Is Arishem’s Judgment Day Inevitable? The Future of the Eternals and the MCU’s Cosmic Shift
The looming threat of cosmic judgment hangs heavy over the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Four years after the unsettling cliffhanger of Eternals, the promise of Arishem the Judge’s return to evaluate Earth remains unfulfilled, sparking debate among fans and raising questions about Marvel Studios’ plans. While initial reactions to the film were lukewarm, a growing appreciation for its ambitious scope and complex themes suggests a potential path forward – but will Marvel capitalize on it, or will this cosmic mystery fade into the background?
The Weight of a Celestial Promise
Eternals introduced audiences to the Celestials, ancient beings of immense power responsible for seeding life throughout the universe. Arishem, as the Judge, tasked the Eternals with protecting nascent civilizations, but also with allowing them to perish if they proved a threat to the cosmic order. The film concluded with Arishem abducting the minds of Sersi, Kingo, and Phastos to analyze humanity’s worthiness, promising a return to deliver his verdict. This cliffhanger, however, feels increasingly precarious as the MCU expands in new directions.
Why a Sequel Feels Increasingly Unlikely
Despite growing calls for an Eternals 2, Marvel Studios appears hesitant. The original film’s underperformance at the box office undoubtedly plays a role. Introducing ten new heroes in a single movie proved a challenge, hindering individual character development and potentially alienating audiences. However, dismissing the potential of the Eternals and the Celestials entirely would be a significant oversight. The cosmic side of the MCU, while present in films like Guardians of the Galaxy and Thor, hasn’t been fully explored, and the Celestials represent a unique and powerful force.
Beyond Eternals 2: Cosmic Avenues for Arishem’s Return
If a direct sequel remains off the table, several upcoming projects could provide a pathway for Arishem’s return. The potential for appearances in Thor 5, Doctor Strange 3, or Captain Marvel 3 exists, though these heroes already have established storylines. The real opportunity lies in Marvel’s planned shift towards the mutant and X-Men narratives following Avengers: Secret Wars. This is where the seeds of a truly epic crossover could be sown.
The A.X.E.: Judgment Day Adaptation
Marvel Comics’ 2022 event, A.X.E.: Judgment Day, presents a compelling blueprint for integrating the Eternals, X-Men, and Avengers into a single, universe-altering storyline. The comic centers around the Celestials’ judgment of Earth, triggered by the discovery of mutant resurrection protocols. The Eternals, realizing their true purpose as instruments of cosmic control, are forced to confront their creators and the implications of their existence. Adapting this storyline would not only resolve Arishem’s promise but also elevate the stakes for the entire MCU.
Imagine a scenario where the X-Men’s resurrection technology draws Arishem’s attention, leading to a cosmic trial with the fate of humanity – and mutantkind – hanging in the balance. The Avengers, caught in the middle, would be forced to choose sides, while the Eternals grapple with their loyalty to Arishem versus their growing connection to humanity. This crossover event, potentially unfolding in Phase 7 or beyond, could revitalize the Eternals franchise and deliver a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Stakes are Higher Than Ever
The decision to revisit or abandon the Eternals storyline will have significant ramifications for the future of the MCU. Ignoring the promise of Arishem’s judgment risks leaving a major plot thread unresolved and diminishing the impact of the Celestials as a cosmic threat. Embracing the potential of a crossover event like A.X.E.: Judgment Day, however, could unlock a new era of interconnected storytelling and elevate the MCU to even greater heights. The fate of Earth, and perhaps the entire universe, may depend on it.
What do you think? Will Arishem return to judge humanity, and if so, how will it impact the future of the MCU? Share your predictions in the comments below!
