The much-anticipated revival of the 1990s cult classic, X-Men: The Animated Series, brings a fresh take with X-Men ’97. Fans of the original will find themselves at the heart of this reimagined series, which is not just for kids but caters to those who grew up with the mutants. While it’s designed to appeal to a wider audience, including younger viewers, X-Men ’97 isn’t holding back on intensity or grit.
Director Beau DeMayo confirmed the inclusion of “a little bit of blood,” a nod to the comic book origins of the characters. The creators wanted to stay true to the violence and stakes that make Wolverine’s claws or Magneto’s powers feel tangible and dangerous. But don’t expect this to transform into an ultra-violent spectacle. The show finds a delicate balance—showcasing blood where it feels essential without overwhelming its viewers. For example, we’ll see the aftermath of Wolverine’s slashes, or battle wounds that hint at the pain and stakes without being gratuitous.
The fanbase for X-Men ’97 is a mix of generations, and while it retains its family-friendly nature, it’s clear the series respects the intelligence of older fans. The series returns with high-octane battles, using animation to push the boundaries of mutant action sequences while keeping the pace and energy of the original series. The combat scenes are fast and intense, making it feel like a real throwback to the visceral battles that the X-Men faced in the comics.
While blood may make a brief appearance in certain scenes, X-Men ’97 isn’t focused on gore. The series puts storytelling first, using these moments to emphasize the stakes, which is why the addition of blood doesn’t overshadow the overarching plot. It’s about consequences and realism in a world filled with extraordinary characters.
Incorporating the idea of family into the narrative, Nightcrawler poignantly states, “Blood is blood, family is a choice,” encapsulating the emotional depth X-Men ’97 intends to explore. This highlights the timeless theme of found family within the X-Men—a group of outcasts who band together for a greater cause. The show doesn’t shy away from heavier topics either, navigating everything from identity to loyalty, all while keeping the mutants relatable.
With X-Men ’97, the animators have struck a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. Blood may be present, but it’s the heart and action-packed energy that keep fans glued to their screens, much like the original series did three decades ago.