Disney+’s X-Men ’97 concluded nearly two months ago, yet fans continue to debate the dramatic first season passionately. Reviving the beloved X-Men: The Animated Series, which aired from 1992 until 1997, this new series stays true to its 1990s roots while updating the story for a modern audience. Directors Emi/Emmett Yonemura (Batman: The Killing Joke, Gen: Lock, High Guardian Spice) and Chase Conley (Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Black Dynamite) shared insights with Deadline about the creative challenges and memorable moments that shaped the season.
X-Men ’97 explores the aftermath of Genosha’s fall, delving into the complex dynamics between mutants and humans and as the consequences of Professor Xavier leaving his team under the leadership of his arch-nemesis, Magneto.
Conley recounted his early childhood connection to Marvel in Morganton, North Carolina. Comics picked up during trips to the pharmacy inspired his artistic journey. “I had this natural proclivity for drawing… and right around then it aligned with X-Men: The Animated Series,” Conley shared with Deadline, attributing his career to the dynamic characters and artwork of that era.
Yonemura, With a background in Japanese animation and manga, Yonemura discovered American comics through X-Men: The Animated Series. This led to studying at The Kubert School and appreciating the depth of American comics. “Joe Kubert is just such a huge beginning influence for me,” Yonemura said, highlighting the significant impact of his education on his career in animation.
Episode five, featuring a controversial Rogue, Gambit and Magneto love triangle, became a fan favorite and is up for Emmy consideration, as stated by Deadline. Yonemura emphasized the importance of emotional storytelling, particularly in the heart-wrenching dance sequence between Rogue and Magneto. “We had to make that dance really sing… it’s got to make sense,” Yonemura explained. The episode’s success relied on the audience’s emotional investment, setting the stage for the destruction of Genosha.
As reported by Deadline, Conley discussed the intricate cameo appearances in episode ten, highlighting characters like Peter Parker and Daredevil. He aimed to depict the broader impact of the Prime Sentinels globally. “We wanted to show the widespread effect… We showed them in Wakanda, and we saw Black Panther ain’t having none of that,” Conley noted, emphasizing the diverse and far-reaching narrative.
According to Deadline, both directors faced significant challenges in creating emotionally resonant scenes. For Conley, balancing the A and B stories in the “Lifedeath” episodes was particularly demanding. Yonemura struggled with the final scene in episode five, ensuring it delivered the intended emotional impact.
A standout moment was Deathbird’s line calling Earth a “Milky Way Ghetto,” which resonated with fans and sparked widespread reflection. “It made me feel some kind of way, that’s how I knew it was a good line,” Conley said, appreciating the character’s boldness.
As X-Men ’97 continues to captivate audiences, the directors’ dedication to honoring the original series while introducing fresh, emotionally charged narratives ensures its lasting impact.