
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has always been a sprawling, interconnected web of stories, characters, and timelines. With the release of Eternals in 2021, Marvel Studios took a bold step into uncharted territory, introducing a group of immortal beings tasked with protecting Earth from their ancient enemies, the Deviants. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film was a departure from the typical MCU formula, focusing on philosophical themes, slower pacing, and a more ensemble-driven narrative. While it received mixed reviews from critics and audiences, it left many wondering: Will there be a second Eternals movie? And if so, what could it bring to the table that the first one didn’t?
The Case for a Sequel
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Unresolved Storylines
The first Eternals movie ended with several cliffhangers and unanswered questions. The Eternals were divided, with some being taken by the Celestial Arishem for judgment, while others remained on Earth. Sersi (Gemma Chan), Kingo (Kumail Nanjiani), and Phastos (Brian Tyree Henry) were abducted, leaving Druig (Barry Keoghan), Thena (Angelina Jolie), and Makkari (Lauren Ridloff) to figure out their next steps. Additionally, the post-credits scenes introduced Eros (Harry Styles), the brother of Thanos, and Pip the Troll, hinting at a larger cosmic narrative. These unresolved threads provide ample material for a sequel to explore. -
Character Development
One of the criticisms of the first film was its large ensemble cast, which made it difficult to give each character enough screen time. A sequel could delve deeper into the backstories and relationships of the Eternals, particularly characters like Druig, Makkari, and Thena, who were fan favorites but didn’t get as much focus. Additionally, the introduction of Eros opens up new possibilities for character dynamics and conflicts. -
Expanding the Cosmic MCU
The Eternals are inherently tied to the cosmic side of the MCU, which has been steadily expanding with films like Guardians of the Galaxy and Thor: Love and Thunder. A second Eternals movie could further explore the Celestials, Deviants, and other cosmic entities, potentially tying into the larger Multiverse Saga. This could also provide opportunities for crossovers with other cosmic characters, such as the Guardians or even the Fantastic Four. -
Chloé Zhao’s Vision
Chloé Zhao brought a unique directorial style to Eternals, with a focus on natural landscapes, intimate character moments, and philosophical themes. While this approach divided audiences, it also set the film apart from other MCU entries. A sequel could allow Zhao to further refine her vision, potentially addressing some of the criticisms of the first film while maintaining its distinct identity.
Challenges for a Sequel
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Mixed Reception
The first Eternals movie received mixed reviews, with some praising its ambition and visuals, while others criticized its pacing and lack of focus. This mixed reception could make Marvel Studios hesitant to greenlight a sequel, especially given the high budget and expectations associated with MCU films. -
Competition Within the MCU
The MCU is more crowded than ever, with numerous films and Disney+ series vying for attention. A second Eternals movie would have to compete with other high-profile projects, such as Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Secret Wars, which could make it difficult to stand out. -
Balancing Tone and Themes
One of the challenges of the first film was balancing its philosophical themes with the action and humor expected from an MCU movie. A sequel would need to find the right balance to appeal to both fans of the first film and a broader audience.
Potential Directions for a Sequel
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The Judgment of Arishem
A sequel could pick up where the first film left off, with Sersi, Kingo, and Phastos facing judgment from Arishem. This could lead to a cosmic trial, with the Eternals having to defend their actions on Earth. This storyline could also explore the moral complexities of the Celestials and their role in the universe. -
The Rise of the Deviants
While the Deviants were largely defeated in the first film, their leader, Kro, hinted at a deeper connection to the Eternals. A sequel could explore the origins of the Deviants and their relationship to the Eternals, potentially introducing new threats or allies. -
Eros and the Cosmic MCU
The introduction of Eros opens up new possibilities for the Eternals’ role in the cosmic MCU. A sequel could explore Eros’s relationship with his brother, Thanos, and his own motivations. This could also tie into the larger Multiverse Saga, with the Eternals playing a key role in the fight against Kang the Conqueror or other multiversal threats. -
Thena’s Quest
Thena’s struggle with the Mahd Wy’ry, a condition that causes Eternals to lose their memories, was a key subplot in the first film. A sequel could delve deeper into this storyline, exploring the origins of the Mahd Wy’ry and its implications for the Eternals. This could also provide an opportunity for Angelina Jolie to take on a more central role in the narrative.
Conclusion
The question of whether there will be a second Eternals movie is still up in the air, but there are certainly compelling reasons for Marvel Studios to move forward with a sequel. The unresolved storylines, potential for character development, and opportunities to expand the cosmic MCU all make a strong case for another installment. However, the challenges of mixed reception, competition within the MCU, and balancing tone and themes cannot be ignored. Ultimately, the decision will likely come down to how well the first film’s legacy holds up and whether Marvel believes the Eternals have a place in the ever-evolving MCU.
Related Q&A
Q: Will Chloé Zhao return to direct a second Eternals movie?
A: While nothing has been confirmed, Chloé Zhao has expressed interest in returning to the MCU. Her unique vision was a defining aspect of the first film, and her involvement could help maintain the sequel’s distinct identity.
Q: How could the Eternals tie into the Multiverse Saga?
A: The Eternals’ connection to the Celestials and their role in the cosmic MCU could make them key players in the Multiverse Saga. They could be involved in battles against multiversal threats like Kang the Conqueror or even interact with alternate versions of themselves.
Q: What role could Eros play in a sequel?
A: Eros, also known as Starfox, is a charismatic and morally complex character. In a sequel, he could serve as a guide or ally to the Eternals, helping them navigate the cosmic challenges they face. His relationship with Thanos could also be explored, adding depth to the narrative.
Q: Could we see crossovers with other MCU characters in a sequel?
A: Absolutely. The Eternals’ cosmic nature makes them ideal candidates for crossovers with characters like the Guardians of the Galaxy, Thor, or even the Fantastic Four. Such crossovers could help integrate the Eternals more fully into the MCU.
Q: What lessons could Marvel learn from the first Eternals movie?
A: Marvel could take note of the mixed reception and focus on refining the pacing, character development, and balance between action and philosophical themes. A sequel that addresses these issues could help win over critics and audiences alike.