Surviving the Unknown: The Impact of "The Eternaut"
In a unique new series, "The Eternaut," a group of friends faces an unexplained disaster in Buenos Aires. During a casual card game at a home, the power suddenly goes out, leaving them in darkness. Cellphones lose their charge, and an ominous snow begins to fall over the city, claiming lives with every touch. The friends grapple with survival as they realize the stakes are much higher than their own lives.
This show, which premiered on Netflix, combines science fiction with a deep exploration of human resilience. It quickly gained traction, climbing to the top of Netflix’s charts for non-English shows, showing its universal appeal. Netflix has already confirmed a second season, set to begin filming next year.
The roots of "The Eternaut" trace back to a graphic novel created by the late Héctor Germán Oesterheld in 1957, before he was forcibly disappeared during Argentina’s military dictatorship—an event that has forever marked the country’s history. With renewed interest in the original material, a U.S. publisher announced it will bring back an English translation that had previously gone out of print.
In Argentina, the show resonates powerfully, reflecting societal concerns amidst the leadership of far-right President Javier Milei. Martín Oesterheld, the writer’s grandson and a producer on the series, remarked that the show’s success has become more than just entertainment; it’s a cultural moment for the nation.
A Local Take on an Alien Threat
For years, the Oesterheld family declined multiple offers from Hollywood for an adaptation, fearing the story would lose its Argentine essence. They insisted on a production that captures the local flavor, staying true to the original intentions of Oesterheld.
Filming in Spanish with an Argentine cast, the series provides a distinctive perspective that contrasts with typical inauthentic sci-fi representations. Netflix heavily invested in the production, employing thousands and contributing significantly to the Argentine economy. As aliens wreak havoc in the city, viewers see relatable environments turned chaotic, reflecting a reality that hits close to home.
Themes of Resilience and Ingenuity
At its core, "The Eternaut" explores the reliance on creativity and community in the face of disaster. The characters adopt a mindset commonly associated with being Argentine: making do with what little you have. This reflects the struggles of a nation battered by years of economic hardship and military governance.
As President Milei implements significant budget cuts in various sectors, including the arts, the show speaks to the resilience of Argentine culture. Martín Oesterheld pointed out that the series highlights the power of solidarity during challenging times, echoing the belief that "no one gets through it alone."
A Reminder of Forgotten Histories
The launch of the series coincided with a renewed interest in the historical injustices faced by the Oesterheld family. Billboards around Buenos Aires now feature missing persons flyers including those of Oesterheld and his daughters—echoing the real-life horror behind the fiction.
Martín spoke about the generational trauma experienced by families affected by the military dictatorship. The show’s success has led to a resurgence of interest, motivating many to seek closure or information regarding their own lost relatives.
A Colombian Conversation
As "The Eternaut" captivates audiences, it serves as more than simple entertainment. It brings forth discussions around freedom, community, and the role of the state. The show leaves viewers with important reflections that apply not only to Argentina but resonate globally, as many nations grapple with similar issues.
Overall, the impact of "The Eternaut" extends beyond its plot, merging art with social commentary—and resonating powerfully amid Argentina’s evolving political landscape.
