"X-Men: The Animated Series" has become a meme sensation, but for many millennials, it was the doorway to Marvel's iconic world. Before the big-budget movies and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this show introduced mutants as a metaphor for marginalized groups, showcasing characters like Wolverine and Jean Grey.
The X-Men were missing from the MCU due to complex intellectual property rights until Disney's acquisition of Fox. Now, Marvel Studios, under Kevin Feige's leadership, is reintroducing them with "X-Men '97," a new animated series. Unlike the MCU, this show has the freedom to explore its own storyline without being tied to previous continuity.
Set after the original series, "X-Men '97" picks up with Professor X absent, leaving Cyclops to lead. However, the surprise twist comes when Magneto steps in as Xavier's chosen successor, promising a new direction for mutants. This change sets the stage for a series of thrilling adventures, including battles with Sentinels and Mr. Sinister.
The show's pace is rapid, cramming feature-film-worthy plots into 30-minute episodes. The animation style, reminiscent of the original series, adds to the nostalgic charm. While there's a nod to introducing a new mutant, the classic characters like Beast and Gambit steal the spotlight.
"X-Men '97" is a refreshing return to the X-Men's roots, offering a mix of old and new that sets it apart from the MCU. As we await their live-action debut, it's a treat to revisit the X-Men in their animated glory.
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