Plot: What’s it about?
This release contains five episodes from the X-Men animated series and while I wasn’t a fan, I am still pleased to see the series here. I do like certain episodes, but I always found the animation too crude for the X-Men and as such, I never watched much. The series features all the old favorites, such as Wolverine, Magneto, Cyclops, Professor X, and the others, in adventure after amazing adventure. I’d seen Universal’s release of The Phoenix Saga, so I knew what to expect from this disc, which features five additional episodes of the series. Below you’ll find a brief synopsis for each included episode, as well as my own thoughts.
Sanctuary Part 1- Tired of the hatred shown toward his fellow mutants, Magneto has created a new home for those like him. On Asteroid M, mutants can live without fear of harsh treatment, as well as learn to hone their special talents. This chance for hope and freedom is a noble effort by Magneto, but when it is discovered he has defense missiles, the government decides to label the asteroid as a threat. I like the premise here and some moments are well executed, but as usual, the episode fails to live up to the potential, which is a shame.
Sanctuary Part 2- As all heck breaks loose on his once peaceful asteroid, Magneto ends up in a downward spiral, one that could have lethal results. At the same time, the X-Men are right in the middle of a skirmish with the inhabitants, which could turn gruesome at any second. All the while, pressure mounts as the asteroid seems on the verge of revolution, not to mention Fabien Cortez and his wishes for those defense missiles. This two prater closes better than it opens, but still failed to come across as well as it should have.
Proteus Part 1- After her husband left her and her young son, Moira has hidden Kevin away, but he’s ready to explore the world, as well as hunt down his father. Kevin now has immense strength and some telepathic abilities, which makes him a serious threat to all who oppose him. Now known as Proteus, he seeks to track down his father and learn the truth about why he was abandoned as a child. This series sometimes has really bad storylines and of course, this is a perfect example of that. Of all the cool stories at their disposal, the creative team creates a toilet flushable two parter, not even worth a look, unless you’re a diehard X-Men fan.
Proteus Part 2- More of good old Proteus, who has now learned more about his father, who is running for a political office of some sorts. One of his main points is family values, so Proteus decides to crash his speech and reveal the truth about his father’s actions. Just when this series can’t get any lamer, it does and this episode is even worse than the first part.
Weapon X, Lies, and Videotape- After a postcard sent memories flooding through his mind, Wolverine travels back to the ruins of Weapon X, to try to put some more pieces together. Once he arrives, he learns that Sabretooth, Maverick, and Silver Fox are having the same kind of feelings, so the four work together to unearth the truth about their pasts. But in this case, perhaps the past is best left unknown…or is it? This is a good episode, but with four mediocre ones included, it just can’t save this disc from sinking.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame transfer, which preserves the intended televised aspect ratio. The images here look solid, but since the show was no source of great visuals, don’t expect any miracles with this disc. The animation hasn’t missed a beat and looks as good as ever, while no compression errors surfaced either. The colors seem in order and black levels are solid, no serious problems to report on this end.
Audio: How does it sound?
This release uses your basic stereo options within the episodes, so they sound much like they did when televised. The sound is basic, but effective and since this seems a little richer than when shown on the tube, I have no real complaints. Of course, you shouldn’t expect a reference level experience, but it sounds as good as when broadcast, which is enough. The cheese laden sound effects are well presented, while the terrible music is also in fine enough form here. No complaints with dialogue either, the low rent voice talents sound terrific and without error. This disc also includes subtitles in English, Spanish, and French.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains no bonus materials.
