Editing X-Men: Evolution

{{short description|Television series}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2012}}
{{Infobox television
| image                = X-Men Evolution.jpg
| caption              =
| alt_name             = 
| genre                = [[Superhero fiction|Superhero]]
| creator              = [[Marty Isenberg]]<br />[[Robert N. Skir]]<br />[[David Wise (writer)|David Wise]]
| based_on             = {{Based on|[[X-Men]]||[[Stan Lee]]|[[Jack Kirby]]}}
| developer            = John Bush<br />John W. Hyde<br />Jon Vein
| writer               = 
| director             = 
| creative_director    = 
| presenter            = 
| starring             = 
| voices               = {{Plainlist|
* Meghan Black
* [[Neil Denis]]
* [[David Kaye (voice actor)|David Kaye]]
* [[Scott McNeil]]
* [[Kirby Morrow]] 
* [[Maggie Blue O'Hara]]
* [[Brad Swaile]]
* [[Venus Terzo]]
* [[Kirsten Williamson]]
* [[Michael Kopsa]]
}}
| narrated             = 
| theme_music_composer = 
| opentheme            = 
| endtheme             = 
| composer             = William Kevin Anderson
| country              = United States
| language             = English
| num_seasons          = 4
| num_episodes         = 52
| list_episodes        = List of X-Men: Evolution episodes
| executive_producer   = {{Plainlist|
* [[Avi Arad]]
* [[Rick Ungar]]
* Stan Lee
}}
| producer             = {{Plainlist|
* [[Boyd Kirkland]]
* Greg Johnson (season 4)
}}
| editor               = {{Plainlist|
* Al Breitenbach (season 1)
* Mark T Collins (seasons 3–4)
}}
| location             = 
| cinematography       = 
| camera               = 
| animator             = {{plainlist|
* [[Madhouse, Inc.|Madhouse]]
* [[Mook Animation]]
* [[DR Movie]]
}}
| runtime              = 20–22 minutes
| company              = [[Film Roman]]<br />[[Marvel Studios]]{{efn|Animation outsourced to [[Madhouse (company)|Madhouse]], [[Mook Animation|Mook DLE]], and [[DR Movie]].}}
| channel              = [[Kids' WB]]
| first_aired          = {{Start date|2000|11|4}}
| last_aired           = {{End date|2003|10|25}}
| related              =  
}}

'''''X-Men: Evolution''''' is an American [[List of animated television series|animated television series]] based on the [[superhero]] series ''[[X-Men]]'' published by [[Marvel Comics]].<ref>{{cite news|title=The History of Wolverine and the X-Men on TV|website=[[IGN]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|url=http://uk.tv.ign.com/articles/709/709943p3.html|access-date=August 21, 2010}}</ref> Taking inspiration from the early issues of the original comics, the series portrays the X-Men as teenagers rather than adults, following their struggle to control their [[Mutant (Marvel Comics)|mutant]] powers as they face various threats and backlash. <ref>{{cite book |last1=Erickson |first1=Hal |title=Television Cartoon Shows: An Illustrated Encyclopedia, 1949 Through 2003 |date=2005 |edition=2nd |publisher=McFarland & Co |isbn=978-1476665993 |pages=926–928}}</ref> ''X-Men: Evolution'' ran for a total of four seasons, comprising 52 episodes in total, from November 4, 2000, to October 25, 2003, on [[Kids' WB]], making it the third longest-running Marvel Comics animated series at the time, behind [[Fox Kids]]' ''[[X-Men: The Animated Series]]'' and ''[[Spider-Man (1994 TV series)|Spider-Man]]''. Seasons one through three aired on [[Cartoon Network]] from August 31, 2001, to May 27, 2003. The series later aired on [[Disney XD]] from June 15, 2009, to December 30, 2011 and was later featured on Disney+. 

Produced in the United States, the voice recording was done in Canada; and the show was animated in Japan and South Korea. The series was distributed by [[Warner Bros. Television Studios#Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution|Warner Bros. Television Distribution]] during its original run and is currently distributed by [[Disney Platform Distribution]] in the United States.

==Plot==
===Season 1===
The first season introduces the core characters of the series. The titular team, founded by [[Professor X|Professor Charles Xavier]], competes with [[Mystique (character)|Mystique]] to recruit young mutants with newly discovered [[Superpower (ability)|superpowers]] to their cause. At the [[X-Mansion|Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters]], the teenage X-Men are taught by Xavier, [[Wolverine (character)|Wolverine]], and [[Storm (Marvel Comics)|Storm]] to control their abilities and keep them hidden from the rest of society whilst attending high school in the fictional [[Upstate New York]] town of Bayville.<ref name="Ten years tough for X-Men">Evan Levine [https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=y94vAAAAIBAJ&sjid=tTsDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4190,2099465 Ten years tough for X-Men] ''Rome News-Tribune'' – November 21, 2000. Retrieved June 8, 2011</ref> Their ranks grow over the course of the season and ultimately include [[Cyclops (Marvel Comics)|Cyclops]], [[Jean Grey]], [[Nightcrawler (character)|Nightcrawler]], [[Kitty Pryde|Shadowcat]], [[Spyke]], and [[Rogue (Marvel Comics)|Rogue]], who is initially manipulated into joining Mystique's [[Brotherhood of Mutants|Brotherhood of Bayville]].

While the X-Men teach their recruits to exercise restraint and uphold responsibility, Mystique encourages the Brotherhood to recklessly use their powers for selfish gain. The juvenile delinquents inducted into the Brotherhood consist of [[Avalanche (character)|Avalanche]], [[Toad (Marvel Comics)|Toad]], [[Blob (Marvel Comics)|Blob]], and [[Quicksilver (Marvel Comics)|Quicksilver]]. The mastermind behind Mystique and the Brotherhood is eventually revealed to be [[Magneto (Marvel Comics)|Magneto]], a shadowy and mysterious figure from Xavier's past who seeks to enable mutants to replace humans as the dominant species on the planet. Nightcrawler also learns that he is Mystique's biological son, who was lost to her long ago due to Magneto's interference.

Other villains in the season are Wolverine's old rival [[Sabretooth (character)|Sabretooth]], Xavier's vengeful half-brother [[Juggernaut (character)|Juggernaut]], and [[Weapon X]] professor [[Professor Thorton|Andre Thorton]].

===Season 2===
Season two focuses on the continuing conflict between the X-Men, Magneto, and Mystique. [[Beast (Marvel Comics)|Beast]] joins the X-Men as a teacher as a cohort of [[New Mutants|new mutants]] are added to their ranks, including [[Iceman (Marvel Comics)|Iceman]], [[Magma (comics)|Magma]], [[Jubilee (character)|Jubilee]], [[Cannonball (Marvel Comics)|Cannonball]], [[Berzerker (comics)|Berzerker]], [[Jamie Madrox|Multiple]], [[Sunspot (Marvel Comics)|Sunspot]], [[Wolfsbane (character)|Wolfsbane]], and [[Tabitha Smith|Boom Boom]], who soon leaves the team and becomes a neutral character. The season also introduces [[Warren Worthington III|Angel]], who uses his powers to help people independently but chooses not to join the X-Men.

Cyclops and Jean grow closer, creating a [[love triangle]] when Rogue develops a crush on Cyclops, while Shadowcat and Avalanche begin dating despite being on opposing sides.

The X-Men are faced with several threats: Mystique strikes off with the Brotherhood and recruits the [[Scarlet Witch]], Magneto's abandoned daughter and Quicksilver's sister, to seek revenge; [[Mesmero]] plots to free the ancient mutant [[Apocalypse (character)|Apocalypse]]; and Magneto forms a new group of mutant followers called the [[Acolytes (comics)|Acolytes]], comprising Sabretooth, [[Gambit (Marvel Comics)|Gambit]], [[Pyro (Marvel Comics)|Pyro]], and [[Colossus (character)|Colossus]]. The existence of mutants is ultimately revealed to the world when Magneto pits the X-Men and the Brotherhood against [[Bolivar Trask]]'s anti-mutant weapon, the [[Sentinel (comics)|Sentinel]]. The X-Men discover that Mystique has been posing as Xavier, who is now missing.

===Season 3===
Season three focuses on the rising tension and hostility between mutants and humans. After Xavier is found and rescued, the X-Men attempt to rebuild their normal lives in Bayville and continue using their powers for good, though they face public scrutiny and discrimination from the other students at school.

The X-Men are forced to contend with numerous personal struggles: Cyclops is abducted and left for dead by Mystique; Spyke leaves the team to join the sewer-dwelling [[Morlocks (comics)|Morlocks]] when his mutation rapidly advances; Nightcrawler overcomes his insecurities about his appearance; Rogue learns that Mystique is her adoptive mother and loses control of her powers; and Wolverine discovers that he has a teenage clone called [[X-23]], who was created by [[Hydra (comics)|Hydra]] to be trained and used as a weapon.

Meanwhile, Magneto enlists [[Mastermind (Jason Wyngarde)|Mastermind]] to alter Scarlet Witch's memories to end her vendetta against him; and Mesmero manipulates Mystique and hypnotizes Rogue into helping him resurrect Apocalypse, who defeats the combined forces of the X-Men, the Brotherhood, and the Acolytes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/21956/x-men-evolution-the-complete-third-season/|title=X-Men Evolution - The Complete Third Season|website=dvdtalk.com}}</ref>

===Season 4===
Season four focuses on the aftermath of the X-Men's failed attempt to prevent Apocalypse's revival. The Brotherhood try their hand at heroism, only for their selfish tendencies to prevail; Wolverine and X-23 work together to bring down Hydra; Xavier confronts his estranged son [[Legion (Marvel Comics)|David]]; Spyke and the Morlocks begin fighting back against human prejudice; Shadowcat befriends [[Danielle Moonstar]]; and Rogue pushes Mystique's petrified statue off a cliff, creating a rift between her and Nightcrawler, which causes her to seek redemption by helping Gambit to rescue his father.

Apocalypse captures and transforms Xavier, Storm, Magneto, and Mystique into his [[Horsemen of Apocalypse|Four Horsemen]] as he attempts to turn the human population into mutants. During the final battle, the X-Men and their allies defeat the Horsemen, who are returned to normal, while Rogue absorbs the powers of [[Leech (character)|Dorian Leach]] to neutralize Apocalypse. In the aftermath, Rogue and Nightcrawler rebuff Mystique's attempt to make amends; Magneto reconciles with Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch; Shadowcat and Avalanche rekindle their relationship; Spyke reconnects with his aunt Storm; and Xavier sees his students reunited as the X-Men.

The series ends with a speech by Xavier, having caught a glimpse of the near future in Apocalypse's mind that shows:
* Continued anti-mutant sentiment at Capitol Hill.
* A reformed Magneto as a new instructor at Xavier's institute.
* Jean being consumed by the all-powerful [[Phoenix Force]]. Had the series continued, the fifth season would have focused on the ''[[The Dark Phoenix Saga|Dark Phoenix]]'' saga with her becoming an enemy of the X-Men.
* The future X-Men team consisting of Cyclops, Nightcrawler, Shadowcat, Storm, Beast, Iceman, Colossus, X-23, and Rogue, who is now capable of flight and no longer wearing gloves.
* The Brotherhood, including Pyro reforming and joining [[S.H.I.E.L.D.]] as the [[Freedom Force (comics)|Freedom Force]].
* A fleet of Sentinels led by [[Nimrod (comics)|Nimrod]].
* A final photographic portrait of the full X-Men roster, including new members [[Havok (character)|Havok]], Angel, Gambit, Colossus, and X-23.

==Episodes==
{{Main|List of X-Men: Evolution episodes|l1=List of ''X-Men: Evolution'' episodes}}
{{:List of X-Men: Evolution episodes}}

==Cast and characters==
[[File:XMEFullRoster.jpg|240px|thumb|right|The full X-Men roster seen in the series finale]]
{{Main|List of X-Men: Evolution characters|l1=List of ''X-Men: Evolution'' characters}}

* [[Professor X|Professor Charles Xavier]] (voiced by [[David Kaye (voice actor)|David Kaye]]) is the [[Telepathy|telepathic]] founder and pacifistic leader of the X-Men. Nicknamed "Professor X" by his students, he remains somewhat secretive to protect the young mutants in his care. Although he often emphasizes the importance of keeping their powers hidden from the rest of the world, Xavier remains hopeful that mutants and humans can one day coexist peacefully.
* [[Cyclops (Marvel Comics)|Scott Summers / Cyclops]] (voiced by [[Kirby Morrow]]) is the disciplined and responsible field leader of the X-Men. His eyes constantly emit powerful energy beams known as "optic blasts", which can only be controlled by his ruby-quartz glasses and visor. Scott harbors romantic affections for his best friend Jean, but only confesses his feelings for her in the third season, after which they begin dating.
* [[Jean Grey]] (voiced by [[Venus Terzo]]) is a popular girl with powerful telepathic and [[Telekinesis|telekinetic]] abilities. She finds herself romantically torn between Duncan Matthews and Scott, until she and Scott begin dating in the third season.
* [[Spyke|Evan Daniels / Spyke]] (voiced by [[Neil Denis]]) is Ororo's playful and stubborn nephew and the youngest member of the X-Men. He has the ability to project bone-like protrusions from his skin. Evan leaves the X-Men to join the Morlocks when he loses control of his powers in the third season.
* [[Wolverine (character)|Logan / Wolverine]] (voiced by [[Scott McNeil]]) is the "gruff uncle" of the X-Men and the strict instructor in charge of the young mutants' combat and survival training. He possesses heightened senses, a regenerative healing factor and an indestructible [[adamantium]] skeleton with retractable hand claws. Logan has also shown a softer side as a protective surrogate father to both his clone X-23 and Rogue after she loses control of her powers.
* [[Storm (Marvel Comics)|Ororo Munroe / Storm]] (voiced by [[Kirsten Williamson]]) is Evan's aunt and a wise mentor to the X-Men who can harness the forces of nature and manipulate the weather. She was previously worshipped as a goddess in Africa due to her ability to summon the rains.
* [[Rogue (Marvel Comics)|Rogue]] (voiced by Meghan Black) is a sullen and reclusive [[Goth subculture|goth]] girl who can absorb the life force, attributes, memories, and powers of anyone through physical touch. She is Mystique's adopted daughter and Kurt's foster sister. Rogue is initially tricked into joining the Brotherhood of Mutants before defecting to the X-Men. She develops an unrequited crush on Scott but eventually becomes attracted to Gambit, an Acolyte working for Magneto. Rogue's real name is never revealed in the series.
* [[Kitty Pryde|Kitty Pryde / Shadowcat]] (voiced by [[Maggie Blue O'Hara]]) is an upbeat and cheerful [[valley girl]] who can become intangible. She is the second youngest member of the X-Men and develops a close friendship with Kurt over the course of the series. Despite being on opposing teams, Kitty begins dating Avalanche of the Brotherhood of Mutants in the second season.
* [[Nightcrawler (character)|Kurt Wagner / Nightcrawler]] (voiced by [[Brad Swaile]]) is the blue-furred prankster of the X-Men with the ability to teleport. He is Mystique's biological son and Rogue's foster brother. Kurt develops a close friendship with Kitty and his penchant for excessive goofiness initially clashes with Scott's rule-abiding leadership. He is insecure about his appearance and given a holographic image inducer that allows him to blend in at school, though he comes to embrace his true self over the course of the series.
* [[Beast (Marvel Comics)|Hank McCoy / Beast]] (voiced by [[Michael Kopsa]]) is a mild-mannered intellectual with a repressed, feral alternative mutant personality. He initially works as a gym coach and chemistry teacher at Bayville High School before his latent transformation forces him to retire and join the X-Men as a mentor in the second season.

==Music==
''X-Men: Evolution'' featured several songs that were produced exclusively for the show:
* "Only a Girl (The Bayville Sirens' Theme)" in "Walk on the Wild Side".
* "T-O-A-D (Toad's Theme)" in "The Toad, the Witch and the Wardrobe".
* "Who Am I Now? (Rogue's Theme)" in "Rogue Recruit".
* "Wolverine (Wolverine's Theme)" in a promotional video.
* "Evolution Theme (Theme Song)" in the start of the show.

The theme and score for ''X-Men: Evolution'' was composed and produced by William Kevin Anderson.  Several characters had distinct musical cues, including [[Avalanche (character)|Avalanche]] (heavy guitar riffs), [[Storm (Marvel Comics)|Storm]] (orchestra piece), and [[Apocalypse (character)|Apocalypse]] (Egyptian music). Others had special sound effects. These include Jean Grey (light chime noise), [[Sabretooth (character)|Sabretooth]] (roaring), [[Rogue (comics)|Rogue]] (also has a unique, black and white special effect), [[Magneto (Marvel Comics)|Magneto]], [[Gambit (Marvel Comics)|Gambit]], [[Kitty Pryde|Shadowcat]], and [[Nightcrawler (character)|Nightcrawler]]. The main theme song was recorded by Anderson.

==Production notes==
The original working title of the show while in production was ''Children of the Atom'', a reference to the X-Men comic book in circulation. However, this was scrapped as the network did not want the title to reference children.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bobulinksi |first1=Andrew |last2=Blake |first2=Kinsey |title=An Interview with Robert N. Skir |url=https://conventionalrelations.net/2020/11/11/an-interview-with-robert-n-skir/ |website=conventionalrelations.net |date=November 11, 2020 |access-date=20 April 2024}}</ref>
One of the main points of the new ''X-Men: Evolution'' concept was the design of the new costumes. Early concept art sketches show the X-Men in classic gold-and-black garb. In these drafts, Spyke wears [[cornrows]], Rogue's outfit exposes her midriff, and Jean Grey's costume is the female version of Cyclops' costume. Both Jean Grey and Shadowcat wear face masks, and Kitty is also wearing an orange miniskirt and [[Dr. Martens|Doc Martens]] over spandex. Early Storm drawings show her wearing white rather than black.{{Citation needed|date=October 2008}}

A point of controversy was the design of the blue-skinned villain Mystique. [[Steven E. Gordon]], the character designer and director of various episodes, was never impressed with the Mystique designs for the first season. Mystique was originally to be presented as nude (as in the [[X-Men (film series)|films]]), but Warner Bros. did not want this included in a Kids' WB! production.<ref name="animationage">[http://marvel.toonzone.net/xmenevo/interviews/gordon/ Marvel Animation Age Presents: X-Men: Evolution]</ref> However, a short scene of Mystique drawn to resemble her film counterpart (albeit clothed) appears in the Season 1 finale. Gordon stopped directing after two seasons, but continued to design characters for the show. He is most satisfied with the designs of Rogue and Scarlet Witch.<ref name="animationage"/>

The show also contained various pop culture references: in episode 9 of the first season, one of Wolverine's defensive programs for the Danger Room is referred to as "Logan's Run X13", a clear reference to the novel/film ''[[Logan's Run]]''.  The Rogue/Kitty dance in "Spykecam" was modeled after a similar dance in the ''[[Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV series)|Buffy the Vampire Slayer]]'' episode "[[Bad Girls (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)|Bad Girls]]".<ref name="beyondevo">{{Cite web |url=http://x-men.toonzone.net/qaboyd.php |title=Beyond Evolution: X-Men Evolution |access-date=June 27, 2006 |archive-date=July 4, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060704075118/http://x-men.toonzone.net/qaboyd.php |url-status=dead }}</ref> The play used in "Spykecam", ''Dracula: The Musical'', is a real play. The song used, however, is an original song made for the episode. The writers of the show have also admitted that they were fans of ''Buffy the Vampire Slayer''. Using Shadowcat as the catalyst, the two shows appear similar: a teenage girl with superpowers fights powerful villains in order to save her high school.<ref name="beyondevo"/> ''Buffy'' creator [[Joss Whedon]] has openly credited his inspiration for Buffy as Kitty Pryde.<ref>[http://www.ugo.com/channels/comics/features/josswhedon/default.asp Joss Whedon Talks X-Men, Firefly Movie] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709071018/http://www.ugo.com/channels/comics/features/josswhedon/default.asp |date=July 9, 2011 }}</ref>

Starting with the first episode of Season 4, "Impact", the episode title was no longer aired on-screen at the beginning of the show, and ''X-Men: Evolution'' became the third longest-running Marvel cartoon, behind ''[[Spider-Man (1994 TV series)|Spider-Man]]'' (5 seasons, 65 episodes) and ''[[X-Men: The Animated Series]]'' (5 seasons, 76 episodes). [[Boyd Kirkland]], the show's producer, says his favorite ''X-Men: Evolution'' season is Season 3.<ref name="animationage"/> The monthly budget for ''X-Men: Evolution'' was $350,000.{{Citation needed|date=May 2007}}

This is the first ''X-Men'' animated series to use [[digital ink and paint]].

Produced in the United States, the voice recording was done in Canada and the show was animated in Japan and South Korea. Most of the animation was outsourced to [[Madhouse (company)|Madhouse]], [[Mook Animation]] in Japan, [[DR Movie]], and WHITE LINE in South Korea.

While no official statement has come down on why the show ended after season 4, the show's co-producer, Robert N. Skir, has stated that it most likely came down to WB wanting show changes as well as business strategy moves with Nickelodeon in 2003.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bobulinksi |first1=Andrew |last2=Blake |first2=Kinsey |title=An Interview with Robert N. Skir |url=https://conventionalrelations.net/2020/11/11/an-interview-with-robert-n-skir/ |website=conventionalrelations.net |date=November 11, 2020 |access-date=20 April 2024}}</ref>

==Successors==
The show gave birth to a new series, ''[[Wolverine and the X-Men (TV series)|Wolverine and the X-Men]]'', which premiered on January 23, 2009 and lasted for only one season when it was cancelled on November 29, 2009. Although was not a continuation of ''X-Men: Evolution'', the same creative team was behind the show: Craig Kyle, Chris Yost, Steven E. Gordon, Greg Johnson and Boyd Kirkland all returned to work on the series.

In 2012, Jean Grey and Robert Kelly made guest appearances in the ''[[Iron Man: Armored Adventures]]'' episode "The X-Factor", with [[Venus Terzo]] and [[Dale Wilson (actor)|Dale Wilson]] reprising their roles from ''X-Men: Evolution''.

==Reception==
According to [[IGN]], the show aired "much to X-fans' initial protests and lamentations."<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://ca.ign.com/articles/2011/05/31/the-x-mens-tv-history?page=2|title = The X-Men's TV History|date = May 31, 2011|access-date = June 14, 2014|website = IGN|publisher = IGN Entertainment, Inc}}</ref> [[RPGnet]] enjoyed ''Evolution''<nowiki/>'s second season, hailing it as the show's "transition season." An improvement over the show's first season "in every way," ''X-Men: Evolution'', according to RPGnet, "introduc[ed] many ... re-imagined characters from X-Men lore that will certainly entertain the X-Men fans," specifically Beast and Principal Kelley. RPGnet wrote, "Some episodes could easily be cut out of the show and they would not be missed," describing the dialogue as "atrocious at times" and some of the characters as "very one dimensional."<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.rpg.net/reviews/archive/12/12924.phtml|title = Review of X-Men: Evolution Season Two|access-date = June 12, 2014|website = RPGnet|publisher = Skotos Tech, Inc}}</ref> Positively, Fred Choi of ''[[The Tech (newspaper)|The Tech]]'' hailed ''X-Men: Evolution'' as "the best incarnation of X-Men yet," admitting that "There are a few changes which will send [[wikt:purist|purist]]s howling in the streets." Choi acknowledged that "The students generally have abilities more powerful than they ever had in the comics," specifically mentioning intangible Shadowcat and telekinetic Jean Grey. While praising the show's animation and music – "cleaner than the original series" – Choi described the transformation of Rogue "into a reclusive goth chick" as " completely baffling but surprisingly palatable."<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://tech.mit.edu/V122/N48/X-men.48a.html|title = X-Men: Evolution, Third Season|date = October 18, 2002|access-date = June 14, 2014|website = The Tech|last = Choi|first = Fred}}</ref>

Noting the show's treatment of its characters, specifically making them high school teenagers for thematic purposes as "admirable," John G. Nettles of [[PopMatters]] concluded, "What disappoints, however, is the sheer number of missed opportunities here and the decision to subscribe to the same old social norms."<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.popmatters.com/review/xmen-evolution/|title = X-Men: Evolution|access-date = June 12, 2014|website = PopMatters|publisher = PopMatters Media, Inc|last = John G.|first = Nettles}}</ref> Reviewing ''X-Men: Evolution''<nowiki/>'s third season, Filip Vukcevic of [[IGN]] was mixed in his analysis, deeming it inferior to ''X-Men: The Animated Series ''and concluding, "''Evolution ... ''will interest long-time X-fans, but the fluffy stories and underutilized character personalities ... will cause discerning viewers to zone out," suffering from its attempt "to cram everyone in." Additionally, the author felt that ''Evolution ''lacks the "visual flair" of ''The Batman'' and the "wit" of ''Teen Titans''. The author also panned the series' "average" voice acting, feeling that Magneto, Wolverine and Beast were "miscast."  He also noted that combined with "inventive gags," "the show does its best to make the most of the mutants' powers" because "The fight scenes are fun to watch if only to see how the characters interact."<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2006/06/09/x-men-evolution-the-complete-third-season|title = X-Men: Evolution - The Complete Third Season|date = June 9, 2006|access-date = June 12, 2014|website = IGN|publisher = [[News Corporation (1980–2013)|News Corporation]]|last = Vukcevic|first = Filip}}</ref>

==Awards and nominations==
''X-Men: Evolution'' won the award for ''Outstanding Sound Mixing – Special Class'' at the [[28th Daytime Emmy Awards]], on May 18, 2001<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=234 |title='Batman Beyond,' 'X-Men: Evolution' win Daytime Emmys |first=Beau |last=Yarbrough |date=May 21, 2001 |work=[[Comic Book Resources]] |access-date=June 8, 2011}}</ref> and won the award for ''Outstanding Sound Editing – Live Action and Animation'' at the [[30th Daytime Emmy Awards]], on May 16, 2003.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0247827/awards IMDb.com: "X-Men: Evolution" (2000) – Awards]</ref>

It also won the ''Cover of the Year Award'' in 2004 for best animated figure for Beast. It was nominated for several [[Motion Picture Sound Editors|Golden Reel Awards]], as well as other Emmys. [[Steven E. Gordon]], the director of this show, was nominated in the ''Production Design in an Animated Television Production'' category for ''X-Men: Evolution'' at the 2001 [[Annie Award]]s.

==Analysis==
===Comparison with original comics===
The ''X-Men: Evolution'' series was targeted at a younger audience and as such portrays the majority of characters as adolescents rather than adults like in ''X-Men: The Animated Series''.<ref name="Ten years tough for X-Men"/> In the series, like many animated series based on comics, completely new characters were introduced including [[Spyke]].<ref>{{cite news|title= The X-teens|newspaper= [[Sun-Sentinel]]|publisher=[[Tronc|Tribune Publishing]]|url= http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2000-12-10/entertainment/0012080789_1_ultimate-x-men-diamond-comics-distributors-superheroes/2|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120524102140/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2000-12-10/entertainment/0012080789_1_ultimate-x-men-diamond-comics-distributors-superheroes/2|url-status= dead|archive-date= May 24, 2012|access-date=October 23, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=The History of Wolverine and the X-Men on TV|website=[[IGN]]|publisher=Ziff Davis|url=http://uk.tv.ign.com/articles/709/709943p3.html|access-date=October 23, 2010}}</ref> As much of the cast were teenagers, they are shown regularly attending high school in addition to the Xavier's Institute. At the latter, Professor X, Storm, Wolverine and later Beast also acted as their teachers at the institute. Beast also served as a chemistry teacher to the cast at high school prior to his transformation.

''X-Men: Evolution'' is set in [[Bayville, New York]], the state established in the episode "The Beast of Bayville", where Kitty Pryde receives a package from her parents addressed to Bayville, New York. Furthermore, in the early part of the series (until the end of season 2) most people are unaware of the existence of mutants. Also, the "Brotherhood" team is not known as the "Brotherhood of Evil Mutants" within the context of this series. They are not a team of terrorists or mutant supremacists. Instead, the Brotherhood is made up of misfit mutants and [[juvenile delinquents]] who often oppose the X-Men (in physical, social and philosophical realms).

The series was created as a stark contrast to ''X-Men: The Animated Series''. The series' [[Bible (screenwriting)|bible]] was written by [[Robert N. Skir]] and Marty Isenberg (albeit uncredited), who meant to take The X-Men back to their roots as high school students learning to control their superpowers, as when the comics termed them "The Strangest Teens of All".{{Citation needed|date=October 2008}} Whereas the Fox series reflected the then-current role of X-Men as freedom fighters battling persecution and bigotry against mutantkind, ''X-Men: Evolution'' used the theme of mutant powers as a metaphor for the struggles of adolescence.<ref name="Ten years tough for X-Men"/>

The look of the series was designed by Producer [[Boyd Kirkland]] and artist [[Frank Paur]], who created new costumes for the X-Men, replacing the comics-faithful designs of ''X-Men: The Animated Series'' with [[anime]]-influenced costumes which were much more animation-friendly.

The first season mainly concerned the characters' conflict with Magneto's Brotherhood of Mutants as well as served as an introductory to many of the characters to allow people to get used to these new teenage versions. Later seasons predominantly featured Apocalypse as an adversary, introduced versions of the [[New Mutants]], [[Morlocks (comics)|Morlocks]] and Magneto's Acolytes as well as posed the U.S. Government as an adversary to all parties.

The series revealed a detailed knowledge of canon history in a number of small ways. Examples include the evolution of Cerebro from a console device, Shadowcat's initial uneasiness around Nightcrawler and [[Forge (comics)|Forge]]'s scientific arrogance along with his devices causing [[unintended consequence]]s. Rogue is shown to absorb Cyclops' powers in the correct manner. In the Fox series, she also absorbed his lack of control over his beams (which was a result of a brain injury, not inherent in his powers). ''X-Men: Evolution'' shows her with full control over them, just as Scott would if he had not sustained a brain injury. In "Survival of the Fittest", Xavier says that Juggernaut acquired his powers through mysticism (but unlike the comic, says that it unlocked a latent mutant power), and in "The Cauldron" Magneto develops his mutant-enhancing technology from that same Jewel of Cyttorak (but says that he has found it to be scientific rather than mystical). In "Day of Recovery", [[Toad (Marvel Comics)|Toad]] is seen to be quite comfortable with technology and in "Operation Rebirth", the [[Prisoner of war|POW]] camp Magneto is held in as a child is visually similar (in the opening shot) to [[Auschwitz concentration camp|Auschwitz]], though it is not identified as such.

In addition, [[Beast (Marvel Comics)|Beast]]'s origin is almost identical to that of the comic, despite the change in profession and setting. [[Mesmero]] is shown as part of a circus troupe, much like his appearance in the "Phoenix Saga". Aside from this, supporting characters like Bolivar Trask, Nick Fury, Captain America, Destiny, Agatha Harkness and Amanda Sefton were all taken from the X-Men comic, usually serving to homage to originals without necessarily staying completely faithful to their form.

Another difference between the comic and the show is the name changes. Toad, originally Mortimer Toynbee, is changed to Todd Tolansky who has a [[New York Accent]], and Avalanche, originally Dominic Petros, is changed to Lance Alvers. Both changed names are a play on their codenames. Also, their nationalities were changed to American from, respectively, British and Greek.

===Evolution characters in the comics and films===
[[X-23]], an original character introduced in later seasons,<ref name="episode X-23"/> made her comic book debut in the miniseries ''[[NYX (comics)|NYX]]'',<ref name="Unlimited Highlights: X-23"/> where her appearance was slightly altered to more closely resemble Wolverine. She received a self-titled comic miniseries in 2005.<ref name="Unlimited Highlights: X-23"/><ref name="X-23 #1"/> Much like [[Harley Quinn]] of ''[[Batman: The Animated Series]]'', [[Batman (Terry McGinnis)|Terry McGinnis]] of ''[[Batman Beyond]]'', [[Cinderblock (character)|Cinderblock]] of ''[[Teen Titans (TV series)|Teen Titans]]'', or Marvel's own [[Firestar (Marvel Comics)|Firestar]] of ''[[Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends]]'', she was a character originally created for an animated series that was incorporated into comic book [[Canon (fiction)|canon]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Marjorie Liu brings humanity to the tortured teen of 'X-23' |first=Brian |last=Truitt |url=https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/life/comics/2010-09-15-x23-ST_N.htm |newspaper=[[USA Today]]|publisher=[[Gannett Company]]|date=September 15, 2010 |access-date=June 8, 2011}}</ref> The character of Dr. [[Deborah Risman]] which created X-23, the clone of Wolverine,<ref name="episode X-23">{{Cite episode |title=X-23 |episode-link=List of X-Men: Evolution_episodes#Season three |series=X-Men: Evolution |credits=Curt Geda (d), Craig Kyle (w) and Chris Yost (w) |network=[[Kids' WB]] |airdate=August 2, 2003 |season=3 |number=11 }}</ref> was also created for the show and was replaced with a similar character named Dr. Sarah Kinney in the miniseries ''X-23''.<ref name="Unlimited Highlights: X-23">{{cite web |url=http://marvel.com/news/story/13696/unlimited_highlights_x-23 |title=Unlimited Highlights: X-23 |author=Ben Chabala |date=August 19, 2010 |work=[[Marvel.com]] |access-date=June 7, 2011}}</ref><ref name="X-23 #1">[[Chris Yost]] (w), Jonathan Sibal (i), ''[[X-23]]'' No. 1 (January 12, 2005), [[Marvel Comics]]</ref> She later made appearances in the television series ''[[Wolverine and the X-Men (TV series)|Wolverine and the X-Men]]'', and in the films ''[[Logan (film)|Logan]]'' and ''[[Deadpool & Wolverine]]'', portrayed by [[Dafne Keen]].

The comic book ''[[X-Statix]]'' featured an African-American mutant with the same codename and abilities as Spyke; however, this version of Spyke was not related to Storm, had a very different personality (modeled after popular [[gangsta rap]]pers), and is a completely separate character. Another similar character appeared in ''[[X-Men: The Last Stand]]'', but as a member of the Brotherhood of Mutants. He is listed as Spike in the credits, but is not mentioned by name in the film, and has no dialogue. When Wolverine invades the forest base of the Brotherhood, Spike is one of the characters that attacks him, demonstrating abilities identical to those shown by the Spyke character before he lost control of his mutation. Another similar character, who bears a greater resemblance to Spyke appears in ''[[X-Men: Days of Future Past]]'', but again, he is not named. In the canon, Storm has a teenaged cousin, not a nephew, named David Evans, but he is apparently too young to display any mutant abilities.

===Marvel references and cameos===
''X-Men: Evolution'' weaves many references and cameos into its show. One of the masks worn by the vandals in the Season 3 episode "Mainstream", bears a suitable resemblance to the classic Marvel Comics monster, [[Fin Fang Foom]]. In the Season 3 episode "Under Lock and Key", circumstances gather a mix of X-Men, junior members, and nonmembers into a mission team that matches the original X-Men team (Cyclops, Jean Grey, Beast, Iceman, and Angel)—Iceman mentions that this is "definitely the cool team."{{Citation needed|date=May 2016}} In the Season 3 episode "Dark Horizons Part 1" when Rogue enters Kitty's room, Kitty is seen sleeping with a stuffed purple dragon, a reference to [[Lockheed (comics)|Lockheed]], her purple dragon companion. Also in "Dark Horizons Part 2", Nightcrawler, Colossus, and Shadowcat are grouped together when the X-Men and the Acolytes are separated, a reference to the Europe-based superhero team [[Excalibur (comics)|Excalibur]] which included all three mutants in its roster.{{Citation needed|date=May 2016}}

[[Captain America]] is the only non-mutant Marvel superhero and mutate to appear on ''Evolution''. There is also, however, a small [[Iron Man]] reference in the episode "On Angel's Wings", when a sign reading "Stark Enterprises" is seen during an exterior shot of New York City and a small [[Spider-Man]] reference when Angel was reading the Daily Bugle, the newspaper that Peter Parker/Spider-Man normally takes pictures for. In addition, [[Omega Red]] mentions [[David North (comics)|Maverick]] and [[Kestrel (Marvel Comics)|Kestrel]] in the episode "Target X", referring to the latter as "Wraith". In "Dark Horizons Part 2" the hieroglyphics translated by Beast refer to the Pharaoh Rama-Tut, one identity of [[Kang the Conqueror]].

==Home media release==
===iTunes===
All four seasons are available for download in SD format on [[iTunes]] (Only available for America), being released in 2009 by Marvel. All 4 seasons immediately broke into the Top 10 Animation charts on iTunes, with season 4 peaking at #3.

===DVD===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
!rowspan="2"|Name
!colspan="3"|Release dates
!rowspan="2"|Ep&nbsp;#
!rowspan="2"|Additional information
|-
!Region 1
!Region 2
!Region 4
|-
|UnXpected Changes
|September 23, 2003
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|Season one, volume one
|-
|Xplosive Days
|September 23, 2003
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|Season one, volume two
|-
|X Marks the Spot
|September 23, 2003
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|Season one, volume three
|-
|Xposing the Truth
|September 23, 2003
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|4
|Season one, volume four
|-
|Mutants Rising
|February 10, 2004
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|4
|Season two, volume one
|-
|Powers Revealed
|February 10, 2004
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|4
|Season two, volume two
|-
|Enemies Unveiled
|June 29, 2004
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|4
|Season two, volume three
|-
|Mystique's Revenge
|November 23, 2004
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|5
|Season two, volume four
|-
|The Complete Third Season
|May 23, 2006
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|13
|
|-
|The Complete Fourth Season
|TBA
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|9
|
|-
|The Complete Animated Series
|TBA
|TBA
|TBA
| style="text-align:center;"|52
|
|}

===Streaming services===
* '''Disney+''' - All four seasons are currently available as of May 2024 in the United States only.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Watch X-Men: Evolution {{!}} Full episodes {{!}} Disney+ |url=https://www.disneyplus.com/en-us/series/x-men-evolution/6hdQOcPT2QeV |access-date=2022-09-19 |website=www.disneyplus.com |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=X-Men: Evolution {{!}} Where to Stream and Watch |url=https://decider.com/show/x-men-evolution/ |access-date=2022-09-19 |website=[[Decider (website)|Decider]] |date=December 22, 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref>
* '''Netflix''' - The series is not available on [[Netflix]], though the DVDs were available as part of their now defunct DVD by mail service.
* '''YouTube''' - All four seasons were uploaded on [[YouTube]], however [[Marvel Entertainment]]'s YouTube channel listed them as private.
* '''Google Play''' - All four seasons are currently available on [[Google Play]], although the show is inaccessible in some countries, such as Poland.
* '''Hulu''' - Hulu had all episodes available on streaming as early as 2009. However, it is no longer available.<ref name=":0" />
* '''Amazon''' - All four seasons are currently available on [[Amazon Instant Video]].<ref name=":0" />
* '''iTunes''' - All four seasons are currently available for purchase on the [[iTunes Store]].
* '''HBO Max''' - All four seasons are currently available in HD on streaming in Latin America since September 17, 2022.<ref>{{Cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/hbomaxbr/status/1571106708545339392 |number=1571106708545339392 |access-date=2023-03-07 |title=SCOOOOOOOTTT!!! |user=HBOMaxBR |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/hbomaxla/status/1565392064111599616 |number=1565392064111599616 |access-date=2023-03-07  |title=Al diablo el zodiaco, dime tu canción favorita de #Elvis 😍 |user=HBOMaxLA |language=en}}</ref>

==Merchandise==
===Comic books===
In January 2002, [[Marvel Comics]] began publishing an ''X-Men: Evolution'' comic book, partially based on the show. Written by [[Devin K. Grayson]] with art by [[Studio XD]], it was abruptly canceled after the ninth issue due to low sales. The series has been reprinted in two [[Trade paperback (comics)|trade paperback]]s.<ref>{{cite book |title=Marvel graphic novels and related publications: an annotated guide to comics, prose novels, children's books, articles, criticism and reference works, 1965–2005 |last=Weiner |first=Robert G.|year=2008 |publisher=McFarland |isbn=978-0-7864-2500-6 |pages=<!--227–229-->385 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=npIsZV7grboC&pg=PA115 |access-date=June 8, 2011}}</ref>

The comic introduced the ''Evolution'' version of the Morlocks before they appeared on the show, and their appearances and motivations were radically different in both versions. It also featured an appearance from [[Mimic (comics)|Mimic]] who never appeared on the show.

An ongoing plot line would have introduced the ''Evolution'' version of [[Mister Sinister]], but the comic was canceled before it could be resolved. However, the cover of the unreleased issue 10 does reveal his intended character design.

===Action figurines===
[[Marvel Toys|Toy Biz]] created a line of [[action figure]]s. [[Taco Bell]] ran the first ''X-Men: Evolution'' themed promotion with its Kid's Meals.<ref>{{cite news |title=X-Men Dine at Taco Bell; 2001: No Big Odyssey |author=David Finnigan |url=http://www.allbusiness.com/marketing-advertising/branding-brand-development/4673722-1.html |newspaper=[[Brandweek]] |date=January 1, 2001 |access-date=June 8, 2011}}</ref> [[Burger King]] also ran a Kid's Meal promotion which included ''X-Men: Evolution'' toys. Each toy included a mini-disc with games, screen-savers, and a mini-comic related to the character. The lineup included Rogue, Mystique, Cyclops, Wolverine, Magneto, Quicksilver, Nightcrawler, and Toad.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=683 |title=Marvel and Burger King team up for X-Men Evolution promotion |author=Jonah Weiland |date=December 19, 2001 |work=[[Comic Book Resources]]|access-date=October 23, 2010}}</ref>

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Wikiquote}}
* {{IMDb title|id=0247827|title=X-Men: Evolution}}

{{X-Men media}}
{{Marvel animation}}
{{Film Roman}}
{{Kids' WB}}
{{Portal bar|Television|United States|Speculative fiction|Cartoon}}

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