Is the actress in Eternals deaf? This question has been buzzing around among fans and critics alike since the release of the Marvel movie. Eternals, directed by Chloe Zhao, features a diverse ensemble cast, including actress Angelina Jolie, who plays the character Sersi. The deaf aspect of her character has sparked discussions about representation and accessibility in the film industry.
Eternals, a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), follows a group of ancient beings known as the Eternals who have been living among humans for thousands of years. Sersi, portrayed by Angelina Jolie, is one of the main characters in the film. Her deafness is a significant part of her identity and is portrayed with respect and sensitivity. The movie showcases her using American Sign Language (ASL) and lip-reading as a means of communication, which is a refreshing change from the usual portrayal of deaf characters in mainstream cinema.
The decision to make Sersi deaf was not arbitrary. According to Jolie, the character’s deafness was inspired by her own experiences with deafness in her family. “I’ve had a lot of experience with deafness, and I’ve seen how it affects people’s lives,” Jolie said in an interview. “I wanted to make sure that Sersi’s deafness was an integral part of her character and not just a side note.”
The portrayal of Sersi’s deafness in Eternals has been praised for its authenticity and sensitivity. The film’s writers and directors worked closely with deaf consultants to ensure that the character’s deafness was portrayed accurately. This attention to detail has led to a more inclusive and accessible representation of deaf individuals in the MCU.
However, the decision to make Sersi deaf has also raised questions about the portrayal of deaf characters in the film industry. Some critics argue that the deaf aspect of Sersi’s character is a tokenistic attempt to diversify the MCU. They believe that the film could have done more to explore the challenges and triumphs of being deaf in a world dominated by hearing individuals.
On the other hand, supporters of the film argue that Sersi’s deafness is a positive representation of deaf individuals and their experiences. They point out that the character is not defined solely by her deafness but is a multifaceted individual with a rich background and complex relationships with other characters. This portrayal challenges the stereotypes often associated with deaf people in cinema.
In conclusion, the question of whether the actress in Eternals is deaf is not just about the character’s authenticity but also about the representation of deaf individuals in the film industry. While some may argue that the portrayal is tokenistic, others believe that Sersi’s deafness is a positive step towards more inclusive and accurate representation. Eternals has sparked an important conversation about the representation of deaf individuals in cinema, and it remains to be seen how this conversation will evolve in the future.
