Chloé Zhao, the filmmaker of Eternals, seems to be dodging inquiries regarding a Phase 4 movie sequel.
Despite Eternals‘ unfavorable reviews from audiences and critics, a previous report claimed that a sequel was already in the works and had already been included in Marvel Studios‘ production schedule.
Additionally, a prior listing may have hinted at the sequel’s impending filming because Ma Dong-management Seok’s company, which represents Don Lee, who played Gilgamesh, stated that Eternals 2 is “scheduled to be created.”
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Director of Eternals Addresses Follow-Up Question
Chloé Zhao, the filmmaker of Eternals, was asked by The Hollywood Reporter (THR) if she was still interested in exploring a potential sequel in light of current reports.
THR: “Eternals 2 has been the subject of speculation for a time; are you still interested in pursuing that?”
Zhao gave a direct response to the query, stating just, “No comment.”
The varied reactions to Eternals do not seem to be enough to stop Zhao from working on a sequel. When questioned if she became frustrated by the audience response, the honoree director replied that “it’s practically impossible to make everybody happy” and that Eternals ‘ critiques were inevitable:
“I genuinely treasure and respect that each of us is so distinct, especially when you’re in Marvel and dealing with such a large audience. We are all so distinct from one another, and we are all evolving and developing daily, which is great. But, with a large audience, it is nearly impossible to make everyone completely satisfied because to do so would be to imply that everyone is the same. So I believe that [difference of opinion] is unavoidable, and you should just be true to the kind of picture you want to make, who you are, and the people you’re working with. Indeed, that’s all you can do to enjoy yourself. The rest is beyond your power to change.”
Zhao’s words are consistent with her previous laudatory remarks about Marvel Studios, in which she noted the “infinite resources to make your idea come true:”
“With smaller movies, you might have more freedom because you can essentially do whatever you want, but there are also restrictions when you wrap at three in the morning and have to drive your actors home because they don’t have access to transportation. For a movie this enormous, hundreds of people must move alongside you whenever you move. Decisions thus take a little longer to make. You can travel, you have time, and there are a variety of other ways to be free, but you also have limitless resources at your disposal to realize your dreams.
Chloé Zhao previously spoke on the potential for a sequel to the film in an interview with The Playlist, stating that “[she] would be back in a second” and concluding with a coy “we’ll see.”
Eternals 2: Will Chloé Zhao Return as Director?
Chloé Zhao’s most recent direct statement regarding returning to Eternals 2 might be a sign that she’s evading Marvel assassins since a “no comment” usually indicates that a person is involved in something but isn’t yet permitted to talk about it.
Despite the negative reviews, it is still unclear if Zhao would be open to returning for another go at directing an Eternals adventure.
The Marvel director appears at ease with the negative responses based on her words, and it is already clear that she intends to return.
It’s possible that coming back to helm a follow-up would be her atonement and give the cosmic franchise fresh vitality.
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