Many animated series based on comics inspire comic book tie-ins. More often than not, these books are extraneous, serving no purpose other than making money off of fans of the show who are unwilling to invest time in the source material. Thankfully, this is not the case with X-Men ’97 #1. This new comic reads like a lost episode of the original X-Men Animated Series that never made it to air.
The intent of X-Men ’97 #1 is to bridge the gap between the original animated series and the new show on Disney Plus. Despite this, the story is easily accessible to newcomers who have never seen either show or read an X-Men comic. The base theme remains the same, however, with Mutant heroes defending a world that hates and fears them.
(Image Source: Marvel / Salva Espin)
The plot of X-Men ’97 #1 is standard stuff. The Merry Mutant heroes of Marvel must step in after the superstar singer Dazzler is abducted by the anti-Mutant terrorists known as the Friends of Humanity. This occurs before a memorial concert in honor of fallen X-Men founder Charles Xavier. However, even once Dazzler is rescued, there are still complications in store when another villain’s henchmen attack the concert.
Much like the X-Men ’97 show, the first issue of the comic is full of Easter eggs and shout-outs to the classic stories that inspired the show. Beyond featuring the show’s redhead version of Dazzler (and referencing her flirtation with Cyclops), there are nods to reporter Trish Tilby and Doctor Doom. The comic also introduces Dr. Valerie Cooper in a far less abrupt manner than the new cartoon did.
(Image Source: Marvel / Salva Espin)
Strangely enough, X-Men ’97 #1 is more accessible than the original X-Men cartoon and the follow-up. The Chris Claremont style of exposition is firmly in play throughout Steve Foxe’s script, with characters talking about things they should all know for the benefit of newcomers. This is all part of the charm of the original comics and cartoons, of course, such as when Rogue explains her powers while clothes shopping with Gambit.
(Image Source: Marvel / Salva Espin)
The art by Salva Espin mimics the style of the animated X-Men ’97 perfectly. The classic Jim Lee costumes are on display throughout, even when the characters should, in theory, be casually dressed. This makes it all the stranger when characters like Bishop (who could justifiably only have one outfit) are shown dressing up for a concert while Rogue and Gambit are in costume. Ah, but such is the charming inconsistency of the original X-Men cartoon.
(Image Source: Marvel / Salva Espin)
All of these factors combine to make X-Men ’97 #1 something special in terms of tie-in comics. Usually, comics of this sort are not of the highest quality. It is clear, however, that this book is as much a labor of love as the Disney Plus animated series. More importantly, it offers a sense of detail the show sometimes lacks, building on the continuity of the show’s universe.
Your enjoyment of X-Men ’97 #1 will depend on how much you enjoyed the original show and the follow-up series. If you want to see more of these versions of the X-Men or felt cheated that the new show didn’t show the early days of Jean Grey’s pregnancy, this comic will provide. It may also satisfy those looking for an easily accessible X-Men book while waiting for X-Men: From The Ashes to begin.
Score: 4/5
X-Men ’97 #1 is now available online and at comic shops everywhere.