Ep 10. Beauty and the Beast

In X-Men: The Animated Series season 2 episode 10, titled "Beauty and the Beast", we see a different side of the mutant characters as the show takes a deep dive into one of the lesser-known mutants. The episode brings a refreshing change to the show's usual action-packed episodes and instead focuses more on the emotions and struggles of the characters.

The main plot of the episode revolves around the character of Hank McCoy, also known as Beast. Beast is often seen as one of the more light-hearted and fun-loving members of the X-Men due to his witty humor and friendly demeanor. However, this episode delves deeper into Beast's personality, revealing his deepest fears, insecurities, and ultimately, his heart.

The opening scene displays the usual X-Men action that we have grown accustomed to. However, the focus soon changes with the introduction of a new character, Belle, who walks into the X-Mansion unannounced. Belle is a blind woman who is searching for Beast, as she believes that he may be the only one who can help her. Surprisingly, Beast and Belle have a prior relationship, and Belle is someone who Beast is very close to.

As the episode progresses, we see flashbacks to Beast's past and the moments he shared with Belle. The flashbacks reveal that Beast was not always the blue, furry creature we know him as, and in fact, he was a happy man with a successful career in genetics before he underwent an experiment to enhance his mutant abilities. The experiment went wrong, and he was left with his current appearance.

As Belle comes looking for Beast, the X-Men go on a search for her. The viewers are shown the impact Belle has on Beast, and how her mere presence makes him feel comfortable and at ease. However, the search for her leads to an unexpected confrontation between the X-Men and a group of thugs who try to harm Belle.

In the midst of this, we see that Beast is plagued with insecurities about his appearance and fears that he may scare Belle and make her uncomfortable. The viewers witness some heartwarming moments between the two characters, as Belle assures Beast that it is who he is on the inside that counts, not his exterior appearance.

The episode highlights the beauty of the relationship between Belle and Beast- and how romantic and pure love can be. It also showcases that as mutants, the characters face issues that go beyond their powers and abilities. This episode's main theme is self-acceptance, with Belle's love and acceptance of Beast's monstrous appearance leading him to accept himself more.

The plot takes an interesting turn as a group of hunters start to hunt Belle, assuming that she is causing the disappearances of livestock in the area. It leads to a beautiful climax, where Beast protects Belle and the two realize that they have grown in love with each other. The ending scene showcases the two exchanging a heartfelt conversation about their love, which leaves the viewers with a warm feeling.

Overall, X-Men: The Animated Series season 2 episode 10, "Beauty and the Beast," stands out as a beautifully written and heartwarming episode in the series. It deviates from the usual action-packed episodes but still manages to maintain the excitement and suspense that the show is known for. The episode's primary focus on character development and emotions makes it a must-watch for all X-Men fans.