In the world of superhero cinema, Marvel and DC have long been considered rivals. While both franchises have cultivated their own dedicated fan bases and styles, there has traditionally been an unspoken rule that neither crosses into the other’s territory. However, director Chloé Zhao’s Eternals challenged this unwritten rule by including not one, but two references to iconic DC heroes, Superman and Batman, within a Marvel film. While Zhao’s decision stirred some controversy among die-hard Marvel fans, it earned her respect from DC enthusiasts who saw it as a tribute to their beloved characters. This article delves into why Zhao chose to honor DC heroes in Eternals and how this decision reflects her vision for a more inclusive and interconnected superhero universe.

Over the years, the rivalry between Marvel and DC has significantly diminished, with both franchises focusing on creating their own unique cinematic experiences. While some fans may still engage in debates over which universe is superior, many have come to appreciate both for their distinct styles and narratives. Yet, despite a few subtle nods here and there—like Deadpool’s playful jabs at DC—there has been a general tendency to avoid direct references to the rival franchise within the films themselves. This approach maintained a clear separation between the two universes, avoiding any potential confusion among fans.

However, Eternals broke this pattern with several direct references to DC characters, sparking intrigue among viewers. The most notable of these references was to Superman, made through the character Ikaris, played by Richard Madden. Ikaris is a powerful, god-like figure with abilities strikingly similar to Superman’s, including super strength, flight, and the ability to shoot laser beams from his eyes. Zhao’s decision to address this similarity directly in the film was seen as a bold move.

In a scene from Eternals, Phastos’ son, upon meeting Ikaris, refers to him as Superman, noting his superhero-like qualities and his laser-shooting eyes. Ikaris, with a slight smile, clarifies that he does not wear a cape, a playful acknowledgment of his resemblance to the Man of Steel. This moment stood out for fans who were accustomed to Marvel avoiding any direct comparison to DC’s characters.

In an interview with Empire, Chloé Zhao shared her thoughts on why she chose to include these references in Eternals. She explained that she wanted to embrace the similarities between Ikaris and Superman rather than ignore them. “I take responsibility for that,” Zhao said. “I just believe we all should live in one big happy family. And also, you know, we can talk about the elephant in the room – which is that Ikaris [Madden] reminds people of Superman.” By openly acknowledging the parallels between the characters, Zhao not only paid homage to the legacy of Superman but also made a case for a more harmonious coexistence between Marvel and DC fans.

Zhao went on to explain that she viewed the superhero genre as a shared mythology that spans cultures and generations. She emphasized that numerous talented filmmakers have brought Superman to life through their own modern interpretations. “There are many brilliant filmmakers who’ve brought Superman to the screen in their own modern interpretation of this beloved mythology that exists in many cultures,” Zhao remarked. This perspective aligns with her vision of superheroes as universal symbols that transcend corporate boundaries.

In addition to the Superman reference, Zhao’s Eternals also included a nod to another beloved DC character: Batman. In a light-hearted moment, Gilgamesh, played by Ma Dong-seok, comments that Kingo’s assistant, Karun, resembles Batman’s faithful butler, Alfred. This subtle reference, while brief, further demonstrated Zhao’s intention to acknowledge the cultural impact of DC’s heroes within her film.

For Zhao, these references were more than just clever Easter eggs; they were a way to celebrate the history and influence of superhero films as a genre. “So I just felt it’s great to pay tribute, it’s great to acknowledge these iconic interpretations of Superman,” Zhao said. Her approach suggests a shift in how filmmakers can view superhero cinema—not as competing entities but as part of a larger tapestry of storytelling that honors each other’s contributions.

While Zhao’s decision to include these nods to DC heroes was met with some skepticism among Marvel fans, who saw it as blurring the lines between the two universes, it was warmly received by many DC fans. For them, it was a sign of respect from a Marvel film, an acknowledgment of the influence that characters like Superman and Batman have had on shaping the superhero genre. It showed that even within the competitive landscape of blockbuster filmmaking, there is room for mutual appreciation.

Moreover, Zhao’s comments suggest a broader philosophical stance on storytelling. She views superhero stories not as isolated or exclusive to one studio but as a collective narrative that belongs to everyone. By weaving these references into Eternals, Zhao subtly argued for a more united fandom—one that can appreciate the contributions of both Marvel and DC to the cultural zeitgeist.

While Eternals was not without its flaws and faced mixed reviews from critics and fans alike, Zhao’s inclusion of DC references did spark conversations about the possibility of more open nods and crossovers in the future. Could there be a time when Marvel and DC might collaborate on a project, bringing their heroes together on the big screen? While it remains unlikely in the current landscape, Zhao’s gesture at least opens the door for more imaginative possibilities in the future.

The references to Superman and Batman in Eternals were subtle yet impactful, hinting at a more inclusive superhero universe where fans can celebrate the strengths of both franchises. Zhao’s decision to break the mold and openly honor DC heroes in a Marvel film demonstrates her courage as a filmmaker and her commitment to a more united storytelling culture. Even though she may have faced backlash from some Marvel loyalists, her approach has undoubtedly earned her respect among DC fans and perhaps even opened the door for future collaborations or friendly nods between the two cinematic giants.

As superhero films continue to evolve and expand, Zhao’s decision to honor the legacy of DC within the Marvel universe could serve as a blueprint for more inclusive and interconnected storytelling. By recognizing the contributions of both Marvel and DC, fans can appreciate the rich tapestry of superhero narratives that have come to define modern cinema. And in doing so, they can move closer to Zhao’s vision of one big, happy family—a universe where heroes from different backgrounds, franchises, and stories can coexist and thrive together.