X-Men 97: Apocalypse Echoes Through Time and the series Levels Up
Marvel animated series of the 90s were staples of every child hood. Evenings after school it was run home and watch X-Men as quickly as possible to see what would happen next. For many as well who have become fans of the characters the animated series from 92 became a strong starting point for their fandom.
Now we have the continuation series titled X-Men 97 which has just premiered their second season with three episodes. Episode one which sees half the team in the future was a solid start but a step back in a lot of ways. It felt predictable despite featuring stellar animation. It didnât feel like the quick paced start we needed. That's not to say it is weak as it was still very enjoyable. There were such high expectations for this storyline in particular and it just felt slightly underwhelming.
Episode 2 was the exact opposite of Episode 1. Intense story, which heavily features Jubilee as she becomes a member of X-Force. Her powerset was on full display and it was stunning to behold in animation. Her desire to find a way that did not include violence added morality to a story line that is heavy with consequences. Each time period must play their role in helping to stop Apocalypse from rising and making Cable and Jubilee the two most important characters in this episode really elevated the time travel plotlines. It showcases just how much Nathan Summers aka Cable is important in this battle.
The final and third episode of the premiere brings us all the way back to ancient Egypt where we see the other half of the team taking on En Sabah Nur. The name En Sabah Nur translates to âFirst Oneâ as he is the very first known mutant. He does later become known as Apocalypse and as Xavier explains here is the most formidable foe of the X-Men. There is a lot of world building in this episode and another major villainous tease. While these episodes felt lighter on the action compared to season one it was definitely heavy on broadening the world. It is much needed to say the least even if it does at times sacrifice the action for explanation.Â
Season One was very good. Season Two is already on the right track. All they have to do now is fully flesh out this story and stick to the landing. Which is easier said than done in a lot of modern stories especially in the comic book adaptation genre. Marvel has played at this storyline before ultimately choosing a different path with the upcoming Avengers films. There is a lot of potential here for this to become the best story a Marvel product has pulled off to date. If they are able to do so, it also serves as a redemption for the prior failed attempts. In the coming weeks we shall see how this inevitably turns out. As with the storyline, time will tell us if the story was the one we deserved or if that one exists in a different timeline.










