In case you haven't heard yet, Marvel Studios' Eternals makes a surprising reference to one of DC Comics' flagship superheroes Superman, and to some fans, it feels as if the studio is breaking the fourth wall with it. In the film, Phastos' kid Jack tells Ikaris that he saw him on television shooting laser beams just like Superman. Richard Madden's character then proceeds to tell the kid that he doesn't wear a cape, alluding of course to the fact that the Man of Steel sports his red flowing cape.
Director Chloé Zhao takes full credit for the surprising DC reference, saying that it's her way of paying tribute to the iconic comic book superhero. Now, in case you were wondering what Marvel's reaction was when they found about about the idea, Zhao said that she didn't get any form of pushback most especially from the higher-ups.
In an interview with Pure Break Films Actu, Zhao revealed that she didn't have to do much explaining when it came to the idea of her making that surprising Man of Steel reference. In fact, she said that Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige was pretty "cool" with it. On the subject of Superman potentially existing in the MCU, she added that "he's everything you want him to be."
Also Read: Eternals Director Explains Decision to Make Batman and Superman MCU Canon
It's actually not the first time a Marvel film has namedropped a hero from DC's roster. If you may recall, in the original Sam Raimi Spider-Man film, Aunt May mentions Superman during a conversation with Peter Parker. Earlier in the film, Parker shouts the word "Shazam" as he was trying to release his organic spider web so it's not something entirely new. Still, the idea of the Man of Steel, or any heroes from Marvel's "rival" for that matter is a huge deal to fans because I guess it's the closest thing we'll ever get to a crossover between the two franchises.
Marvel Studios' Eternals is now screening in cinemas.
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!