Episode seven of Marvel’s X-Men ’97 places us back in the immediate aftermath of Genosha. While the team struggles with survivor’s guilt in the remains of the mutant utopia, Rogue pilots a solo mission in search of justice. Unfortunately, this quest for revenge unveils a perilous threat, pitching the X-Men into a fight for their lives ahead of the three-act finale.
Directed by Emi Yonemura and written by Charley Feldman and JB Ballard, “Bright Eyes” is a gutwrenching episode exploring themes of loss, grief, and vengeance. The writing continues to be incredible, crafting strong emotional scenes from each character. Viewers can connect to the various forms of grief displayed, making these characters more than just mere animated heroes, but fully formed three-dimensional human beings.
The first half is pretty somber, relying heavily on Genosha and Rogue’s mission. However, the second half is full-on action, introducing the hands behind the Genosha genocide and a new mutant threat. The animation is brilliant delivering elements of body horror.
The episode also expands the world where these X-Men exist with three jaw-dropping cameos. For those fans whose entry point to these characters was the cinematic universe, things will feel like home as these characters appear onscreen. Their appearances could hint at future interwoven narratives.
We also receive two reveals near the end of the episode that shift the narrative in a brand new direction. One of the reveals is a character voiced by the incredible Theo James. A mystery to the X-Men, this character’s motives are vague at best, but will soon come into full view.
Episode seven, “Bright Eyes” is anything but bright. With its wrought emotion, great action sequences, and excellent Marvel easter eggs, it’s the perfect calm before the storm of this season’s final three episodes.