Eternals’ Deaf Hero Leads To Increased Interest In Learning Sign Language

Eternals‘ Deaf hero Makkari has created a rise in the number of people wanting to learn sign language. Released last week to very mixed critical reviews but generally better audience reviews, Eternals was able to pull in the second-best global box office opening of 2021, coming in just behind F9. The film tells the story of a group of immortal aliens known as Eternals who, after living in secret on Earth for thousands of years, must come out of hiding to defeat an evil force known as the Deviants.

Eternals marks several firsts for the MCU, both because it features the franchise’s first-ever sex scene, but also because it debuts Marvel’s first Deaf superhero, Makkari. Played by Deaf actor Lauren Ridloff, Makkari communicates with sign language and wields superpowers that include superhuman speed, strength, and reflexes. Many fans will recognize Ridloff from her role as Connie on The Walking Dead, who was introduced in the series’ ninth season in 2018.

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According to a new study conducted by Preply (via The Independent), the buzz around Makkari as Marvel’s first Deaf superhero has led to an increase in the number of people interested in learning sign language. The study cites a 250% increase in searches for “learn sign language for beginners” over the last year as Eternals‘ marketing campaign got underway. While the study does not include information about how many people actually started learning sign language, it does show that the film and Ridloff’s character have directly contributed to a significant rise in the number of people who are interested.

Ridloff herself has also seen a 550% spike in search activity since November 1st and searches for “first deaf superhero” have doubled since this time last year. Evidently, while the film may have failed to strike a chord with critics, Ridloff’s character has clearly had an effect on people. The introduction of Makkari is a major milestone for Marvel and, even if there isn’t a second Eternals film, it seems likely that Makkari will go on to appear in other MCU movies.

The rise in people looking to learn sign language shows just how powerful Marvel films can be today. By giving a platform to a previously under-represented group in film, Eternals has already had a positive impact on the world, regardless of how well the film actually works as an entry in the ongoing MCU saga. Hopefully, Marvel continues to feature under-represented groups of people in their future films, and that these casting decisions can also translate to, at the very least, a desire to learn more about different lifestyles, cultures, and disabilities. To watch Makkari in action, fans can check out Eternals, which is now playing in theaters across North America.

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Source: Preply (via The Independent)

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