X-Men '97 Really Frustrated Me... (Series Review)

Summary

The video script discusses the mixed reception of 'X-Men 97', a series praised for its attention to Marvel's source material but criticized for its pacing and narrative inconsistencies. The reviewer appreciates the character development of Cyclops and Jean Grey, as well as the animation quality. However, they express frustration with the overstuffed plot, rushed storylines, and lack of character consistency, particularly with Sunspot and Rogue. The script also questions the show's themes and handling of Magneto's character, suggesting a bias from the writer.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The speaker is discussing their mixed feelings about the 'X-Men 97' series, acknowledging that their opinion may be unpopular among fans.
• 📝 The speaker had high expectations for 'X-Men 97' as a continuation of a beloved cartoon and was initially very excited about the series.
• 🔥 The series has received much praise, but the speaker believes it has significant flaws, especially in its narrative structure and pacing.
• 🌟 The speaker highlights positive aspects, such as the reinvigoration of Cyclops and Jean Grey's characters and the voice acting.
• 👎 However, they criticize the handling of certain storylines, like Storm's 'Life Death' arc, which they felt was rushed and lacked emotional impact.
• 🧩 The series is described as 'overstuffed,' trying to adapt too many comic book storylines into a short season, leading to pacing issues and underdeveloped plots.
• 🤔 The speaker questions the logic behind certain character decisions, such as Magneto's sudden change of heart and the lack of consequences for his actions.
• 🔄 There's inconsistency in the show's themes and character development, with some plotlines and character arcs feeling abandoned or forgotten.
• 🎭 The speaker suggests that the show's creators may have been influenced by their personal preferences, rather than maintaining consistency with the original series or comic source material.
• 📉 The speaker predicts that while the show is currently praised, its flaws may become more apparent over time, potentially diminishing its rewatch value.
• 💡 The takeaway emphasizes the need for balance in adapting source material, respecting the original while also ensuring narrative coherence and character consistency.

Q & A

What is the main criticism of 'X-Men 97' presented in the video?

The main criticism is that 'X-Men 97' is overstuffed, trying to adapt too many comic book storylines and original content into a short 10-episode season, resulting in pacing issues and an incoherent narrative.

How does the reviewer feel about the handling of Cyclops and Jean Grey's characters in 'X-Men 97'?

The reviewer appreciates the reinvigoration of Cyclops as a dynamic character and the handling of Jean Grey, noting that the voice actors did a fantastic job and that their storylines were well-executed.

What are some of the positive aspects of the show mentioned by the reviewer?

Positive aspects include the animation quality, the character development of Cyclops, Jean Grey, Nightcrawler, and Gambit, and the show's adherence to the comic book source material.

Why does the reviewer believe 'X-Men 97' might not age well?

The reviewer believes the show might not age well due to its numerous flaws becoming more apparent over time, and the initial hype around the show wearing off.

What issue does the reviewer have with the character development of Sunspot and Rogue?

The reviewer finds Sunspot's and Rogue's character development inconsistent and their storylines poorly handled, with significant plot points and character motivations not making sense or being resolved.

How does the reviewer view the handling of Magneto's character and his actions in the show?

The reviewer criticizes the show for making Magneto too sympathetic and for not properly addressing the consequences of his actions, suggesting that the writer's bias may have influenced this portrayal.

What does the reviewer think about the pacing of 'X-Men 97'?

The reviewer argues that the pacing of 'X-Men 97' is a significant issue, with the show feeling rushed in some parts and dragging in others, due to the overwhelming amount of content crammed into a short season.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the show's themes and their consistency?

The reviewer finds the themes of the show to be inconsistent and sporadic, with the narrative pushing certain ideas in one episode and then abandoning them in the next.

Why does the reviewer believe that 'X-Men 97' is not the best representation of the X-Men on screen?

The reviewer believes that 'X-Men 97' is not the best representation because it lacks coherence, has pacing issues, and is heavily influenced by the writer's personal preferences rather than a balanced approach to storytelling.

What does the reviewer suggest as a better alternative to 'X-Men 97'?

The reviewer suggests that previous X-Men shows like 'X-Men Evolution' and 'X-Men 92' might be better alternatives as they were more consistent in their storytelling and character development.

How does the reviewer feel about the potential for a future season of 'X-Men 97'?

The reviewer hopes for changes in the next season, such as a streamlined narrative and a more balanced approach, but expresses skepticism based on the current season's issues.