X-MEN is the most recognizable set of characters to come out of Marvel. Characters like Wolverine, Gambit, Storm, Cyclops, Rogue and more are instantly recognizable creations from the minds of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee.
The animated series which ran for five seasons in the nineties showcased many of the characters mentioned above in its 76 episodes. This wasn’t just another Saturday morning cartoon, this was a mature-themed show for kids and young adults. The original television series deals with many social issues, including divorce, religion, health scares (AIDS) and even feelings of loneliness and depression. The show is a topic look at what viewers were dealing with at that time.
It is entertainment, but also a way of helping viewers not feel so alone and gives access to information that many viewers(kids) wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing with their parents or teachers.
Although the original X-MEN animated show is a time capsule of that generation, many of the themes it deals with are still prevalent in our society today.
So what better time to reenergize this cast of characters and bring them back for a new series which is entitled X-MEN ’97? The new series picks up right where the other one left off.
Go back in time before 5G internet, Tik Tok and cellphones (well at least the ones we know of today). Relive a moment in time with a group of animated friends that will entertain, but also discuss some deep issues that also make the audience think.
We were privy to the first three episodes of X-MEN’97 and wow, generations new and old are in for a treat. besides the action and back and forth between Wolverine and Cyclops, there are some big surprises. We’re not going to spoil any of those here if you haven’t already clamoured to Disney+ to watch the first two episodes. Instead, we’ll just give you a vague review of what to expect from this series as a whole (basing this off the first three episodes that is).
Does X-MEN’97 feel like the classic animated show, yes and no. The instantly recognizable intro to the show is perfectly matched with the original, but updated to high-definition. The song that starts the show even gets an update, which will still send chills down your spine with excitement.
The character designs are spot on, possibly a little more anime-themed, but these are the X-MEN we all know and love. The show even has some of the original voice actors back in the fold, while also bringing in some new talents.
Personally, watching these episodes was almost like they had been stored in a time capsule frozen in time. The feel, the look, the sound, it’s all there. Fans will embrace this series, especially if the original was a staple viewing decades ago.
These first three episodes are intense, some of what happens may shock the X-MEN elite but also bring in a whole new generation. The stories are well-written, the characters are believable and the twists are welcomed, at least by this viewer.
There’s a sense that anything can happen with this new show and that is exciting in itself. Going into an episode and thinking oh he’s safe, she’s safe takes away from any anticipation and entertainment also. It sort of does the opposite of building interest or making the audience go, “I need to watch”. One thing that is sure, good or bad X-MEN’97 is sure to elicit many discussions among fans.
With X-MEN’97 Marvel/Disney has re-energized this material that was due for an update. Everyone who works on X-MEN’97 should give themselves a pat on the back. The show is worth watching and isn’t just throw-away superhero fun. It like its predecessor will engage your emotions and hopefully open your eyes to some social issues. This is a perfect homage to Jack Kirby and Stan Lee, the characters they created are timeless and ready to entertain a whole new generation.
Marvel Animation’s X-Men ’97, an all-new series, arrives March 20 on Disney+
