The highly anticipated Marvel Animation revival of X-Men: The Animated Series, titled X-Men ’97, has finally presented fans with the first trailer. As nostalgia sweeps over ’90s kids, the trailer does leave burning questions about the plot.
Now that the initial hype of the X-Men ’97 teaser has passed, some fans are concerned about certain points revealed in the trailer. Why is Professor X declared dead when he went with the Shi’ar at the finale of the original cartoon? Why would the Professor name Magneto as his inheritor? Is that really Jean Grey or is it Madelyne Pryor? Why is Sunspot in the team instead of Colossus or Archangel?
The trailer for X-Men ’97 was released on various social media platforms, such as the official Marvel Studios X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Facebook accounts, and instantly kicked off several storms of speculation across them all.
To me, my X-Men.
Marvel Animation’s #XMen97, an all-new series, arrives March 20 on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/dymKMrncTp
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) February 15, 2024
The animated series picks up shortly after the bittersweet farewell in the original series finale, where Professor Xavier suffered a mortal wound. The trailer hints at Xavier’s demise, with scenes depicting a mourning world and a funeral procession.
However, ambiguity surrounds Xavier’s fate, leaving fans to question if he met his demise in space or if the X-Men orchestrated this apparent death. Tensions rise as Magneto steps into the spotlight, inheriting Xavier’s legacy and becoming the new headmaster of the Xavier Institute.
Magneto’s ascent is paralleled with a nod to the 1985 comic book event where he became Headmaster of the ‘School for Gifted Youngsters’ and the 2014 Uncanny X-Men storyline, “The Last Will and Testament of Charles Xavier.” As Magneto takes over the headmaster duties, the X-Men must adapt to their new leader, stirring anticipation for the challenges they’ll face in this revived series.
Human/mutant relations remain a central theme, echoing the serialized storytelling of the original series. Despite progress, glimpses of a memorial for Xavier and a resurgence of the Sentinels suggest that mutants still face hatred and fear. The introduction of a new adversary, the X-Cutioner, adds a layer of complexity, as this former FBI agent is determined to hunt down and eliminate mutants.
There are also brief action scenes showcasing the X-Men facing the Sentinels with innovative tactics, providing a glimpse into the enhanced battle sequences catered to a slightly older audience. The clip showing Gambit charging up Wolverine’s adamantium claws was a particular highlight, based on reactions from X-Men fans on social media.
A subtle Easter egg in the form of a Daily Bugle newspaper introduces the concept of the “Hellfire Gala.” While this event has ominous undertones in recent comic storylines, its significance in the X-Men ’97 universe remains uncertain.
The connection to the Hellfire Club and the return of characters like Emma Frost and Sebastian Shaw add intrigue to the unfolding narrative. Will this lead to the White Queen joining the X-Men as she did in the comic books?
The most unexpected twist comes with the revelation of Jean Grey’s pregnancy, raising questions about the complexity of Cyclops and Jean Grey’s family tree. The show’s merchandise hints at the inclusion of Madelyne Pryor, a Jean lookalike, and Mister Sinister as major villains, suggesting that the animated series will delve into the convoluted history of the Summers Family. Of course, this likely means the series will delve into the very dark “Inferno” and “Mutant Massacre” storylines.
X-Men ’97 also introduces changes to the roster, with Morph and Bishop becoming permanent members, and the debut of Sunspot. The return of Nightcrawler sparks curiosity about his potential expanded role, leaving fans to wonder if the animated universe will explore deeper into the rich source material.
On that note, where are Colossus, Archangel, Psylocke, and Iceman who were staple members of the X-Men Blue and Gold era? Many fans of the original animated series disliked the fact that they were relegated to guest stars. Colossus, in particular, only appeared in two episodes in the entire run of the animated series (“The Unstoppable Juggernaut” and “Red Dawn”).
As excitement builds for the upcoming revival, burning questions linger. How will Magneto’s leadership impact the X-Men? What role, if any, will the Hellfire Gala play in the storyline? How will the complex Summers Family saga unfold? X-Men ’97 promises to be a thrilling ride for both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
Are you prepared for the twists and turns in the convoluted saga of Cyclops and Jean Grey’s children? What other storylines from the Merry Marvel Mutants’ comic books in the last 20+ years will the series adapt? These and other enigmas are waiting to be answered in X-Men ’97 as we await its release on the Disney+ streaming service this March 20, 2024.
