Whether Eternals 2 will ever happen is still a lingering mystery in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but director Chloé Zhao has now made her position clear. Looking back on the 2021 film, Zhao discussed its deeper themes. She also shared her hope to continue the characters’ stories, even though Marvel Studios has not confirmed any plans for a sequel.
Chloé Zhao is interested in directing Eternals 2
Chloé Zhao has opened up about Eternals, its deeper mythology, and whether she wants to return for a sequel. While the 2021 film set up several major storylines for the future, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige said in 2024 that “there are no immediate plans for Eternals 2.” This left fans unsure if the characters would ever return to the MCU.
Speaking to ScreenRant during the press tour for her new film Hamnet, Zhao responded to a question about bringing the celestial beings back to the MCU by saying, “I would love that!” She elaborated on her philosophical approach to the material and explained that she always envisioned Eternals as a story about gods grappling with humanity. This perspective clarifies why the 2021 film felt so distinct from other MCU entries.
“Look, you are right, and you understood it. It is about a pantheon of gods discussing the nature of humanity and ultimately their judgment. Which is what Arishem said, ‘I will be back for judgment.’” She continued, “The reason why those brief plays existed is for humanity to see how the gods are seeing us, so we could evaluate how we were as a part of this cycle of the universe. Are we doing a good job? Are we kind to each other? Are we getting to know ourselves well enough?”
She added that MCU films act as modern myths. This makes them a fitting place for the philosophical questions she wanted Eternals to explore. Zhao concluded, “So, I would love to bring them back and have more discussion about the world we live in. I am really proud of it.”
It has been four years since the film’s theatrical release, and Marvel Studios still has not confirmed a sequel.
