X-Men '97's fifth episode of its second season, "Weapon X, Lies, and DVDs," delivers a narrative steeped in '80s action movie homages, drawing clear inspiration from films like Predator and Aliens. The episode centers on Wolverine leading a team, including Sabretooth, Lady Deathstrike, and Maverick, into a new Weapon X facility. However, the outing is criticized for not fully capitalizing on Wolverine's altered status quo following the loss of his adamantium in the previous season.
While the action-packed infiltration provides a welcome callback to classic '80s action films, the episode also dedicates considerable time to the character of Morph. This focus allows for a deeper exploration of Morph's relationship with Wolverine, raising questions about the nature of their bond. The portrayal of Morph's feelings, whether pure friendship or unrequited love, is highlighted as a significant strength, suggesting the character deserves more screen time.
A recurring critique of X-Men '97 is its tendency to accelerate through source material, and this episode is no exception. The introduction of the Brood, while visually referencing a classic comic cover, is treated as a plot device to push Wolverine back toward the adamantium bonding tank, rather than being presented as a substantial threat in their own right. This rapid pacing also affects the resolution of Wolverine's adamantium subplot. The swift return of his adamantium, hinted at in trailers, leaves little room for exploration of the psychological and physical fallout that characterized similar comic storylines for years. This rushed conclusion neglects the significant narrative potential inherent in Logan grappling with his post-adamantium identity.
The episode's focus on Morph, while beneficial for that character, means Wolverine's own internal struggles are understated. The revelation that he feels diminished without his claws resonates, but the series is faulted for not delving deeper into this predicament before his adamantium was restored. The potential for a narrative akin to Season 1's "Lifedeath" episodes, which deeply explored Logan's mindset, is seen as a missed opportunity. Ultimately, "Weapon X, Lies, and DVDs" is described as an entertaining episode that could have offered more profound character development for Wolverine.