X MEN '97: SEASON ONE
Starring: Ray Chase, Jennifer Hale, Alison Sealy-Smith, Cal Dodd, J.P. Karliak, Lenore Zann, George Buza, A.J. LoCascio, Holly Chou, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Matthew Waterson, Ross Marquand, Gui Agustini, and Adrian Hough
Creator: Beau DeMayo
QUENTIN
If you read my review for Invincible: Season Two, you’ll know that I’ve given up on that show, and X-Men ’97 played a notable role in that decision. The truth is that X-Men is everything that Invincible wants to be but mostly fails at. The story is extremely layered, featuring numerous well-developed characters and subplots that feed into the core narrative without feeling like extraneous diversions. It’s action-packed, emotional, vibrant, relevant, and referential, managing to succeed on every front without the need for overlong episodes or a split season like Invincible. Sure, nostalgia could be a factor, but X-Men is amongst Marvel’s best offerings since Endgame.
NICK
Like many, I grew up with X-Men: The Animated Series, so it holds a special place in my heart. The moment I started Episode One and heard that theme music, I was overtaken with nostalgia, further taken back to my childhood as I made my way through each episode. The animation, the character versions, the voice work — it’s firing on all cylinders. I’m not sure it’ll land the same for those new to the series, but it will hit for those familiar. It may be some time before we get to see the X-Men enter the MCU, but X-Men '97 will scratch that mutant itch.
AMARÚ
X-Men ‘97 brought me back to my childhood Saturday mornings, yet aged to gracefully fit modern day. From its modernized animation, to the returning voice-cast and reaffirmed commitment to its themes against prejudice, the show still resonates 24 years after its titular timeline. The action and character-work superbly highlight the extraordinary team dynamics, and not just the ever entertaining Cyclops vs. Wolverine battles. Unlike most X-Men content since the show last ended, every member, new and old, are provided depth and substance to push forward an extremely mature and compelling storyline. I can feel the love that was put into this revival, and that love created utter perfection.
KATIE
I did not watch the original X-Men: The Animated Series, but this in no way impeded my enjoyment of X-Men'97. I love the live-action X-Men films, for better or for worse, and it's such a fun experience to see the superhero ensemble in such a well-crafted, compelling story. I was blown away by the vibrant quality of animation that lends itself so well to the scale of the mutant’s powers, the epic fight sequences, and surprisingly mature themes and social commentary. The voice cast is also fantastic, giving deeply emotional and often genuinely moving performances.
