In the midst of all the hype around new releases, there’s one sci-fi series that has quietly made its way to the top of the Netflix charts, and it’s causing a stir. If you’re a fan of thrilling, post-apocalyptic tales, The Eternal One (or El Eternauta) is a series you absolutely need to check out. It’s a captivating mix of suspense, survival, and political commentary, and if you’re still recovering from the tension of The Signal, this one will keep you on the edge of your seat.
A Post-Apocalyptic Tale with a Global Message
Imagine yourself on a warm summer evening in Buenos Aires, enjoying the calm when, suddenly, a snowstorm begins to fall. It seems innocent enough at first—until you realize that this snow is deadly. Anyone caught outside will perish instantly. This is the chilling premise of The Eternal One, a series that takes the viewer through a dystopian world where humans are fighting not just for survival but for their very existence.
The series, which launched in April 2025, has already gained significant attention for its unique storyline and gritty atmosphere. Based on the 1957 graphic novel by Héctor Germán Oesterheld and Francisco Solano López, it stays true to its roots while giving it a modern twist for a new audience. As the survivors of this brutal snowfall band together, they not only face nature’s wrath but also an alien invasion—creating a world where the stakes are as high as they can get.
The Iconic Comic Meets Netflix
The Eternal One is not just another post-apocalyptic story—its historical and cultural context gives it a unique depth. The original graphic novel, written during a time of political unrest in Argentina, mirrored the fears of a society teetering on the edge. The themes of resistance and survival resonated with readers in the 1950s and are now reimagined for today’s audiences. While the story has shifted through different mediums, the core message of human solidarity against oppressive forces remains unchanged.
When it comes to the adaptation, Netflix didn’t just copy the plot; it took the essence of the original story and injected it with the same intensity and urgency. The cold, desolate streets of Buenos Aires, now covered in a deadly layer of snow, provide the perfect backdrop for a fight against both nature and invaders from another world. The characters are relatable and ordinary, and it’s this “everyman” aspect that makes their struggle so gripping.
Engaging Sci-Fi with Emotional Depth
What sets The Eternal One apart from other sci-fi thrillers is the human aspect of the story. This isn’t just a show about survival—it’s a commentary on the fragility of society and the importance of unity in times of crisis. The creators use a minimalistic approach to special effects, focusing on the emotional depth and the characters’ struggles, making the series feel both intimate and massive in scope.
The central character, Juan Salvo, portrayed by Ricardo Darín, isn’t just fighting for his life—he’s fighting for the survival of the community. The series poses difficult moral questions: Should they stay and try to survive, or venture out into the unknown? How far will they go to protect what remains of humanity? These dilemmas aren’t just set against a backdrop of aliens and snowstorms but are rooted in the political struggles of a country in turmoil. As Darín points out, this isn’t just a fight for survival—it’s about the collective effort to face a threat that no one can tackle alone.
Not Just Sci-Fi: A Timeless Tale of Resistance
While The Eternal One draws heavily from the sci-fi genre, it transcends the typical expectations of alien invasions and apocalyptic scenarios. The show reflects the same themes of resistance and solidarity that made the original graphic novel a classic, while modernizing it for today’s political climate. The series doesn’t shy away from drawing parallels between the past and the present, providing a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of power and oppression.
This series isn’t just a great pick for sci-fi lovers—it’s a deep, emotional experience that leaves a lasting impression. With the combination of stellar performances, a tense narrative, and an atmosphere that feels both haunting and hopeful, The Eternal One is a must-watch for anyone looking for a gripping, thought-provoking series.
