5 Ways ‘Eternals’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

The Eternals (2021) burst onto the Marvel Cinematic Universe with high expectations. Its grand story, diverse cast, and bold visuals aimed to redefine superhero films, but not all of it has stood the test of time. Some parts feel dated or out of touch, while others still shine brightly years later.

This list dives into why The Eternals has both stumbled and soared since its release. From narrative choices to character depth, we’ll explore five ways it hasn’t held up and five ways it remains a standout.

Overloaded Plot (Aged Poorly)

The Eternals tries to pack too much into one film. It juggles a sprawling cast, ancient history, and cosmic stakes, leaving little room for focus. The story jumps across timelines and characters, which confuses viewers. Key moments, like the team’s internal conflicts, feel rushed or underdeveloped. This cluttered approach makes the film feel messy today. Audiences now prefer tighter narratives, especially in superhero films where clarity drives emotional impact. The ambition was bold, but the execution hasn’t aged well against leaner, more focused Marvel projects.

Stunning Visuals (Aged Masterfully)

The Eternals’ cinematography remains breathtaking. Shot on location with natural lighting, the film’s visuals feel grand yet grounded. From ancient Mesopotamia to modern cities, every frame pops with beauty and scale. The cosmic scenes, especially those involving the Celestials, still look awe-inspiring. Years later, the film’s visual style holds up against newer blockbusters. Its commitment to practical locations and minimal CGI overuse gives it a timeless quality. Few superhero films match its bold, artistic look.

Weak Character Arcs (Aged Poorly)

Many Eternals lack compelling personal journeys. Characters like Sprite and Druig get minimal development, leaving their motivations unclear. The ensemble cast, while talented, struggles to shine when spread so thin. Their emotional stakes often feel flat or forced. Today, audiences expect rich, relatable character arcs, even in ensemble films. Compared to newer Marvel projects with stronger character focus, The Eternals’ thin arcs feel like a missed opportunity that hasn’t aged well.

Diverse Representation (Aged Masterfully)

The Eternals broke ground with its inclusive cast. It features heroes from varied backgrounds, genders, and cultures, including a deaf superhero, Makkari, and an openly gay hero, Phastos. This diversity feels authentic, not tokenistic, and resonates deeply with viewers. The film’s global perspective is a strength. Inclusivity remains vital in modern cinema, and The Eternals still feels fresh in this regard. Its bold casting choices continue to inspire and set a standard for representation in blockbusters.

Uneven Tone (Aged Poorly)

The Eternals struggles to balance its epic scope with intimate moments. It swings between heavy philosophical themes and light Marvel humor, creating a jarring experience. The tonal shifts disrupt the film’s flow, making it hard to stay invested. Some scenes feel out of place entirely. As audiences now gravitate toward consistent storytelling, this uneven tone stands out more. Newer films handle tone better, making The Eternals’ inconsistency feel dated in comparison.

Ambitious Themes (Aged Masterfully)

The Eternals tackles big ideas like purpose, morality, and humanity’s place in the universe. It asks tough questions about loyalty and sacrifice, which elevate it beyond typical superhero fare. The Celestials’ role adds a cosmic weight that feels unique in the MCU. These themes spark reflection. Years later, these bold ideas still resonate. The film’s willingness to explore complex questions keeps it relevant, especially as audiences crave deeper narratives in blockbusters.

Forgettable Villains (Aged Poorly)

The Deviants, the film’s main antagonists, lack depth. They’re generic monsters with little personality or motivation, making them forgettable. Their role in the story feels secondary, overshadowed by the Eternals’ internal drama. This weakens the film’s stakes. Modern superhero films thrive on compelling villains, and the Deviants don’t measure up. Compared to nuanced antagonists in newer projects, the Deviants feel like a relic of less inspired storytelling.

Strong Ensemble Chemistry (Aged Masterfully)

The Eternals’ cast brings undeniable charm. Despite the crowded roster, their interactions feel warm and lived-in, especially between Sersi, Ikaris, and Kingo. The actors’ natural chemistry grounds the film’s loftier moments. Their banter and emotional beats shine through. This chemistry remains a highlight today. The cast’s ability to feel like a dysfunctional family keeps the film engaging, even when the plot falters, and holds up against newer ensemble films.

Dated CGI in Action Scenes (Aged Poorly)

Some action sequences haven’t aged well. While the visuals are stunning overall, certain CGI-heavy fights, like those with the Deviants, look clunky now. The effects lack the polish seen in later Marvel films, and the choreography feels repetitive. This pulls viewers out of the experience. With advancements in CGI and action design, these scenes feel outdated. Audiences now expect seamless effects and dynamic fights, making these moments a weak point.

Timeless Emotional Core (Aged Masterfully)

At its heart, The Eternals is about love and connection. Sersi and Ikaris’ romance, Phastos’ family life, and the team’s loyalty carry real emotional weight. These human elements ground the cosmic story, making it relatable. The film’s focus on relationships hits hard. This emotional depth keeps the film relevant. As audiences continue to seek heartfelt stories, The Eternals’ core remains a powerful draw, aging beautifully in a genre often driven by spectacle.

What’s your take on how The Eternals has held up—share your thoughts in the comments!