The latest Marvel Rising animated special has just been released on the Marvel HQ YouTube Channel. Marvel Rising: Battle of the Bands focuses on Ghost-Spider as she participates in a “Battle of the Bands” competition. But when mysterious attacks cause he to swing into action with the Secret Warriors, her future with her band is put in jeopardy.
Dove Cameron (Ghost-Spider) continues to deliver strong performances throughout her work. She is joined by voice over legends such as Dee Bradley Baker (Tippy-Toe) and Tara Strong (Screaming Mimi). Other Disney Channel talent joining Ms. Cameron includes Kamil McFadden (Patriot), Sofia Wylie (Ironheart) and Skai Jackson (Gloria).
This go-around, the story is a bit of a mix between a classic Spider-Man tale and one of the better episodes of Jem. The challenge Gwen faces of balancing your super hero life with your personal life is not unfamiliar. What is different is seeing how a relatively new character to the Marvel Universe deals with it with her just-as-new team.
Battle of the Bands is a bit more low-key in terms of the scope of the story which reminds me of the early days of the classic Spider-Man cartoon of the 90’s. I like that it gave us some time to get to know a key member of the team while battling a villain that was done in a classic rogue’s gallery style. And while the threat is not the world destroying type, the episode does show how any “bad guy” can cause harm and fear.
I really enjoy the Marvel Rising series. The stories are fun and presented in a new way. That being said, they still are filled with the action and adventure you expect from Marvel.
My only regret is that the Marvel Rising content seems to come at odd intervals with not much notice. In fact, this installment was announced at the D23 Expo, just days before it debuted. With that in mind, I have no idea when the next Marvel Rising short or special will be released, but whenever it happens, I will be watching.
Marvel Rising: Battle of the Bands is currently available on the Marvel HQ YouTube channel and will be available on the DisneyNOW app on August 29, 2019.