From conceptualization to execution: 5 takeaways from 'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97' is streaming on Disney+ starting Wednesday, May 22, 2024. The documentary goes behind the scenes to trace the revival of the X-Men series after 30 years.
Disney+ releases episodes of its documentary series 'Assembled' to provide in-depth looks into the making of various Marvel films and series, offering viewers a comprehensive insight into the world of Marvel and its filmmaking expertise.
This time, the documentary focuses on the acclaimed series 'X-Men '97', an animated series that aired on Disney+ and won over critics and audiences alike. 'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97' provides an in-depth look from the conceptualization of the series to its execution and release.
Here are 5 things we learned from the documentary.
Conceiving the idea of 'X-Men '97'
Before delving into the execution, the documentary deeply explores how the creators of 'X-Men '97' conceived the idea of reviving a series that had created a sensation thirty years prior.
The documentary delves deeply into the creation of the original 'X-Men' animated series and explores how it almost didn't get made because no one believed in it.
'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97' reveals why the creators of 'X-Men '97' decided to make the series animated and set it in '97 to maintain continuity.
The creators of the series shared insights into what captivated them about 'X-Men' as kids and expressed their desire to recreate that entire experience for contemporary audiences.
Getting the original creators and performers on board
To maintain the vibe of the show similar to the original, the makers brought on board the original creators of the series, Larry Houston, Julia Lewald, and Eric Lewald, as consultants.
They shared their experiences of creating the original show and discussed how it came into being after being an idea that was rejected throughout the 1980s.
'X-Men '97' also brought in the original voices of its characters, including Jennifer Hale, Alison Sealy-Smith, Cal Dodd, J. P. Karliak, Lenore Zann, and George Buza, who all returned to reprise their original roles.
Ray Chase was cast as Cyclops after the passing of Norm Spencer, who portrayed the character in the original series. The actors recount their casting experience in the original series and bring the characters back thirty years later.
Keeping the story personal and realistic
What makes 'X-Men' apart from other series is its proximity to reality and how the characters' stories are personal and relatable as they face the hardships of life together.
In 'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97', the creators of the show emphasize their intention to keep the premise very grounded and true to life.
The idea behind this was to establish a connection with the audience and allow them to see themselves in one of these characters.
The essence of the show revolves around finding ways to overcome life's inevitable hardships by sticking together and fighting as one.
The makers also make it a point to keep the storytelling organic and not make the series easier for the audience to understand. They talk about not underestimating the audience's intellect.
Adapting to technological advancements
The major difference between the original series and 'X-Men '97' lies in the evolution of technology. The creators revealed that they aimed to maintain the technology and editing style similar to that of the original series.
The creators aimed to maintain the authenticity of the original series while utilizing technology to enhance the emotional impact in certain scenes. The deliberate use of film grains was a touch intended to give the show the look and feel of the 90s.
Music and Nostalgia
The show exudes nostalgia, much of which can be attributed to the title sequence and theme music, which were recreations of the original 'X-Men' theme and sequence.
Nostalgia plays a crucial role in the creation of 'X-Men '97'. The creators hold a deep attachment to the original series and aim to recreate its magic for those who grew up watching it, offering them the chance to experience that same magic once again.
X-Men '97 Trailer
'Marvel Studios' Assembled: The Making of X-Men '97' is streaming on Disney+.
