“To me, my X-Men…”
Marvel has established a cache of strong animated fare that spans decades, predating the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the arrival of X-Men ’97, the highly anticipated continuation of the beloved ’90s series, X-Men: The Animated Series, the entertainment juggernaut returns to its roots.
I’m excited to report that avid fans of the original series won’t be disappointed with X-Men ’97. I had the privilege of screening the first three episodes, and I’m itching to watch more.
About X-Men ’97
Here’s a brief synopsis of the 10-episode first season per Disney:
“Marvel Animation’s X-Men ’97 revisits the iconic era of the 1990s as The X-Men, a band of mutants who use their uncanny gifts to protect a world that hates and fears them, are challenged like never before, forced to face a dangerous and unexpected new future.”
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The series stars a few returning performers from its predecessor and some new voices. Our voice cast includes Ray Chase as Cyclops, Jennifer Hale as Jean Grey, Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, Cal Dodd as Wolverine, JP Karliak as Morph, Lenore Zann as Rogue, George Buza as Beast, AJ LoCascio as Gambit, Holly Chou as Jubilee, Isaac Robinson-Smith as Bishop, Matthew Waterson as Magneto and Adrian Hough as Nightcrawler.
Honoring the Legacy
From the pilot to episode three, the ’90s series callbacks and Easter eggs are abundant. The Newton Brothers deliver big time on the score front, especially regarding the theme song. Save for a few modern flourishes, it’s the same opening number as The Animated Series. You’ll be instantly transported to 1992. Even the graphics accompanying said theme song are almost identical, lovingly paying homage to what came before. The ending credits are also a wonderful nod to the ’90s show.
As for the overall feel, X-Men ’97 embraces the original’s theatrical, comic-book vibe. Fun, cheesy dialogue abounds, complete with battle-ready corny puns and one-liners. It’s so perfectly ’90s. The show’s boisterous energy is infectious and delightful.
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Parallels
You don’t need to watch The Animated Series to understand the plot, but some context from it certainly helps, notably regarding the pilot parallels. For example, Jubilee takes center stage in the ’90s pilot as the new mutant on the block. In X-Men ’97 episode one, “To Me, My X-Men,” she helps Roberto DaCosta, aka Sunspot (voiced by Gui Agustini), find his footing and a home at the Xavier Institute. She also stops Wolverine from attacking Roberto in the Danger Room, referencing when she prevents him from charging at Gambit in the ’90s pilot.
Of course, the Sentinels, Boliver Trask and Henry Peter Gyrich play significant roles in both pilots. Additionally, Storm is the first mutant on the scene to battle assailants in both episodes.
Talented Voice Cast
It’s such a treat hearing the returning players, such as Lenore Zann, Cal Dodd, Alison Sealy-Smith and George Buza, reprise their roles. They don’t miss a vocal inflection or beat. The new cast members, especially Holly Chou and JP Karliak, also knock it out of the park. Dare I say it, but I prefer Karliak’s voice performance for Morph.
Everyone brings their A-game and a heaping helping of vim and vigor to their performances.
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The Narrative
The first three episodes delve into common X-Men themes of identity, belonging, discrimination, bigotry and bodily autonomy. Perhaps now, more than ever, these themes are wholly relevant and poignant. The series handles them with the same care as the original.
Story-wise, the stakes are at an 11 right out of the gate. The writers don’t let their foot off the narrative gas from beginning to end. It’s a lovely balance of rich character beats, high-octane action, cheesy humor and compelling storytelling. In addition, the animation is stunning. We get much cleaner lines and vibrant colors here.
These episodes are an absolute blast. It’s the perfect continuation of The Animated Series that honors its legacy and paves the way for exciting plot developments. Expect to be entertained, folks. I can’t wait to see where this narrative takes us.
X-Men ’97 streams new episodes every Wednesday on Disney+.
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What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
Bylines in: Tell-Tale TV, Culturess, Sideshow Collectibles, and inkMend on Medium.
Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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