*This article does contain spoilers for X-Men ’97 episodes 1-3*
Like a cycle, it seems that retro is coming back in style. X-Men ’97 is an example of the neo-retro revival we’ve been witnessing in modern culture. The nostalgia is heart-warming. But all things come with a cost. This fossil revived with a dose of strife.
Though the name is referential, X-Men ’97 is a 2024 continuation of the animated series that aired from 1992 to 1997. In both name and aesthetic, the show is akin to a time capsule. While artistically impressive in remastering the ’90s aesthetic, it maintains the ’90s essence.
Immediately upon seeing the opening sequence, I was teleported to a childhood space. However, as an adult, the thematic scars of these nostalgic faces tell a different story.
Childhood Faces, Adult Spaces
Like the premiere of this show, these childhood heroes took me by surprise. The nostalgia of seeing their neo-retro faces unlocked memories. I could not hide how ecstatic I was to see Jubilee, Gambit and Beast. It was almost as if the original series never ended its run.
Though the initial shock of the show was nostalgic, the adult spaces were new. I cannot truly remember the story beats of the original run; however, as an adult, the revival’s story beats urge a different understanding.
X-Men ’97, while not overly adult, is not very childish in its themes. The show can and does, walk down some dark roads. In only three episodes, we’ve covered mutant trafficking, pregnancy and parenthood, purpose (both lost and found), discrimination, trauma and death.
As a child, it was never obvious how much X-Men dealt with ruin and redemption.
Ruin and Redemption
Realistically, unfortunate events befall even the best of us. Likewise, the worst of us attain redemption without partiality. Most of the characters are written with this truth. However, Storm and Magneto are shining examples.
Magneto, the archenemy of the X-Men, was a radical mutant revolutionary. His primary goal being the survival of mutant-kind, by any means necessary. Magneto was never impartial to the injustice faced by mutants. Therefore, violence and ruthlessness was never out of the question.
Upon Professor Xavier’s death, Magneto experiences a change of perspective. Begrudgingly, he desires to honor the dream of his deceased old friend, to work toward human-mutant coexistence. As of episode 3, this change of heart seems honest, and he allies with the X-Men.
Storm, however, faces ruin during a time she is needed most by her team. During Magneto’s trial at the United Nations conference for his crimes against humanity, the Friends of Humanity (FoH) terrorist group attacks. This radical group acquires anti-mutant weaponry from the scientist who created the Sentinels.
Storm, an omega-level mutant, instantly goes hero mode. She defends the defenseless and battles the radicals. Sadly, being caught off-guard, she is hit with a mutant-suppression chemical that renders her powerless — permanently. What follows is loss of purpose. Storm no longer feels that she belongs with the X-Men, citing her power as the glue connecting her to them. She even goes so far as to abandon the name Storm and leave the academy.
An X-istential Beast
As we approach the release of episode 4, our heroes are in a bind. Crippling drama and trauma cannot be processed. They are aware of the ramping pressure and attacks from opposing forces. Time off is not a given.
The show is very engaging. Not only is it pretty to look at, but the story also is given attention. The intro sequence is a welcome blast from the past. The character dynamics are innately interesting, given the nature of this well-established superhero team.
The pacing does not seem all too deliberate. However, this is not a powerful slight as the season is not even half-way complete. Therefore, there is time to see all the pieces come together in full display.
Episodes 1-3 scores: 8.5, 9.5 and 9
Favorite Quote: “I have wondered what it would be like to be human. It is a tempting daydream. But then I remember how my mutant gifts brought me to this mansion, to this family, to a sister.” – Storm to Jean Grey.
X-Men ’97 is available to watch only on Disney+ in the US
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