'X-Men '97' Review: Disney+ series isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's hands-down the best Marvel show yet
Contains spoilers for 'X-Men '97'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: With just one episode left in its first season, 'X-Men '97', Marvel Studios’ revival of the beloved 1990s 'X-Men: The Animated Series,' stands out as the best Marvel mutants adaptation yet.
Building on the foundation of the original, the new series polishes rough spots and explores storylines previously untouched. Fans worldwide have embraced the revival, finding it both faithful to expectations and potentially even better than the '90s classic.
The X-Men were absent from the MCU due to complicated rights issues until Disney bought Fox. 'X-Men ‘97,' Marvel Studios’ first X-Men project, is led by Kevin Feige. This show introduces the X-Men independently, separate from existing MCU stories.
Despite ex-writer Beau DeMayo being fired, he completed work on the upcoming second season. Set at the end of the 1990s, the series honors nostalgia while appealing to new viewers. Being separate from MCU continuity allows 'X-Men ‘97' to explore unconventional storylines while staying true to comic book roots.
'X-Men '97' shines light on characters often sidelined in other adaptations
'X-Men '97' reminds us that the X-Men stories are about more than just Wolverine. While Wolverine is still important, the live-action films often focus too much on him. 'X-Men: The Last Stand' especially suffered from this, sidelining characters like Cyclops. But 'X-Men '97' is different.
The show gives time to multiple characters, not just Wolverine. Storm, for example, gets a spotlight after losing her powers and regaining them with the help of Forge.
Rogue's story is also compelling, dealing with her past and her feelings for Gambit. She seeks revenge after the Genosha massacre, encountering characters like General Thunderbolt Ross and Captain America.
Cyclops is brought back to the forefront, showing his leadership and struggles. His emotional journey, including sending his son to the future for a cure and dealing with Jean and her clone, is central to the series. 'X-Men '97' does justice to characters often overlooked in other adaptations.
'X-Men '97' takes advantage and embraces the digital era of streaming
The original 'X-Men: The Animated Series' faced limitations due to its network and timeslot on FOX Kids, airing on Saturday mornings with a TV-Y7 rating. This meant avoiding edgy content like explicit language or violence. 'X-Men '97' benefits from being on Disney+, allowing for a TV-14 rating, and catering to its now-adult audience.
While not as mature as 'Invincible,' 'X-Men '97' doesn't need to censor itself for a younger audience. This allows the show to stay true to the comic book source material and avoid feeling watered down.
Now, characters like Wolverine can use their abilities authentically, as seen in the last two episodes. 'X-Men '97' aligns more closely with the original comics, offering a more mature take.
'X-Men '97' teases a much bigger Marvel animated universe
In 'X-Men '97,' viewers can spot various Marvel characters, Easter eggs, and references, highlighting its connection to the broader Marvel universe. Each episode offers treats for Marvel fans.
For instance, in 'Tolerance is Extinction, Part 1', Bastion collaborates with Baron Zemo and Victor Von Doom for Operation Zero Tolerance and his Prime Sentinel plan. The episode concludes with a thrilling appearance by Spider-Man, updating his design from 'Spider-Man: The Animated Series.'
Unlike in the 1990s X-Men show, where Spidey was only shown in silhouette, here he makes a full appearance. This crossover mirrors the one between Spidey and the X-Men in their '90s animated series, with the same voice actors.
Many fans view these crossovers as precursors to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, showing how successful the interconnected narrative format can be
'X-Men '97' elevates the superhero genre with social commentary
Visually, 'X-Men '97' is a treat with its fluid animation and dynamic action sequences, seamlessly blending the nostalgia of the original series with modern animation techniques.
The return of original voice actors lends authenticity to the characters, while newcomers like Roberto da Costa inject fresh energy into the ensemble.
What truly sets 'X-Men '97' apart is its fearless exploration of complex social issues. By tackling themes of prejudice, discrimination, and trauma head-on, the series elevates the superhero genre to new heights, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the world we live in today.
From Magneto's haunting past to the X-Men's ongoing struggle for acceptance, each storyline resonates with real-world relevance, inviting viewers to reflect on the parallels between fiction and reality.
While some may find the breakneck pace of 'X-Men '97' overwhelming at times, its bold storytelling and engaging character arcs keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From the stoicism of Cyclops to the wisdom of Storm, each member of the team is given room to shine, contributing to a rich tapestry of mutant heroism.
In conclusion, 'X-Men '97' is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it's a bold reimagining of a beloved classic, blending old-school charm with contemporary relevance.
With its thrilling action, complex characters, and timely themes, the series sets a new standard for animated superhero storytelling, proving that some stories truly are timeless.
'X-Men '97' trailer
8 episodes of 'X-Men '97' are exclusively streaming on Disney+
