Hold onto your mutant genes, folks! The X-Men ’97 season finale just dropped, and it’s more electrifying than Storm during a bad hair day. As a lifelong X-Men fan and animation enthusiast, I can confidently say this episode sets a new gold standard for superhero cartoons. Let’s dive into why this finale has me more excited than Cyclops at a laser tag tournament.
Phoenix Rising: Action Sequences That Soar
First things first: the action sequences in this episode are nothing short of spectacular. When Jean Grey emerges as the Phoenix, it’s a visual feast that would make even Galactus say, “Wow, that’s intense!” The animation team deserves a standing ovation for crafting scenes that are both visually stunning and emotionally impactful. It’s like they’ve figured out how to animate goosebumps!
Music to Mutant Ears
The background music in X-Men ’97 has been consistently fantastic, but the finale takes it to another level. The score during Magneto’s revival scene is so epic, it could make Juggernaut stop in his tracks. Composers Andy Grush and Taylor Stewart have created a soundtrack that doesn’t just complement the action – it amplifies it, making each moment feel truly legendary.
Cameos Galore: A Marvel Fan’s Dream
If you’re a Marvel comics aficionado, this episode is like a “Where’s Waldo?” of superhero cameos. From Spider-Man to Doctor Strange, the show manages to seamlessly integrate these characters without overshadowing our beloved X-Men. It’s a tantalizing glimpse into a unified Marvel universe that has fans more excited than Deadpool at a chimichanga festival.
Cliffhangers and Comic Connections
True to form, the finale leaves us with a cliffhanger that’s more intriguing than one of Professor X’s ethical dilemmas. The time-travel twist and the introduction of a young En Sabah Nur (aka Apocalypse) open up a world of possibilities for season 2. Could we see the return of Wolverine’s adamantium claws? Or perhaps the birth of Onslaught? The comic-accurate storytelling has been a highlight throughout the series, and this finale proves the writers know their X-Men lore better than Beast knows biochemistry.
Setting a New Bar for Marvel Animation
X-Men ’97 hasn’t just met expectations; it’s Fastball Special-ed them into the stratosphere. With its combination of nostalgia-inducing style and modern storytelling techniques, this series has reinvigorated the X-Men brand for a new generation. It’s proof that when done right, animated superhero shows can be every bit as compelling and sophisticated as their live-action counterparts.
As we eagerly await season 2, one thing is clear: X-Men ’97 has made believing in the animated mutant cause easier than ever. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be rewatching this finale until my eyes mutate into TVs.