In an era saturated with 3D animations and live-action Marvel movies, X-Men '97, with its old-school animation style picks up where the original 90s series left off and is a much-needed breath of fresh air. With the first four out of 10 episodes of the debut season now available on Disney+, the verdict so far is surprisingly satisfying.
It has been nearly three decades since the original X-Men finale, which ran for five seasons from 1992 to 1997. For a generation of kids and teens, including myself, this was our gateway into the Marvel universe, which was nothing like the cinematic juggernaut that is the MCU today. The original X-Men holds a special place in fans' hearts as it is lauded as one of the best adaptations of the comics, even when compared to its later live-action counterparts.
One of the most delightful aspects of X-Men '97 is the return of original voice cast, including Cal Dodd as Wolverine, Lenore Zann as Rogue and Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, alongside the introduction of new talents like Ray Chase as Cyclops, taking over from the late Norman Spencer. This reunion adds an authentic layer of nostalgia to the series and instantly transports viewers back to the heyday of Saturday morning cartoons.
X-Men '97 begins one year after the events of its predecessor, which thrusts the X-Men into a series of new and dangerous challenges following the absence of their leader, Professor Charles Xavier. Cyclops steps into a leadership role, adding an intriguing dynamic to the storyline.
Over the years, we've witnessed numerous attempts to recapture the magic of beloved classics through adaptations, continuations, and sequels. X-Men '97, however, successfully recaptures the essence of what made the original so beloved in its initial run. The creators have managed to strike a delicate balance, maintaining the core elements that fans adore while infusing it with new energy and modern storytelling sensibilities.
What truly sets X-Men '97 apart is its ability to blend nostalgic aesthetics with cutting-edge animation technology. While the series retains a 2D animation style, it also incorporates modern design elements and visual effects that breathe new life into the action sequences. From the first episode where scenes such as the exhilarating rescue with Morph or Storm's creative use of her powers against Sentinels showcase visual effects that wouldn't really have been possible in the original.
Episodes 2 and 3 delve deeper into the narrative, focusing on Magneto's takeover of the X-Men and his subsequent trial at the United Nations. This storyline resonates with the original's exploration of mutant persecution. The pacing remains steady throughout, balancing plot progression with character development seamlessly.
X-Men '97 is not merely a nostalgic cash grab but a well-crafted story featuring beloved characters. The series pays homage to its roots while carving out a unique identity in today's landscape. As the first season unfolds, there is optimism that X-Men '97 will not only meet, but possibly exceed the lofty expectations set by its predecessor.
Overall, the new series offers a nostalgic but modern experience for fans old and new. The blend of classic charm, engaging storytelling, and updated visuals makes X-Men '97 a must-watch for anyone craving a superhero journey that honours the past while embracing the future. With promising episodes ahead, X-Men '97 proves that some legacies are timeless and worth revisiting for a new generation of viewers.
- X-Men ‘97
- Starring Matthew Waterson, Cal Dodd, George Buza
- Created by Beau DeMayo
- Now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar
