Eternals: Celebrating Middle-Aged Female Superheroes Breaking Hollywood Norms

Eternals, the latest Marvel blockbuster directed by Chloé Zhao, marks a significant shift in Hollywood’s portrayal of women, especially those over 40.

This film defies the industry’s longstanding ageism by putting middle-aged female superheroes at the forefront, showcasing their strength, wisdom, and power in a way that is rarely seen in mainstream cinema.

Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie Lead the Charge

Salma Hayek, 55, and Angelina Jolie, 46, take on leading roles as Ajak and Thena, respectively. Hayek’s Ajak serves as the leader of the Eternals, guiding the team with her regal presence and unmatched authority.

Jolie’s Thena, on the other hand, is depicted as a fierce warrior with a commanding presence, demonstrating that age does not diminish a woman’s ability to perform physically demanding roles.

Their performances in Eternals are a stark contrast to Hollywood’s usual treatment of actresses over 40, who are often relegated to secondary roles or cast as mothers to much younger protagonists.

Challenging Hollywood’s Ageism

The decision to cast Hayek and Jolie in such powerful roles is not just a win for them but also a victory for representation in Hollywood.

The film industry has long been criticized for its ageist practices, where women are often deemed “too old” to play certain roles after reaching their late 30s or early 40s.

For instance, Maggie Gyllenhaal, at 37, was once considered “too old” to play the love interest of a 55-year-old male actor.

In Eternals, however, Hayek and Jolie are not only present but central to the plot, leading their team and making critical decisions that drive the narrative forward.

Chloé Zhao’s Vision for Diversity

Chloé Zhao, the 39-year-old visionary director of Eternals, is a key figure behind this groundbreaking shift. Zhao aimed to create a truly diverse cast, not just in terms of race and abilities but also in age.

Her commitment to diversity is evident in the inclusion of 43-year-old Lauren Ridloff, who plays Makkari, Marvel’s first deaf superhero.

Zhao’s approach to casting middle-aged women in powerful roles sends a strong message that aging is a natural and beautiful part of life, and that women of all ages deserve to be seen as capable and strong.

Breaking Boundaries with Middle-Aged Superheroes

While Eternals has received mixed reviews, its success in elevating middle-aged women as superheroes cannot be understated.

The film challenges the traditional norms of Hollywood, where younger actresses often overshadow their older counterparts.

By placing Hayek and Jolie in roles that require both physical prowess and emotional depth, Eternals sets a new standard for how women over 40 can and should be portrayed in film.

Eternals and the Rise of Middle-Aged Female Superheroes

The representation of middle-aged female superheroes in Eternals is a refreshing and necessary change in Hollywood’s portrayal of women.

With Salma Hayek and Angelina Jolie leading the charge, the film proves that age does not define a woman’s ability to lead, fight, and inspire.

As Hollywood continues to evolve, Eternals stands as a beacon of progress, highlighting the importance of diversity not just in race and gender, but in age as well.

This film is a testament to the fact that middle-aged women are not only relevant but are essential to the future of cinema.