"Eternals" is a 2021 American superhero film directed by Chloé Zhao and written by Patrick Burleigh, Ryan Firpo, and Kaz Firpo.
The movie is based on the Marvel Comics race of the same name and is the 26th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The film stars an ensemble cast including Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lia McHugh, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee, Kit Harington, Salma Hayek, and Angelina Jolie.
The film follows the story of the Eternals, immortal alien beings who emerge from hiding after thousands of years to protect Earth from their ancient counterparts, the Deviants. The Eternals are led by Ajak, who is killed by the Deviant Kro. Sersi is chosen as her successor and learns that the Deviants are returning to Earth.
The film was produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. It was released theatrically in many European countries on November 3, 2021, and in the United States and the United Kingdom on November 5, 2021. The film was initially set for release on November 6, 2020, but was shifted to February 12, 2021, and then to the November 2021 date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with a 47% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 51 out of 100. It was criticized for its poor character development, clunky dialogue, and lack of emotional connection. Despite this, some reviewers appreciated the film's style and energy, calling it a welcome addition to the MCU.