving audiences with plenty to ponder long after the credits roll.
The film’s conclusion ties up several key plot threads while also setting the stage for potential sequels and spin-offs.
As with any Marvel film, be sure to stick around for the post-credits scenes, which offer tantalizing hints at the future of the Eternals and the wider MCU.
Future prospects: Remakes, sequels, and spin-offs
Given the positive reception and box office success of the Eternals, it’s likely that we’ll see more of these characters on the big screen in the future.
Possible avenues for future films include direct sequels, prequels exploring the Eternals’ past adventures, and spin-offs focusing on individual characters.
Additionally, the Eternals could make appearances in other MCU films, further expanding their role in the shared universe.
Other works by Chloé Zhao and Jack Kirby
If you’re a fan of Chloé Zhao’s work on the Eternals and want to explore more of her filmography, be sure to check out her previous films, such as “Songs My Brothers Taught Me,” “The Rider,” and the Oscar-winning “Nomadland.”
For those interested in exploring more of Jack Kirby’s comic book creations, some of his most celebrated works include “The New Gods,” “Mister Miracle,” and “The Forever People” for DC Comics, as well as “The Fantastic Four,” “The Avengers,” and “The X-Men” for Marvel Comics.
Similar media to explore: Movies, TV shows, and comics
If you’ve enjoyed the Eternals and are looking for similar media to explore, here are some suggestions:
- Movies: “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Thor: Ragnarok,” and “Doctor Strange” for their cosmic settings and themes.
- TV shows: “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” and “The Gifted” for their exploration of lesser-known Marvel characters and stories.
- Comics: “The Inhumans,” “Nova,” and “The Ultimates” for their focus on powerful, cosmic beings and their adventures.
Book club questions for discussing the Eternals
If you’re interested in discussing the Eternals with fellow fans, here are some book club questions to help spark conversation:
- How does the Eternals explore themes of identity, purpose, and the human experience through its immortal characters?
- In what ways does the film adaptation stay faithful to the source material, and where does it diverge or introduce new elements?
- How does the diverse and inclusive casting of the film impact the story and characters?
- What are the implications of the Eternals’ presence in the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe, and what potential stories could be explored in future films?
Eternals-inspired video games and interactive experiences
While there are no video games specifically based on the Eternals, fans can look forward to encountering these characters in future Marvel gaming experiences, such as the upcoming “Marvel’s Midnight Suns” by Firaxis Games.
Additionally, popular mobile games like “Marvel Contest of Champions” and “Marvel Future Fight” often feature events and updates tied to the latest Marvel films, so keep an eye out for Eternals-related content in these titles.
Travel guide: Visiting real-life Eternals film locations
If you’re inspired to visit the stunning locations featured in the Eternals movie, consider adding these destinations to your travel bucket list:
- The Canary Islands, Spain: Explore the volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches of this Atlantic archipelago.
- London, England: Discover the history and culture of one of the world’s most iconic cities, with plenty of Eternals filming locations to visit.
- The Wadi Rum desert, Jordan: Experience the otherworldly beauty of this vast desert, which has been the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows.
Conclusion
The Eternals is a fascinating and visually stunning exploration of immortal superheroes, cosmic mythology, and the human experience.
With a diverse and talented cast, an engaging story, and breathtaking visuals, the film offers something for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
As you delve deeper into the world of the Eternals through comics, movies, and other media, you’ll discover a rich and captivating universe that will leave you eager for more.
