Overview of X-Men ’97

Note: this is a spoiler-free review of the first two episodes of X-Men ‘97, which premiere on Disney+ on Wednesday, March 20.

X-Men: The Animated Series holds a special place in the hearts of Marvel fans, defining the mutant heroes for a whole generation. Many of us have nostalgic memories of watching the adventures of Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm, and the gang on Fox Kids. X-Men ‘97 brings us back to those carefree days, capturing the essence of the original series while offering a fresh take.

X-Men ’97 Plot and Characters

X-Men ‘97 serves as a direct sequel to the beloved animated series, continuing the story after Professor X survived an assassination attempt. Cyclops struggles to lead the team in his mentor’s absence while facing escalating tensions between humans and mutants and the return of Magneto. The show expertly balances honoring the past while inviting new viewers into the world of the X-Men.

X-Men ’97 Debut Trailer Images

X-Men ’97: A Blend of Nostalgia and New Stories

The first two episodes skillfully set the stage by building on the foundation of the original series while introducing fresh elements for new audiences. The show maintains the classic X-Men soap opera feel, exploring personal relationships alongside epic battles with a world that fears and hates mutants. The dynamics between characters like Wolverine, Cyclops, and Magneto are as engaging as ever, providing a mix of drama and high-stakes action.

X-Men ’97 Voice Cast and Animation

The voice cast in X-Men ‘97 delivers strong performances, combining returning favorites with new talent. The animation style of the series has been updated to look cleaner and more vibrant, utilizing 3D animation with a 2D shading effect. The action sequences are a highlight, showcasing the characters’ powers in ways that were limited in the original series. The show maintains a familiar aesthetic while embracing modern animation techniques.