A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE CURATOR: This episode of X-Men was not the show’s crowning glory, but it had a certain je ne sais quoi that made it unforgettable. Imagine this: only half of the original superhero squad shows up, they’re in a bizarre new locale, and there’s a bunch of baddies we’ve never seen before. It’s like the party everyone talks about because Jean Grey did something wild, but nobody actually saw it happen (because it literally happened off screen!).

My introduction to the series was a mere five-minute peek at the end of part one, yet it was enough to hook me for life. The episode ended with a blackout that was more dramatic than my aunt’s 80s hairdo, and Storm lit up the screen like a disco ball, promising more action to come. Suddenly, my old favourites looked about as exciting as watching paint dry. Sorry, Power Rangers and He-Man, but the X-Men were the new cool kids on the block. The first comic, with its fancy wraparound cover, was a gift from my mom (thanks, Mom!). Even as the legendary Claremont and Lee passed the torch, my loyalty didn’t waver. To this day, the X-Men are the superheroes of my heart.

So, this review might be as biased as a referee at a home game, but it’s genuine—this episode didn’t just change the channel; it changed my life.

The latest episode picks up right where the suspenseful cliff-hanger left us, thrusting us into a world where superheroes clash with timeless monsters. The standout moment? Ororo’s breath-taking performance. The Savage Land is shaken by an unexpected twist as Storm demonstrates her incredible mastery over the weather, almost obliterating it entirely. The episode’s zenith is marked by Storm’s heartfelt conversation with Rogue, revealing her exhilaration in harnessing her tumultuous powers—a sentiment that strikes a chord with us mere mortals who can’t summon storms. Alyson Seely-Smith‘s rendition of Storm, with her commanding voice, alongside a harmonious blend of music, sound effects, and dynamic visuals, takes the story to unparalleled levels.

Storm’s power to manipulate the weather isn’t as straightforward as it appears: she can influence the existing weather patterns and atmosphere, meaning she doesn’t create weather ex nihilo but modifies what’s already present. Such control necessitates a fine equilibrium, as altering weather in one locale can trigger unintended consequences nearby.

The imperative for perpetual vigilance is paramount, given that her abilities are intertwined with her emotions; intense emotions can inadvertently alter the weather. A lapse in control could precipitate disastrous meteorological events unintentionally. Hence, Storm is compelled to remain serene and concentrated to use her powers responsibly and effectively.

This facet of Storm’s character brings complexity, as she is not just a formidable mutant, but also one who wields her abilities with conscientious discipline and self-awareness. It serves as a metaphor for the principle that great power entails great responsibility, underscoring the significance of self-restraint and awareness.

While this episode may have inadvertently made the Savage Land an area to be avoided for viewers, it wraps up a narrative that has been remarkably erratic. Crucially, it provides a gratifying finale: the vision of Storm in her domain, unleashing her magnificent fury.

Under Garokk‘s control, Storm wreaks havoc in the Savage Land, causing disasters like flash floods and snowstorms. Garokk is siphoning her powers, liberating himself from his own statue.

To save Storm, Ka-Zar proposes sending Karl Lykos to drain her powers and break Garokk’s hold. The X-Men and Ka-Zar distract Storm, allowing Rogue and Lykos to approach. Rogue propels Lykos towards Storm, and he absorbs her power, transforming into Sauron. Sauron betrays the X-Men, and in the ensuing battle, Rogue and the now unconscious Storm use their powers against each other.

At Ka-Zar’s village, the locals worship Garokk’s statue, seeking to curb his influence. Storm, still under mind control, attacks them until Beast sedates her. Sauron confronts Zaladane, who dismisses him from Garokk’s scheme. Enraged, Sauron attempts to control Zaladane, but Garokk restrains him. Garokk recounts his past reign over the Savage Land, ended by the High Evolutionary‘s curse. Storm’s powers revived him, and he manipulated Sauron to capture her for her energy.

As Garokk battles the X-Men and an awakened Storm, he absorbs her powers, aiming to activate the Savage Land’s volcanoes and construct a colossal form for himself. Sauron, resentful of Garokk, enlarges himself using the lava’s energy to challenge him. Their clash results in an explosion, reverting Garokk to a statue. Lykos, now free from Sauron’s persona, unites with the villagers, and the X-Men depart for home.

In the wild world of the X-Men, Storm usually keeps her cool better than a cucumber in a freezer. But hold onto your hats, because in Uncanny X-Men #147, she went full tempest, losing control in a way that would make even a weatherman weep. Meanwhile, Garokk pops up like an unwanted jack-in-the-box, claiming his freedom came courtesy of the X-Men’s spring cleaning in the Savage Land after Reunion – talk about a messy aftermath! And as for TV time, Garokk’s face didn’t grace the screen again after his animated antics. But comic-wise, he couldn’t stay away, coming back in issue Uncanny X-Men #149 with a vendetta against Storm and Kitty Pryde that was hotter than a summer in the Sahara. It seems some characters just can’t let go of a grudge, even if they have to wait 33 issues to do it!

The High Evolutionary sneaks in with a silent cameo, only to strut onto the scene in full glory in Family Ties.

Rogue stumbles upon the existence of Zaladane. It’s a blink-and-you-miss-it moment since the two never actually cross paths and Zaladane vanishes from the series faster than a teleporting Nightcrawler. However, comic aficionados will recall their epic showdown with Magneto in Uncanny X-Men #275, where Zaladane definitely got the short end of the magnetic stick against a fuming Erik. The real zinger? Zaladane’s potential family tree connection with Magneto’s daughter Lorna remains as murky as the waters of the Savage Land!

Savage Land, Strange Heart (Part 1) | The Dark Phoenix Saga (Part 1): Dazzled