Disney’s “Phineas and Ferb” Go on Summer Adventure, Team with Marvel Superheroes
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| July 26, 2012
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Disney’s "Phineas and Ferb" teams up with Marvel
characters for "Mission Marvel."
characters for "Mission Marvel."
It’s been a smoking hot summer and it’s getting hotter, especially for Disney’s animated series “Phineas and Ferb.” Disney is investing in ways to expand show’s empire: a nationwide tour this summer involving a converted bus dubbed “Perry the Platy-bus,” teaming up with Marvel superheroes and airing “Where’s My Perry,” a 2-part special on TV and online in which the show’s leads, 2 stepbrothers on summer vacation, discover that their domesticated pet/secret agent goes missing. And did I mention mobile games, new grocery and footwear partnerships? CableFAX spoke with the series’ producers Dan Povenmire and Jeff Marsh about the characters’ summer adventures.
What’s the storyline of “Where’s Perry?”
Povenmire: In Part 1, premiering July 26 at 9pm, Phineas and Ferb go on an African safari vacation while their loyal pet platypus Perry stays back to handle a Dr. Doofenshmirtz emergency. As the story unfolds, Dr. Doofenshmirtz tries to take over the OWCA with his ultimate evil-inator. Perry was hit by several of the “-inators,” causing him to disappear and quickly promoting the question: Where’s Perry?
The search for Perry continues with the cross-country Perry the Platy-bus tour, which will travel to state fairs and tourist destinations. Along the way, fans can join the mission to bring Perry back home. Perry’s fate will be revealed during "Where’s Perry? Part Two" August 24 on Disney Channel.
What’s your inspiration? What’s the message from the series?
Povenmire: When we were kids we would spend all summer outside, doing fun creative things, but kids today, because of video games, smartphones, aren’t doing physical activities as much. It’s about bringing a boy’s summer experience as we remember it.
Marsh: It’s also about creating a family experience. The series was made for kids but was smart enough to entertain adults. TV has become more segmented because you have TV Everywhere at home. It’s definitely a great experience if you have something that the whole family can watch together.
How’s your collaboration with Marvel?
Marsh: It’s challenging and fun. Both of us have strict rules about our characters. Blending those together has been a learning experience.
Povenmire: Good thing Marvel is already a fan of our series. The production is going well.
Come on, tell us a little bit about Mission Marvel [a series in production with characters from both franchises]? Are the superheroes on a mission to save the boys?
Povenmire: You will just have to wait. Who knows? Maybe the boys will save Spiderman, Thor, Iron Man and Hulk!