Yep, we’ve got more kids’ TV voiceacting here. Welcome to the Wayne definitely remains my favorite kids’ show Andrew Rannells has been in, but Vampirina always seems to make good use of him when he pops up, which I appreciate.
In “The Curious Case of the Giggles,” Vampirina is visited by Dr. Heidi Jekyll (get it?), a young monster scientist who asks for her help in mixing a new potion. Vampirina is eager to help out, but she’s concerned when she notices how upset Heidi gets over an unusual condition she has, turning into a troll whenever she laughs. And in “International Treasure,” King Pepi excitedly/anxiously prepares for an important ceremony naming his niece Nefi his heir, but he’s not sure she’s ready to handle it. When a crucial ceremonial headdress goes missing, Vampirina and her friends pitch in to help search for it scavenger-hunt-style.
This is pretty standard Vampirina, which is enjoyable for what it is. It’s crammed full of puns – in addition to Heidi’s punny name, she also consults the “Feariodic Table” of monster elements – has obvious but earnest lessons to teach, and features a couple entertaining songs. This episode gets extra points for its smart-girl guest stars. While Heidi is a monstrous STEM whiz, King Pepi’s niece Nefi has been studying up on all things ancient Egypt, which comes in handy on their historical scavenger hunt. Both girls are also a little heavier than Vampirina and her slim friends, and body diversity is always nice to see, especially in kids’ TV.
As usual, Rannells is a lot of fun here. In addition to playing the vain and excitable pharaoh, I enjoy seeing him framed as the doting but slightly nervous uncle. Rannells plays off of his young costars well, especially the girl playing Nefi.
One of the best things that Rannells’s appearances on Vampirina have to offer is that the show never neglects him when it comes to the songs. This time around, he’s got a quick ditty about the importance of tradition among mummies. It’s cute, Rannells sounds great as usual, and it includes the amusing line, “So come on, let’s all party like it’s BC 95!” Take note, Ridley Jones: this is how you cast Andrew Rannells as an animated mummy on a kids’ show that includes singing (which is weirdly specific but definitely true.)
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