The world was stunned in 2021 when Disney announced that it would continue the popular series of X-Men: The Animated Series with X-Men ’97. The decision came in the aftermath of huge streaming numbers for the original animated show on Disney+. Realizing that there was a market for a continuation, Disney decided to create a series as if it were being made in 1997 and was the next season for the original X-Men show. In this episode we discuss the first season of X-Men ’97. We discuss the various aspects of the plot and how that feels as a continuation of the original series and how it works to develop themes that resonate today. We talk about the vocal performances, music, and art style and whether or not those live up to our expectations of the original animated show. We also debate MCU tie-ins, Captain America’s position, Rogue’s relationships, and the depictions of various characters.
The five-minute controversy this weeks asks if we think that it’s wise for Disney to make a deal with Seven Bucks Productions after Dwayne Johnson has been such a toxic influence in Hollywood lately.
This week Beth, Mike, and Eric join the cast.
Show Notes:
42cast episode about the original X-Men: The Animated Series
Article about Seven Bucks Productions getting first look rights with Disney
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The 90’s was a time of great innovation in animation. The medium had been dominated by stand-alone episodes and simple storylines for decades. In the 90’s even the traditional networks’ programming pushed the envelope. More series with serialized storytelling were being told. An overall movement advanced to tell stories with more grown-up themes and utilizing plots and humor that would appeal across an entire family instead of just to kids. In this episode we discuss the cartoons of the 90’s. We talk about some of the themes and recurring elements throughout the decade. We also give out some of our favorite animated series of this era.
The 42cast is proud to welcome star of the stage and screen,
Thirty years ago, a new animated series would take the world by storm. It would quickly become the most watched series on Saturday mornings and giving the fledgling Fox Kids programming block a distinct win. The series was a win for Marvel as well, introducing the X-Men characters to a generation of viewers and catapulting the affiliated comics to the height of their success. In this episode we take a look back at 1992’s X-Men series. We discuss the role that gender diversity had in the series’ success. We also talk about the use of theater trained actors rather than traditional voice-over artists. We also opine on the role that the scripting played in the series. Along the way we discus the animation, the characters, and why we feel that the legacy of this series has endured.
We are proud to welcome back
The 42cast is proud to welcome
As we round out the year, we’re joined by