[Review] 'Eternals' Has No Heartfelt Hero... But It's a Decent Start

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[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] 'Eternals' has opened the grand and vast Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Its expansive cosmic scale and dazzling action scenes capture attention. However, some reactions note that the dark storyline and thematic tone feel somewhat unfamiliar, leading to mixed opinions. Overall, it’s a decent start. Even 'The Avengers' received criticism for feeling like a toy at its debut. The film is worth watching just for Ma Dong-seok’s powerful performance that struck Marvel like a knockout punch.

Marvel Studios’ new film 'Eternals' (directed by Chlo? Zhao) held a press screening on the afternoon of the 28th at CGV Yongsan in Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, marking its first domestic unveiling.

The hero team set to write a new chapter in MCU Phase 4 has been unveiled. An ancient history and vast narrative unfold, signaling the start of another journey.

The Eternals, who arrived on Earth 7,000 years ago, were commanded by the cosmic creators, the Celestials, to defeat the oldest enemies threatening humanity, the Deviants. Afterward, they have lived alongside humans. Immortal beings who neither age nor die, the Eternals have lived hidden among humans and now unite to face the Deviants who reemerged after 'Avengers: Endgame' (2019).

Unlike Marvel’s previous works, which maintained a cheerful and dynamic atmosphere, 'Eternals' carries a strong thematic tone. The story moves back and forth between ancient Mesopotamian civilization around 7000 BCE, ancient Babylon circa 2500 BCE, the Aztec Empire in 1521 BCE, and the Gupta Empire in Southeast Asia around 400 CE. The depiction of the Eternals living alongside various human civilizations is intriguing.

There are some shortcomings. Perhaps due to the setting or the story, the tone is somewhat dark. This gives a strange impression compared to previous Marvel works. The characters’ appeal does not particularly shine, and the villains fail to make a strong impact.

There is a 'flood' of love lines. Between women and men, men and men, men and children?almost every character’s romance is depicted or hinted at, to some extent exaggerated. This is also a departure from previous Marvel films.

The film faithfully explains the background of the Eternals’ origin and the world to come as Phase 4 begins. However, the 155-minute runtime is not boring.

While 'The Avengers' previously told the story of protecting humanity living on Earth, 'Eternals' expands into space, foreshadowing stories involving multiple planets and cosmic life forms, including Earth. It appears set to present a broad narrative spanning various time periods from ancient times to the present. The action scenes set in diverse locations such as deserts and seas are also a highlight. The high-quality action on a grand scale is the film’s highlight.

Comparisons are inevitable given the strong lingering impression and enthusiastic fanbase of the previous Marvel films. But this is a decent start. Similar criticisms were made when 'The Avengers' first introduced its characters one by one. Early suits and weapons were considered awkward, but as the series progressed, they naturally blended in.

The introduction is now complete. The start is not easy. It is no simple task to fit a 7,000-year story and a cosmic-expanded worldview into one film. Now, it remains only for each Eternal’s character to find their place. We will have to wait for the sequel, where the characters’ stories will be fully developed, to know for sure.

Ma Dong-seok’s performance, as the first male actor to become a Marvel movie hero, shines. He appears as Gilgamesh, one of the ten original Eternals who came to Earth 7,000 years ago. As a warrior with immense strength, he stands out with a unique presence.

His entrance is powerful. Gilgamesh, who can create an exoskeleton from cosmic energy to amplify his strength, defeats fierce enemies with his bare fists. The scene where he turns around with a relaxed expression and slaps an opponent brings to mind the Ma Dong-seok we know from Korean films, eliciting laughter.

While other Eternals struggle using their weapons against enemies, Gilgamesh defeats foes with a single punch. This charm is familiar to domestic audiences but will likely appear fresh to Hollywood viewers. Previously, Thor, another strong 'Avengers' hero, wielded a hammer as a weapon, but Ma Dong-seok’s bare-handed combat stands out.

His humor also shines. Despite his great strength, he leads a relaxed daily life. In moments that reveal the charm of 'Mablli' (Ma Dong-seok + Lovely), audience affection for the character rises. This is familiar to domestic viewers, making it even more amusing.

Gilgamesh shares a special friendship with Thena (played by Angelina Jolie), who has been with him for a long time, protecting him in his confusion. The two deeply connect and become each other’s most precious beings.

Earlier, actress Angelina Jolie expressed special affection for Ma Dong-seok during a recent virtual press conference with the Korean media. Jolie made a surprise appearance on set, embraced Ma Dong-seok, and showed their close friendship by saying, "He has become my dearest friend." Watching the film makes it clear why Jolie emphasized 'friend' so much.

There are two post-credit scenes. They are must-watch and unavoidable. One even includes a mention of BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan).

A female character passes the leadership of the Eternals to another woman. There are Eastern and Western, hearing-impaired superheroes, and a same-sex couple sharing a kiss. Rated 12 and up. Runtime 155 minutes. Opens on the 3rd of next month.

Photo = Walt Disney Company Korea

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.