Originally published at: https://geektherapy.org/soundtracks-of-power-musical-anatomy-of-a-superhero-returns-to-comic-con-with-exclusive-first-looks/
Author: Newsroom
One of San Diego Comic-Con’s most anticipated traditions returns in 2025 with The 11th Musical Anatomy of a Superhero and Other Heroes, a panel that dives deep into the sonic heartbeats of genre storytelling. Taking place on Thursday, July 24 from 10:00–11:00 AM in the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel, this year’s session is set to feature never-before-heard music and exclusive visuals from Avatar: Fire and Ash and Fantastic Four: First Steps.
Moderated by none other than Oscar-winning composer Michael Giacchino, the panel brings together the creative forces behind some of today’s most dynamic film, television, and game scores. Giacchino’s own musical legacy includes Up, The Incredibles, LOST, and Spider-Man: No Way Home—and now continues with Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps, hitting theaters this summer.
This year’s panel lineup includes:
- Simon Franglen (Avatar: Fire & Ash)
- Mick Giacchino (The Penguin)
- Brandon Roberts (Andor)
- Alex Seaver (Arcane)
- Ian Chang (Thunderbolts)
Together, these composers will offer a rare glimpse into the process of scoring some of the most emotionally resonant and action-packed stories in modern media. The panel will showcase unreleased music and clips, and explore how music becomes an integral “character” in superhero storytelling—setting tone, enhancing stakes, and elevating moments of triumph or tragedy.
Musical Highlights to Watch For:
- Avatar: Fire and Ash, composed by Simon Franglen, follows up his sweeping score from The Way of Water. Expect epic soundscapes and immersive textures reflective of the franchise’s signature scale.
- Fantastic Four: First Steps will give audiences their first taste of what’s to come in the latest chapter of Marvel’s Phase 5—anchored by Giacchino’s emotive, heroic themes.
- Thunderbolts, scored by Son Lux’s Ian Chang, is expected to bring an experimental flair, following the band’s celebrated work on Everything Everywhere All at Once.
- Arcane Season 2, helmed musically by Alex Seaver, is fresh off a global top 10 run on Netflix. Seaver composed and executive produced a 22-track soundtrack featuring international stars and will preview new music tied to the series’ upcoming return.
- Andor composer Brandon Roberts—just nominated for an Emmy—continues to expand the Star Wars sound universe with fresh instrumentation and gritty undertones.
- Mick Giacchino, whose work on The Penguin (HBO/DC) has earned 2025 Emmy recognition, will share insight into crafting a noir-driven musical landscape for Gotham’s most complex villain.
Now in its 11th year, Musical Anatomy of a Superhero goes beyond behind-the-scenes tidbits—offering a masterclass in how sound shapes story. Produced by Costa Communications and supported by ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and the Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL), the panel is a must-attend for fans of film scores, aspiring composers, and anyone who’s ever teared up during a hero’s final stand thanks to a perfectly timed swell of strings.
Immediately following the panel, a press conference will be held from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM in Indigo Room 204A (Hilton San Diego Bayfront), offering additional insight into the musical themes and collaborative journeys behind these highly anticipated projects.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of film scores or simply curious about what makes your favorite superhero moments soar, this year’s Musical Anatomy of a Superhero promises a powerful and unforgettable experience.