In the heart of Buenos Aires, a chilling transformation unfolds in the Netflix series "El Eternauta," which premiered in 2025. The show, created by Bruno Stagnaro, adapts the iconic Argentine comic by Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López, capturing the essence of a narrative that has resonated with audiences since its original publication in 1957. The series follows Juan Salvo, portrayed by acclaimed actor Ricardo Darín, as he navigates an apocalyptic landscape blanketed in a deadly snow that brings chaos and uncertainty.
Set against the backdrop of a Buenos Aires transformed by an inexplicable snowfall, the series begins with Juan and his friends engaged in a casual card game. Little do they know, this seemingly normal evening is about to be shattered as the snow begins to fall, marking the start of a harrowing journey of survival. Stagnaro, who initiated the project in 2022, has crafted a six-episode season that not only pays homage to the original comic but also updates its narrative for a contemporary audience.
In this adaptation, Juan's wife, Elena, played by Carla Peterson, becomes a pivotal character. As the snow descends, she sends WhatsApp messages to Juan that he will never see, highlighting a growing disconnection between them amidst the chaos. This emotional thread deepens as Juan's primary mission becomes reuniting his family in a city overtaken by fear and death. The series has been praised for its visual storytelling, employing 60 locations—25 authentic spaces and 35 digital scenarios—to recreate the universe of Oesterheld.
The first episode effectively establishes tension while remaining faithful to the spirit of the comic. However, it also introduces narrative licenses that modernize the story to fit the year 2025. The visuals evoke memories of disaster films, reminiscent of Roland Emmerich's "The Day After Tomorrow," as the characters grapple with their new reality. The snow, initially harmless, soon becomes a harbinger of doom, with citizens confined to their homes and bodies littering the streets.
As the plot unfolds, the second episode introduces Charly, a disturbed neighbor who adds to the mounting tension. The third episode sees Juan trying to reconnect with his closest friends, primarily Alfredo Favalli, portrayed by César Troncoso. Their camaraderie is tested as they navigate a world filled with both human and alien threats. The fourth episode reveals that the true enemy is not a nation but rather a group of strange creatures, heightening the stakes and intrigue.
Critics have noted the series' ability to weave in subtle social commentary. The characters are depicted as resilient and passionate, with moments of humor and camaraderie amidst the horror. As the series progresses, viewers witness the psychological toll the situation takes on the characters, with erratic behavior and paranoia becoming increasingly common among survivors. This exploration of mental manipulation adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, keeping audiences engaged.
One of the most captivating aspects of "El Eternauta" is its portrayal of female characters. Unlike the original comic, which featured a more passive female role, the adaptation gives women a strong voice and agency. Elena emerges as a determined figure, willing to do whatever it takes to protect her family, even if it means risking her life. This shift not only modernizes the story but also reflects a broader trend in contemporary storytelling that values diverse perspectives.
As the season draws to a close, the narrative builds toward a climax filled with suspense and unanswered questions. Clara, Juan's daughter, reappears under mysterious circumstances, raising suspicions about her true nature. The final episode leaves viewers with a chilling revelation: the enemy is not merely physical but a force capable of manipulating minds. This twist adds depth to the story, inviting speculation about the implications for humanity's survival.
Despite its successes, some critics argue that the series may not fully capture the essence of the original comic. However, the adaptation's commitment to maintaining the spirit of the source material while updating it for modern audiences has resonated with many viewers. The production team, including designers Eugenia D’Alessio, Mariano Cukar, and Marcelo Martínez, utilized over 590 tons of salt and cellulose to create the tangible and hostile environment of Buenos Aires, further immersing viewers in this dystopian world.
In a recent interview with Forbes, Darín hinted at the possibility of a second season, noting that the adaptation has only scratched the surface of the original comic's rich narrative. "We still have the second part of El Eternauta ahead of us. I think we're going to aim higher!" he stated, generating excitement among fans eager for more.
As the first season concludes with a mix of wonder and uncertainty, "El Eternauta" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. It bridges the gap between generations, introducing a new audience to a cultural icon while respecting its legacy. The series has not only captivated viewers with its thrilling narrative and visual spectacle but has also sparked conversations about the importance of resilience, community, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
In a world where the familiar can quickly turn into the unimaginable, "El Eternauta" serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found in unity. As fans await news of a second season, the anticipation builds, leaving viewers eager to explore the depths of this hauntingly beautiful adaptation.
