Let me start by saying that my initial thoughts about the Cloak & Dagger tv series were off base. I’m referring to when it was first announced, specifically the fact that it was going to be on Freeform. Prior to the name change, the network had a reputation for showing angsty teen dramas and family-friendly fare. I don’t even read YA and was convinced, even though it’s a Marvel property, they would take the story in the wrong direction and make it even more Romeo and Juliet. Thankfully, that’s not the case. 

One of the changes they’ve made with the story is to not have the main characters, Tandy and Tyrone, as a couple. There is (for the moment, at least) no romantic connection between them. They have been drawn together by circumstances well beyond their control and are trying to figure out what’s going on. Their powers were caused by an explosion at a Roxxon facility – a company present throughout the Marvel universe, known for its questionable tactics and experiments.

Tandy’s father was killed just prior to the explosion. He worked for Roxxon and the company manipulated things to put the blame for the accident on him. Tandy’s mom has been trying to get his name cleared for years and when even more starts happening, Tandy realizes she needs to find out what’s going on. For the first time in a Marvel series, Roxxon is at the forefront and fans may finally be getting some real answers, which is great considering all the little hints in so many other Marvel properties.

Having watched a few episodes of the series, I’m pleased to say that it fits right in with the feel of other Marvel shows – in other words, it doesn’t feel tailored to a teen market or family channel. It easily stands alongside Agents of SHIELD and even some of the Netflix shows in terms of quality, both in storytelling and character development. And it doesn’t pull any punches with commentary on social issues from race to drugs. It’s definitely a show worth watching, especially for Marvel fans.