ADVANCED SPOILER FREE REVIEW: Eternals #1 – Only Death Is Eternal

This dynamic creative team gives us an invitation to the world of the Eternals in the very first issue. This is an invitation I’m more than thankful to accept as it opens readers to a side of Marvel we rarely see. Kieron Gillen takes this rare opportunity with the Eternals to demonstrate his skills of world building. We are able to get a peek into their culture that has existed thousands of years through the eyes of our lead character Ikaris. 

During this issue, Gillen is able to carefully craft together a more concise definition of Eternals and Deviants that guides us to a better understanding of their dynamics. We get to explore the connection between the two. This important lore sets up a clearer idea of who the Eternals are for readers who may not be as familiar, or maybe even a refreshment for older readers. 

Esad Ribic is able to beautifully capture body movement throughout the panels. Facial expressions alone, it leaves a haunting effect that makes the reader curious as to what Ikaris or another character is thinking. Through a focus with Ikaris or other familiar Eternals, Ribic is able to showcase and demonstrate the range of their artistic ability. 

The coloring by Matthew Wilson gives a delightful addition to this issue. There are moments when the lighting from the sunlight gives an alluring touch to the scene. Wilson’s coloring and Cowles’ lettering are a powerful addition to Ribic’s beautiful art that when together brings these characters to life before our very eyes.

I’m excited to see more of this artistic combo in future issues.