Eternals - Movie Review by SRA

"Eternals" is a 2021 superhero film produced by Marvel Studios and is based on the Marvel Comics race of the same name. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film stars an ensemble cast including Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Salma Hayek, Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Brian Tyree Henry, Lia McHugh, Don Lee and Kit Harington. It is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and takes place after the events of "Avengers: Endgame".

The film tells the story of the Eternals, a race of immortal beings who have lived on Earth for thousands of years and have been tasked with protecting humanity from their enemies, the Deviants. The Eternals have been living among humans, keeping a low profile and influencing human history, but when the Deviants return, the Eternals must come together to stop them.

The film's diverse cast of characters adds to its appeal and represents a departure from the typical superhero movie. Each of the Eternals has their own unique abilities and personality, and the film does a great job of exploring their relationships and character arcs. For example, Angelina Jolie's character, Thena, is a fierce warrior who is torn between her loyalty to her people and her love for a human. Meanwhile, Salma Hayek's character, Ajak, is the leader of the Eternals and must make difficult decisions that affect the future of her people.

In addition to its diverse cast, "Eternals" is also notable for its stunning visual effects. The film's depiction of the Eternals' abilities is both beautiful and thrilling, and the action scenes are well choreographed and engaging. The film also explores the rich history of the Eternals and the MCU, and its connection to the larger universe adds depth to the story.

The film's exploration of themes such as love, loyalty, and identity is one of its strongest points. The Eternals must grapple with the weight of their immortality and the impact their actions have on humanity, and this adds a deeper layer of meaning to the story.

One of the most interesting aspects of "Eternals" is its exploration of the relationship between the Eternals and humanity. The Eternals have lived among humans for thousands of years and have influenced human history, but they have also kept their true nature hidden from the world. The film raises questions about the responsibility of powerful beings and the consequences of their actions.

The film's villain, the Deviants, are also a compelling aspect of the story. The Deviants are a race of beings who have been at odds with the Eternals for thousands of years, and their return to Earth poses a threat to humanity. The film does a good job of exploring their motivations and adds depth to the conflict between the Eternals and the Deviants.

One of the film's weaknesses, however, is its pacing. At times, the film feels slow and the dialogue can be a bit heavy-handed. Additionally, some of the plot points are predictable, and the film's conclusion feels a bit rushed.

In conclusion, "Eternals" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking superhero film that represents a departure from the typical superhero movie. Its diverse cast of characters and exploration of themes such as love, loyalty, and identity add depth to the story, and its connection to the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe adds excitement and intrigue. While its pacing can be a bit slow and its plot points predictable, "Eternals" is a solid addition to the MCU and is well worth watching for fans of superhero films and the MCU.