X-Men ’97 is an animated series that continues the X-Men: The Animated Series (1992-1997). It is now produced by Marvel Studios through Marvel Animation, with Marvel Studios leader Kevin Feige serving as an executive producer. Created by Beau DeMayo, the series consists of 10 episodes, each with an average duration of 35 minutes. Disney+ released the series in mid-March, with the final episode airing on May 15, 2024.
The series’ plot picks up shortly after Professor Charles Xavier, the X-Men’s mentor, went to the Shi’ar planet and was presumed dead. The X-Men face a leadership crisis until Xavier’s will appoints his great enemy, Magneto, as his successor. Cyclops and his team are forced to accept this decision. Meanwhile, the team investigates the use of Sentinel technology by anti-mutant terrorist groups, uncovering a grand agenda aimed at destroying mutants and dominating humanity.
The production of this series is undoubtedly influenced by the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). After Disney acquired Fox Studios, several X-Men characters began appearing in various MCU films, such as Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, The Marvels, and Deadpool & Wolverine, which were released this year. Although X-Men ’97 does not explicitly connect to the MCU, it can easily be integrated into the multiverse concept. Avengers superheroes like Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Hulk, and Doctor Strange make several appearances in this series.
The story of X-Men ’97 is complex, potentially overwhelming new viewers due to the lack of character introductions or story exposition. The series combines action, politics, romance, and elements of the past and future. The conflict and intrigue of the old series are strongly felt, though new viewers might find some characters unfamiliar. Unlike feature films, characters in this series can appear and disappear, similar to comic books. The X-Men team, composed of dozens of superheroes, often works in groups divided into several subplots, which can make the story challenging to follow. However, the plot gradually becomes clearer, making it accessible to new viewers.
Not all subplots are likely to be audience favorites. Cyclops and Jean Grey’s storyline is dominant, complicated by a clone and their connection with Cable. Jubilee and Roberto’s teenage romance serves as a brief interlude without leaving a lasting impression. The chemistry between Rogue and Magneto is intimate and intriguing. Magneto’s presence is particularly strong, even more so than in feature films. The rivalry and sentimental relationship between Charles Xavier and Magneto, often depicted in films, is more exaggerated and striking in this animated format. Notably, the series does not hesitate to kill off prominent characters, adding a sense of high stakes and unpredictability.
X-Men ’97 brings nostalgia for fans of the old animated series while paving the way for future MCU developments. The ending hints at an exciting continuation, with the second season already produced and the third in the writing stage. This two-dimensional animated series is faster and easier to produce than 3D animation or live-action, which require extensive visual effects. Despite the current market fatigue with the superhero genre, X-Men ’97 proves that animated adaptations can still captivate audiences and provide fresh storytelling opportunities.
