Amidst soaring anticipation and resounding applause from fans, the animated series X-Men ’97 has made its debut on the Disney+ streaming platform, bringing years of nostalgia-fueled hope and anticipation to a head.
Serving as a continuation of the now-classic X-Men: The Animated Series which aired from 1992 to 1997, this new installment brings forth a compelling blend of action, drama, iconic characters, and fresh takes from the Marvel Comics storylines.
It seems both fans and critics are loving the first two episodes of X-Men ’97. Rotten Tomatoes, a popular online review aggregator, is abuzz with acclaim for the series, heralding it as something truly exceptional.
#XMen97 is now Certified Fresh at 100% on the Tomatometer, with 25 reviews: https://t.co/vpdGTnw4KI pic.twitter.com/ePY2CJM4zi
— Rotten Tomatoes (@RottenTomatoes) March 20, 2024
Since the first trailer was released earlier this year, Marvel Studios finds itself basking in the glory of a new milestone as X-Men ’97 achieves the highest-rated title under its banner on Rotten Tomatoes. With recent reviews tallied, the series stands tall with a flawless 100% score, earning the coveted “Certified Fresh” status right out of the gate.
While the possibility of dissenting voices in the future remains, this stellar reception marks a remarkable start for Marvel’s latest animation venture – and it’s not just the critics that are giving X-Men ’97 the proverbial “two thumbs up”.
The two-episode premiere currently has a 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Older fans have noted how well the first episodes captured the feel of the original cartoon, while also injecting new character explorations that feel fresh.
Cyclops in particular was able to shine with his “boy scout” devotion to Professor Charles Xavier’s dream, while also showcasing the use of his trademark optic blasts. Older fans commented on social media such as X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit on how they missed this version of Scott Summers.
The perennial leader of the X-Men had been far less optimistic in the comic books and his live action versions have never been as competent, by comparison. Different takes on characters across continuities is generally a great way to keep things fresh, but sometime a particular approach just works, you know?
However, is X-Men ’97 a win for the overall Marvel Studios brand? It’s essential to note that X-Men ’97 exists outside the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Unfortunately, the MCU has been suffering big losses with mediocre to outright bombs in the past few years. The Marvels, in particular, was a massive disappointment, bringing in only $206 million on a nearly $300 million production budget.
Marvel Studios’ decision to revive the fan-favorite animated series was not without its conditions. Brad Winderbaum, head of streaming at Marvel Studios, disclosed in an interview that Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige greenlit the project under two conditions: retaining the original cast and securing the iconic theme song (yes, that X-Men theme running in your head right now).
The voice cast of X-Men ’97 sees a blend of returning favorites and fresh talents. Cal Dodd, Alison Sealy-Smith, George Buza, Adrian Hough, Lenore Zann, and Chris Britton reprise their roles from X-Men: The Animated Series.
Notable changes include Catherine Disher (who previously voiced Jean) as Dr. Valerie Cooper, Chris Potter as Cable, and Lawrence Bayne as X-Cutioner. Additionally, new talents such as Ray Chase, Jennifer Hale, AJ LoCascio, Holly Chou, JP Karliak, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Matthew Waterson, Ross Marquand, Giu Augustini, Gil Birmingham, and Eric Bauza join the ensemble.
Over the years, the X-Men franchise has seen various interpretations across both the big and small screens. From the acclaimed animated series to the hit-and-miss X-Men film adaptations by 20th Century Fox, the mutants have traversed a mixed bag of success and failure. X-Men ’97 comes just in time to serve as a prelude to the hotly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine live action film.
Are you ready to join the new mutant revolution? X-Men ’97 is currently streaming on Disney+, with a new episode released every week.
