Chloé Zhao Says Marvel Saw Eternals As Low Priority Before Trusting Her Vision

Overview

• Zhao says Eternals “was not high on their priority list,” describing it as a unique IP on Marvel’s list of potential projects before she signed on.
• She recalls Feige telling her that no one asked for the film, emphasizing that the studio trusted her enthusiasm to carry it forward.
• The director notes she was in contention for Black Widow but withdrew because it did not feel like the right story for her.
• Eternals debuted in 2021 to largely negative reviews and finished its U.S. theatrical run with $164.9 million, becoming the first MCU film labeled rotten on Rotten Tomatoes.
• Recent coverage reports no clear movement on a sequel, with observers noting Marvel has referenced Eternals elements elsewhere without signaling a return to the team.