Moviefone Editorial

Tag: x-men-97

  • Jake Schreier in Talks for Marvel’s ‘X-Men’ Movie

    (L to R) Director Jake Schreier and Wyatt Russel on the set of Marvel Studios' 'Thunderbolts*'. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2025 Marvel.
    (L to R) Director Jake Schreier and Wyatt Russell on the set of Marvel Studios’ ‘Thunderbolts*’. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2025 Marvel.

    Preview:

    • Director Jake Schreier is in early talks for Marvel’s ‘X-Men’ movie.
    • Neither Marvel nor Disney will comment.
    • Michael Lesslie wrote the script.

    No matter whether you’re sticking with calling it ‘Thunderbolts*’ or have followed Marvel’s switch to –– spoiler alert for the three people living in remote locations who haven’t learned the news –– ‘The New Avengers,’ the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe movie is a hit.

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    ‘ThunderNewVengers’ (we just came up with it, have Marvel call us if they’re interested in adopting it for a modest fee) garnered the best reviews since movies such as ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ and did a lot to win over fans who have been worried that the Marvel behemoth may have seriously lost its way.

    It opened top of the domestic box office last week with $74 million, and made more than $160 million worldwide. Parent company Disney is hoping for a strong hold for its second weekend, and is now making moves to stay in business with one of the people responsible.

    Director Jake Schreier, who oversaw the new movie, is, via Deadline’s sources, in talks to direct one of the more anticipated future films from Marvel’s stable.

    Yes, Schreier, assuming he makes a deal, would be bringing the mutant team known as the X-Men formally to the MCU.

    Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Thunderbolts*’

    Will Jake Schreier make a new Marvel deal?

    Jake Schreier on the set of Marvel Studios' 'Thunderbolts*'. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2025 Marvel.
    Jake Schreier on the set of Marvel Studios’ ‘Thunderbolts*’. Photo by Chuck Zlotnick. © 2025 Marvel.

    The trade site cautions that the process is still at a crucially early stage, but Schreier, who previously worked on the likes of Netflix series ‘Beef’ and movies including ‘Robot & Frank’ and ‘Paper Towns’, has reportedly been passing on other work so as to keep himself available for the prime mutant gig.

    Marvel apparently formed a solid, positive working relationship with the filmmaker –– who weathered strike delays and other challenges –– and he’s now in line to potentially be a trusted pair of hands for the MCU.

    He’d join the likes of the Joe Russo and Anthony Russo, who got their start with ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ and went on to make more Cap movies and, of course, the giant one-two punch of ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame’ –– and are back for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ and Matt Shakman, who made the leap from Disney+ series ‘WandaVision’ to the upcoming ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’.

    It’s also worth noting that Schreier is also a big X-Men fan, so he sounds like a solid choice –– and has proved his mettle with his most recent gig.

    Who else is involved with the new ‘X-Men’ movie?

    Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige at Disney's 2024 CinemaCon Presentation. Photo: Disney.
    Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige at Disney’s 2024 CinemaCon Presentation. Photo: Disney.

    Michael Lesslie, who most recently wrote a draft of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ (an adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel), has scored the job of working on the new movie.

    Lesslie has been in demand by studios of late, also being among the writers on the third instalment of the ‘Now You See Me’ franchise.

    We don’t expect Lesslie to be the final writer on this movie, either –– Marvel is infamous for bringing in other scribes and teams to punch up their projects. But he’s still listed for now.

    And, of course, Kevin Feige, the boss of Marvel Studios, is aboard as producer. Having gotten his career start working on the 20th Century Fox ‘X-Men’ movies, we know he’ll be closely involved in shepherding the mutants to the MCU.

    What will the story of the new ‘X-Men’ movie be?

    Hugh Jackman in 'X-Men'.
    Hugh Jackman in ‘X-Men’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    Somewhat naturally, Marvel has been keeping things very quiet as to the plot for the movie. We don’t even know which characters will be spotlighted. Though the likes of the Fox movies usually focused on the likes of Professor Charles Xavier, Erik “Magneto” Lensherr, Beast, Rogue and Wolverine, there has been plenty of speculation as to who might lead off the new movie, including talk of female leads.

    The versions of the characters played by Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Kelsey Grammer (Beast), Alan Cumming (Nightcrawler) and Rebecca Romijn (Mystique) are among the first announced cast for ‘Avengers: Doomsday.’

    We don’t, however, expect them to stick around as the “official” Marvel on-screen X-Men, and Schreier (or whoever ends up in the director’s chair) will be looking for the cast to play updated versions. Oh, what a tangled web the multiverse has weaved.

    Let’s not also forget the huge success of animated series ‘X-Men ’97,’ and, of course, last year’s giant hit ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ which poked some fun at the Fox run and also served as a warm wrap-up for it.

    When will the new ‘X-Men’ movie hit screens?

    As with the other elements, Feige and Marvel are taking their time with this one.

    No official announcement has been made as to a date, but if Schreier signs, and some casting falls into place, we could learn more at this summer’s San Diego Comic-Con.

    Disney and Marvel’s release calendar is fairly full for the next couple of years, but we could see an X-Men outing potentially arriving in the wake of ‘Secret Wars.’

    Haley Berry and Hugh Jackman in 'X-Men: The Last Stand'.
    (L to R) Haley Berry and Hugh Jackman in ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    List of Movies and TV Shows Featuring the X-Men:

    Buy Tickets: ‘Thunderbolts*’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Marvel Movies On Amazon

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  • TV Review: ‘X-Men ‘97’

    Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    Premiering on Disney+ on March 20, ‘X-Men ‘97’ will pick up from where season 5 of the original series left off in 1997. The series consists of ten episodes with updated animation in the same style and features returning voice talents such as Cal Dodd, Lenore Zann, Alison Sealy-Smith, and George Buza reprising their roles.

    Relate Article: Supervising Producer and Head Director Jake Castorena Talks ‘X-Men ’97’

    Initial Thoughts

    For those who grew up on the original 90’s cartoon, the anticipation for this series is high. ‘X-Men ‘97’ not only captures the heart and soul of the original but adds elevated animation and gripping storylines that’ll leave audiences wanting more. The familiar intro is refreshed but is still very similar to the 1992 series. Once the theme song kicks in, you’ll feel like you’re transported right back to that era, once again watching the characters you’ve grown up with.

    The series will premiere with two episodes, then one episode releasing weekly after.

    Story and Direction

    'X-Men '97' supervising producer and head director Jake Castorena.
    ‘X-Men ’97’ supervising producer and head director Jake Castorena.

    ‘X-Men ‘97’ is created by Beau DeMayo, with Jake Castorena as supervising director. The series picks up exactly where the 1996 episode “Graduation Day” leaves off, where the X-Men bid farewell to their leader, Professor Xavier. In the new series, Scott Summers aka Cyclops, steps into the role to lead the X-Men, but not without some growing pains. Cyclops faces the challenges of constantly questioning whether he can be a good enough replacement for Charles, and with Jean Grey pregnant, do they stay with the team or pursue a private family life outside of all the fighting?

    In its first episode, “To Me, My X-Men”, does a great job of moving things along within its 30 minutes run-time, setting up the obstacles the team will face, giving each character an adequate amount of screen time, and of course, plenty of action. Just like the original, the show’s overall theme focuses on the mutants trying to find a way to co-exist with the humans in peace, even though the humans continuously seek new ways to destroy them, using weapons like the Sentinal. Each episode teases the next precarious challenge for the X-Men to confront, leaving the viewers wanting more.

    One of the most intriguing plots of this new series is how the X-Men continue on without their leader. In the official trailer, X-Men’s longtime nemesis Magneto shows up, announcing he will be taking over the school as it was “the last will and testament of Charles Xavier.” This interesting twist is handled so well, but one can’t help but second guess the true intention of Magneto.

    Aside from the action, story, and cliffhangers, this series never forgets to have fun. It fully embraces the 90’s era dialogue and humor, and the fans will again get to see the banter between Wolverine and Cyclops.

    Performances

    Beast (voiced by George Buza), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Beast (voiced by George Buza), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    The series sees the return of some of the original voices reprising their roles, such as Cal Dodd as Wolverine, Lenore Zann as Rogue, George Buza as Beast, and Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm. Catherine Disher also returns to the series but voices the character Dr. Valerie “Val” Cooper instead of reprising her role as Jean Grey, now voiced by Jennifer Hale.

    The cast of old and new does an excellent job in the series by capturing the core elements of their respective characters. Their performances hook you right in and doesn’t leave you time to compare how they sound to the original. Storm has an updated look and combined with the powerful performance by Sealy-Smith, it’s hard to keep your eyes off her throughout the series. Perhaps one of the most fun characters to watch is Morph (JP Karliak), a mutant with the ability to shapeshift. His power makes the action scenes extremely entertaining, sometimes shifting so fast that if you blink, you’d miss it. While Morph has a ton of comedic moments, there are hints of darkness in a later episode.

    Final Thoughts

    Beast (voiced by George Buza), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Beast (voiced by George Buza), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    This series hits hard with nostalgia. For those who grew up watching the original 90s animated series, it’s incredibly fun and refreshed with gorgeous animation. The characters feel just as we saw them last. New viewers who are completely unfamiliar with X-Men might have a harder time catching on as the series doesn’t take the time to explain the characters’ origins or their powers. Regardless, the series is entertaining, the storyline (and twists) hooks you right in, and the show’s theme song is still one of the best theme songs around.

    ‘X-Men ‘97’ receives 9 out of 10 stars.

    Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd) and Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd) and Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    What is the Plot of ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    Picking up after the events of ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ (1992–1997), the X-Men face dangerous new challenges following the loss of their leader, Professor X (Ross Marquand).

    Who is in the Cast of ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    'X-Men '97,' exclusively on Disney+.
    ‘X-Men ’97,’ exclusively on Disney+. © 2024 MARVEL.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘X-Men ’97’:

    Buy ‘X-Men’ Movies On Amazon

  • ‘X-Men ’97’ Interview: Supervising Producer Jake Castorena

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    Premiering on Disney+ March 20th is the new animated series ‘X-Men ’97,’ which is a continuation of the popular ‘90’s cartoon ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ and features many of the original voice actors reprising their iconic roles.

    Related Article: Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm and Co. Return in the ‘X-Men ’97’ Trailer

    'X-Men '97' supervising producer and head director Jake Castorena.
    ‘X-Men ’97’ supervising producer and head director Jake Castorena.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with supervising producer and head director Jake Castorena about the new series, continuing the original series’ storylines, matching the animation to the original, and the importance of having the original voice actors return.

    You can read our full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews.

    Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    Moviefone: To begin with, can you talk about developing this new series, continuing storylines from the original, and the challenges of matching the animation to the first series?

    Jake Castorena: Awesome. Great question. Luckily a lot of that stuff was figured out well before I was brought on board from the story bible and the inceptions of the script from day one, from Beau Demayo‘s vision and working in tandem with Marvel Studios, Brad Winderbaum and Dana Vasquez Everhart. They had already figured out where the parameters were for the sound box, for the show, where the show needs to start, and where it needs to pick up from. I was brought in to help work on where the visual parameters of the sound box were to work in tandem with the story. So how true it is that the writing just needs to evoke the ’90s nostalgia as well as understanding the characters and conveying these emotions and these themes and carrying that feeling across. Same responsibility must come in the visual because unfortunately we can’t put a script on screen. The audience is here to hear and feel those words on those stories, but they want to see the X-Men. So, the rest of our in-house team and I were tasked with what does that look like? What does that feel like? Where are those parameters and just what is too clean? What is too HD? What is too aged? What is too filmed like on a potato? Where is the fresh but familiar? Where is the show that we know and love and the show that we remember, right? The show that we feel. But also finding that delicate balance of what coworkers, friends, and peers are doing in the industry right now with the medium and just elevating animation. Not only that, but further showing that animation isn’t just a children’s medium, it’s another way to tell stories. So, with that, going in tandem with that and going, “Oh, okay, we must still be relevant and want to be watched along with that, but we also have to fit into the sound box of the ’90s and ground us a little bit.” So, finding that delicate balance and that visual challenge, that’s been honestly some of the most fun work that I’ve ever had the privilege to do on a show. I’ve gotten to do a lot of fun stuff, to be frank. Shout out to our whole in-house team from our production design and art director to our in-house animation lead and his team, and our in-house comp team. They help bring the finishing touches strong and that’s, when you watch the show, you go, “This feels like the OG show.” Not to make a bad pun, but it’s an uncanny valley. It’s uncanny, right? That is all meticulously worked on and thought up from day one until we executed day 9,748.

    Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Jubilee (voiced by Holly Chou), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Beast (voiced by George Buza), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Jubilee (voiced by Holly Chou), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Beast (voiced by George Buza), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about the importance of having many of the original voice actors reprise their roles in this new series?

    JC: Well, again, that was one of those decisions that was just kind of already made. Once they knew they were going to make the show, it’s kind of a no-brainer. If you want to make a continuation, you must get the cast to continue. So, with that, it was more about are they available? Do they want to come back and play? That’s what was cool because yes, it was awesome! Look it’s been 30 years, right? Time is fickle. It hits us all. So, some of the voice actors are no longer with us, and they leave big shoes to fill. First and foremost, I am proud of our new cast stepping into these roles that they know are monuments to these characters that people know and love. I think they’re knocking it out of the park. Not only that, but to get the blessing from the legacy cast on them has been nothing short of just awesome and quite honestly brought a tear to my eye. It’s like, “Oh, that’s so great.” How do you have X-Men without Rogue’s syrupy thick accent? Again, to that point, those who were still game and wanted to come back and do the voices and who could still do the voices, we brought back to play. Those who were game, and again, it’s been 30 years, some vocal quality doesn’t keep sometimes, it’s just time. Those who still wanted to come back and play with us, we found they were given other roles to be able to come in and still play with the sound box because it is about acknowledging the work and the people that came before us. So just to get to have everybody come in and play as much as we could, that’s just been a dream come true.

    Beast (voiced by George Buza), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Beast (voiced by George Buza), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), and Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    What is the Plot of ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    Picking up after the events of ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ (1992–1997), the X-Men face dangerous new challenges following the loss of their leader, Professor X (Ross Marquand).

    Who is in the Cast of ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    'X-Men '97,' exclusively on Disney+.
    ‘X-Men ’97,’ exclusively on Disney+. © 2024 MARVEL.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘X-Men ’97’:

    Buy ‘X-Men’ Movies On Amazon

     

  • Animated Mutants Return in the ‘X-Men ’97’ Trailer

    Preview:

    • A new full trailer for ‘X-Men ’97’ is online.
    • It continues the classic animated superhero series.
    • The show comes to Disney+ on March 20th.

    “To me, my X-Men!” The theme tune. The classic look of the animation… If you grew up with ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ in the 1990s or are looking for a way to enjoy the characters’ on screen adventures while we all wait for the big screen MCU to get around to including them (beyond some cameos in recent movies), then you’re in luck next month.

    After it was originally discussed as a revival in 2019 and officially announced as part of Disney+ Day in November 2021, now we know that we only have to wait until next month for the show to premiere on the streaming service.

    What’s the Story of ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    Jubilee (voiced by Holly Chou), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Jean Grey (voiced by Jennifer Hale), Gambit (voiced by AJ LaCascio), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), and Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Jubilee (voiced by Holly Chou), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Jean Grey (voiced by Jennifer Hale), Gambit (voiced by AJ LaCascio), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), and Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    The new show revisits the iconic era of the 1990s as The X-Men, a band of mutants who use their uncanny gifts to protect a world that hates and fears them, are challenged like never before, forced to face a dangerous and unexpected new future.

    With leader Professor Charles Xavier dead, our heroes must continue their struggle –– only to learn that their enemy Magneto has somehow inherited the X-mansion and everything in Charles’ will. Awkward!

    Who Lends Their Voices to ‘X-Men ‘97’?

    Beast (voiced by George Buza), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Beast (voiced by George Buza), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    The voice cast includes Ray Chase as Cyclops, Jennifer Hale as Jean Grey, Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, Cal Dodd as Wolverine, JP Karliak as Morph, Lenore Zann as Rogue, George Buza as Beast, AJ LoCascio as Gambit, Holly Chou as Jubilee, Isaac Robinson-Smith as Bishop, Matthew Waterson as Magneto and Adrian Hough as Nightcrawler.

    If you want more from this era, an ‘X-Men ‘97’ prequel comic is also on the way, hitting stores on March 27th. The comic is written by Steve Foxe and drawn by Salva Espin. The story on the page aims to bridge the gap between the end of the previous show and the new one.

    ‘X-Men ‘97’ Creative Team Talk

    Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Morph (voiced by JP Karliak), Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith), Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio), Cyclops (voiced by Ray Chase), Rogue (voiced by Lenore Zann), Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd), Bishop (voiced by Isaac Robinson-Smith), Beast (voiced by George Buza) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.

    In an interview with Empire, showrunner Beau DeMayo and supervising producer Jake Castorena discussed takes on two of the beloved characters.

    Here’s DeMayo on Beast:

    “He’s the guy who’s always going to say the right thing, even if he’s quoting somebody else. He’s always going to have a solution. It may not be the perfect solution, but he’s going to try very, very hard to fix the scientific problem of the day.”

    And Castorena talks Wolverine:

    “What I love is, he has the most combat training of everyone on the team just because he’s been alive long enough… And he throws it out the window every time.”

    When will ‘X-Men ‘97’ be on screens?

    The series is launching all 10 episodes at once via Disney+ on March 20th.

    Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd) and Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    (L to R) Wolverine (voiced by Cal Dodd) and Gambit (voiced by AJ LoCascio) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.
    Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith) in Marvel Animation's 'X-Men '97.'
    Storm (voiced by Alison Sealy-Smith) in Marvel Animation’s ‘X-Men ’97.’ Photo courtesy of Marvel Animation. © 2024 MARVEL.
    'X-Men '97,' exclusively on Disney+.
    ‘X-Men ’97,’ exclusively on Disney+. © 2024 MARVEL.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘X-Men ’97’:

    Buy ‘X-Men’ Movies On Amazon

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  • Marvel Delaying More TV Series

    (Left) Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez in Disney+'s 'Echo.' Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness in Marvel Studios' 'Wandavision' exclusively on Disney+. Captain Carter in Marvel Studios' 'What If…?' exclusively on Disney+.
    (Left) Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez in Disney+’s ‘Echo.’ (Center) Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness in Marvel Studios’ ‘Wandavision’ exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Suzanne Tenner. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved. (Right) Captain Carter in Marvel Studios’ ‘What If…?’ exclusively on Disney+. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.

    The consequences of the studios and other big companies that make up the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) not negotiating in good faith with writers and actors are continuing to be felt.

    We already learned that Disney and Marvel have been juggling their schedules for big screen output to accommodate films that are delayed due to the strikes (or completed projects for which they want talent to be available to promote).

    Yet that is also having a knock-on effect on the various Disney+ series that the superhero-focused studio produces. Which is hardly surprising given the deep intersections between Marvel’s movie and TV output (and the fact that the shows are also seeing delays due to writer and actor availability).

    Related Article: ‘Avatar’, ‘Avengers’ and ‘Star Wars’ Movies all Get New Release Dates in Big Disney Schedule Shift

    What’s happening with Marvel’s TV series?

    The Watcher (voiced by Jeffrey Wright) in Marvel Studios' 'What If…?' exclusively on Disney+.
    The Watcher (voiced by Jeffrey Wright) in Marvel Studios’ ‘What If…?’ exclusively on Disney+. ©Marvel Studios 2020. All Rights Reserved.

    Animated series ‘What If…?’, which explores variations on characters and stories, has a second season ready to go, but will now launch in December this year (an exact date has yet to be announced).

    ‘Hawkeye’ spin-off ‘Echo’, based around Alaqua Cox‘s deaf Native American character, is shifting from November to January, while ‘X-Men ‘97’, a revival of the 1990s animated show, will fly from this fall to early next year.

    Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness and Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff in Marvel Studios' 'Wandavision' exclusively on Disney+.
    (L-R): Kathryn Hahn as Agatha Harkness and Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff in Marvel Studios’ ‘Wandavision’ exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. ©Marvel Studios 2021. All Rights Reserved.

    Perhaps the biggest move underway is for the series currently known as ‘Agatha: Darkhold Diaries’ (formerly ‘Agatha: House of Harkness’ and then ‘Agatha: Coven of Chaos’), now shifting to next fall, likely (probably a smart move) to arrive around Halloween 2024.

    As for shows that were still in production (or post-production)? The likes of ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ and ‘Wonder Man‘ will have to wait to gear up shooting again, while ‘Ironheart’ (featuring Dominique Thorne’s Riri Williams, first introduced in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’), is stuck in post-production limbo, and does not currently have a launch slot.

    Is ‘Loki’ Season 2 delayed?

    Tom Hiddleston as Loki in Marvel Studios' 'Loki,' Season 2, exclusively on Disney+.
    Tom Hiddleston as Loki in Marvel Studios’ ‘Loki,’ Season 2, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 MARVEL.

    ‘Loki’s second season is still on track to launch on Disney+ on October 6th.

    Marvel is no doubt figuring that the show –– which is still the most successful of the small screen MCU offerings –– will effectively sell itself. And it also doesn’t want to have the fall completely empty.

    ‘Loki’ picks up the story of the title character’s (Tom Hiddleston) journey around the multiverse, figuring out what is wrong with time and encountering variant versions of himself. Owen Wilson and Sophia Di Martino star in the series, with Ke Huy Quan a big guest star in this second season.

    AMC scores waiver

    Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon in AMC's 'The Walking Dead.'
    Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon in AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead.’

    It’s not all bad news for those who produce TV series (and movies). Many independent productions have secured waivers to keep shooting or to promote their projects.

    Perhaps the highest profile of recent examples is AMC, which is behind shows such as the mammoth ‘Walking Dead’ franchise and ‘Mayfair Witches’.

    It might surprise you to learn that AMC Networks, whose AMC Studios produces most of its shows, is not an AMPTP member but is an “authorized” by the alliance, meaning AMC agrees to abide by any contracts between the AMPTP and industry unions such as the WGA or SAG-AFTRA.

    The recent waiver from SAG-AFTRA (the union representing actors, which is currently on strike) means that three shows can continue work.

    Danai Gurira as Michonne, and Andrew Lincoln as Rick Grimes in AMC's 'The Walking Dead.'
    (L t R) Danai Gurira as Michonne, and Andrew Lincoln as Rick Grimes in AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead.’

    ‘Walking Dead’ spin-off ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ (surely self-explanatory for fans) can resume production while ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’ (which sees the return of Andrew Lincoln’s Rick Grimes and Danai Gurira’s Michonne to the franchise) finished shooting before the strike but can have the cast head to the studio for post-production work such as additional dialogue recording.

    Anne Rice adaptation ‘Interview With the Vampire’ will return to shooting in Prague after shutting down when the actors’ strike started. No other AMC shows are currently included under the waiver.

    Marvel Studios and Disney+'s 'Echo.'
    Marvel Studios and Disney+’s ‘Echo.’

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  • Comic-Con 2022: Marvel Spotlights its Upcoming Animated Slate

    Even as its live-action offerings continue to expand (‘She-Hulk’ is next up on the roster), Disney and Marvel are not neglecting the animated side of their televisual universe.

    At this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, the Marvel team offered a blend of announcements, confirmations and new details on their various animated series.

    ‘What If…?’ of course, has already had its first season out on the streaming service, will be back for more early next year. The panel included a screening of one episode of Season 2, plus news that Season 3 has just been commissioned. Season 2 includes episodes featuring characters such as ‘Thor: Ragnarok’s Hela.

    The Zombies episode of ‘What If…?’ was a popular one among fans, so of course the MCU is spinning that one off. ‘Marvel Zombies’, also inspired by the 2005 comics run, takes place in an alternate reality where a new generation of heroes must battle against a zombie apocalypse.

    That show is overseen by executive producer Bryan Andrews (who directs) and written by fellow executive producer Zeb Wells.

    San Diego Comic-Con 2022 Marvel Animation panel.
    San Diego Comic-Con 2022 Marvel Animation panel.

    Further away in terms of release is ‘Spider-Man: Freshman Year’, the new Spidey cartoon series.

    Originally announced on Disney+ Day last year, ‘Spider-Man: Freshman Year’ is an animated series that follows Peter Parker on his way to becoming Spider-Man in the MCU, with a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots. With Jeff Trammel as head writer, the show will be set before the events of ‘Captain America: Civil War’ and naturally sees Peter wearing a version of his earlier, more homemade suit.

    Jeff Trammell teased the show with the cast of characters, and Ryan Meinerding showed off the new Spider-Man suit designed for the series. A fun reveal was that moderator Paul F. Tompkins will be playing a character in the series. A second season was also announced, aptly titled ‘Spider-Man: Sophomore Year.’

    We learned at the panel that Charlie Cox is aboard to voice Matt Murdock/Daredevil in the series, though there’s no word on whether Tom Holland is playing Peter (he’s said before he’d be happy to do it). Doctor Strange was also featured in the artwork shown at the panel.
    ‘Freshman Year’ will debut on Disney+ in 2024.

    Before that, we’ll see one of the more anticipated offerings, ‘X-Men ’97’. Written and produced by Beau DeMayo, it’ll further the legacy of the 1990s ‘X-Men: The Animated Series’ and, to the delight of fans in the audience at the Con, will indeed feature the iconic theme music.

    San Diego Comic-Con 2022 Marvel Animation panel.
    San Diego Comic-Con 2022 Marvel Animation panel.

    While the show is still in an unfinished state, DeMayo brought artwork and an animatic, and announced that a Season 2 is also being figured out.

    ‘X-Men ’97’ heads to Disney+ in Fall 2023.

    On the sillier and more adorable side of things, we have ‘I Am Groot’, which spins off the toddler version of the leafy ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ character. Voiced, as usual by Vin Diesel, the five initial shorts while chronicles his glory days growing up — and getting into trouble — among the stars.

    Written, produced and directed by Kirsten Lepore the Groot shorts, teased in the first trailer for the show, offer the chance for limited dialogue fun as Groot encounters other creatures – and has problems with them!

    Bradley Cooper is back to voice Rocket and Lepore announced that a further five shorts are now in the works.

    The first batch will take root on Disney+ on August 10th.

    'I Am Groot,' exclusively on Disney+. © 2022 MARVEL.
    ‘I Am Groot,’ exclusively on Disney+. © 2022 MARVEL.