What Is Tiger & Bunny: The Rising About?
The premise of Tiger & Bunny: The Rising in 317 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the gleaming, hero-saturated city of Stern Bild, where television ratings and corporate sponsorships fuel the public’s love for superpowered protectors, the beloved partnership of Wild Tiger and Barnaby Brooks Jr. faces an unexpected upheaval. The veteran hero Kotetsu T. Kaburagi—known to the world as the masked, plunger-wielding Wild Tiger—finds himself suddenly dismissed from Apollon Media’s star roster, replaced by a flashy new hero at the order of the company’s ambitious new owner, Mark Schneider. For Kotetsu, the decision cuts deeper than professional disappointment; it forces him to confront a life without the cape and the city that has defined him for years.
As Barnaby Brooks Jr. is paired with the enigmatic Golden Ryan, a powerhouse with gravity-bending abilities, the once inseparable duo must navigate their new reality separately. Barnaby, driven and idealistic, must learn to trust a partner whose methods and personality differ vastly from the reckless, warmhearted veteran he once relied upon. Meanwhile, Kotetsu drifts through his old haunts, grappling with a quieter existence that never quite feels like home, supported by the gentle encouragement of his family and the everyday friends he left behind.
Strange occurrences begin to ripple through Stern Bild—unusual phenomena that hint at something stirring just beneath the city’s shiny surface. These mysterious events pull heroes old and new into the fray, blurring the lines between established champions and those still searching for their place. Beneath the spectacle of parades, public ceremonies, and televised heroics, an undercurrent of tension builds, suggesting that loyalty, purpose, and legacy might all be tested in the days ahead.
At its heart, the story pulses with themes of identity, partnership, and what it truly means to be a hero when the spotlight shifts. The city’s celebratory atmosphere contrasts with quieter, more introspective moments, weaving a tone that balances thrilling superhero spectacle with the emotional weight of characters redefining themselves in a world that is always watching.
What Happens in Tiger & Bunny: The Rising?
The complete story of Tiger & Bunny: The Rising, from the first scene to the last, in 756 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
Taking place after the epilogue of episode 25, the citizens of Stern Bild are gearing up to celebrate Justice Day, a momentous occasion that commemorates a goddess who, long ago, brought justice to the people after a time of calamity and corruption. This festival is not just a day of festivities; it represents a time of reflection for the people in their pursuit of a just society. Concurrently, the media company Apollon Media has undergone a significant change in ownership, with Mark Schneider at the helm. He discovers that the hero division, especially the Second League, is lagging in profitability and decides it is time for some much-needed reforms.
When a purse snatcher is pursued by the Second League heroes, it is Barnaby who arrives just in time to put an end to the chaotic pursuit, following a rather destructive crash courtesy of Tiger. While the heroes manage to thwart a bank robbery, Rock Bison struggles to find his place within the fluctuating hero landscape, desperately trying to replicate Sky High’s iconic pose. In light of this, Barnaby expresses his desire to return to the First League, where he feels his abilities would be better utilized.
In a dramatic twist, both Tiger and Barnaby are summoned by Schneider, who announces their unexpected promotion back to the First League. However, at the ceremony, to everyone’s surprise, Schneider introduces Golden Ryan as a new hero to take Tiger’s place, deeming Kotetsu past his prime. Accepting this transition, Kotetsu prioritizes his partner’s success over his own aspirations.
On their first mission together, Barnaby and Ryan successfully manage to prevent a tower from collapsing, but Ryan’s overreliance on his gravity powers isolates the team from giving assistance. The following day, a devastating notice reaches the Second League when Schneider’s secretary, Virgil, informs them that their airtime segment has been canceled, leading to a period of introspection among the heroes. In an effort to uplift Kotetsu’s spirits, Kaede, his daughter, calls up Karina, also known as Blue Rose, for help.
As Justice Day unfolds, strange happenings surface, with witness accounts suggesting the emergence of the Legend of the Goddess. The heroes are informed of three new NEXT threats: Richard Max, a hyper-speed boxer; Kasha Graham, an illusionist belly dancer; and Priest Johnny Wong, an elderly figure who can send people into nightmarish comas. The confrontation escalates when Fire Emblem faces Wong and is trapped in a coma that forces him to confront his past regarding his identity, all the while causing his powers to spiral out of control. Blue Rose steps in to contain the chaos, showcasing not only her powers but also her unwavering support for her fellow heroes.
As the festival day arrives, Kotetsu’s family joins the celebrations, courtesy of Kaede’s acquired tickets through Blue Rose. Encouraged by her, Kotetsu embraces his heroic role, which brings him joy. Yet, the festivities are abruptly interrupted when the three NEXTs cause an implosion beneath the parade, triggering the Goddess’ final act. Realizing the imminent crisis, Kotetsu rushes back to the hospital to assist.
The ensuing battles are intense, with each hero facing their respective foes: Blue Rose and Dragon Kid confront Wong; Sky High, Rock Bison, and Origami Cyclone take on Richard Max; while Barnaby and Ryan team up against Kasha. A sudden twist occurs when Schneider is abducted by a monstrous robot, prompting Agnes to reinstate Tiger for the rescue mission, recognizing his indispensable capabilities.
Amidst fervent battles, notable declarations are made. As Dragon Kid praises Fire Emblem’s inherent strength and kindness live on television, he awakens from his coma, igniting his resolve to assist the team. In a climactic showdown, Barnaby and Kotetsu unite to confront the mastermind behind the chaos, Andrew Scott, who holds a personal vendetta against Schneider. The heroes engage in fierce combat, thwarting Andrew’s efforts to exact revenge, leading to a dramatic resolution where the duo showcases their elite teamwork and ultimately defeat Andrew just as Kotetsu’s powers begin to wane.
With the dawn breaking on their victory, Tiger and Barnaby receive accolades for their heroic comeback, drawing cheers from the citizens of Stern Bild. With Agnes now in charge, Wild Tiger is officially reinstated, allowing him to continue his partnership with Barnaby. The aftermath of the battles sees a revitalized Second League and a victorious cleanup effort. However, as changes unfold, Ryan receives an enticing offer from an overseas firm. In a playful post-credits scene, Tiger expresses a desire to take the wheel, which prompts an immediate and humorous retort from Barnaby, stating, “no.”
Tiger & Bunny: The Rising Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Justice Day Celebration” to “Tiger's Future”. 7 events name a place, across 6 locations.
- 1
Justice Day Celebration
The people of Stern Bild prepare to celebrate Justice Day, commemorating a goddess who once brought justice to the city. This annual event serves as a reminder of the past calamities that forced corruption to be addressed and repentance to take place.
Where:Stern Bild
- 2
Apollon Media's New Ownership
Mark Schneider officially takes ownership of Apollon Media and evaluates the hero division's performance. He quickly realizes that the Second League heroes are struggling with profitability and must make changes to improve their standing.
- 3
Barnaby Saves the Day
In a chaotic chase after a purse snatcher, Barnaby arrives just in time to resolve the situation after Tiger crashes into a warehouse. This showcases his heroic efficiency, contrasting the struggling Second League heroes.
Where:Warehouse
- 4
Second League Struggles
Rock Bison, struggling to find his place during the hero season, mimics the poses of his peers as part of his efforts. The competition’s pressure weighs heavily on the Second League as they fail to make a mark.
- 5
Promotion Ceremony
During a promotion ceremony, Schneider shocks the crowd by announcing that he hired Golden Ryan to replace Wild Tiger. This news leaves Kotetsu sidelined as he willingly steps back to allow Barnaby to rise once more in the ranks.
- 6
First Mission Together
Barnaby and Ryan team up on their first mission, successfully preventing a disaster involving a collapsing tower. However, Ryan's misuse of his gravity powers disrupts the teamwork and leaves the other heroes sidelined.
- 7
Cancellation of Airtime
The morale of the Second League plummets when they learn their airtime segment has been canceled by the Board of Directors. This decision marks a dark moment for the heroes who have already been struggling for recognition.
- 8
Encountering the NEXTs
The heroes divide into three groups to confront three powerful NEXTs who have appeared with strange abilities. Each hero faces a unique challenge that tests their skills and teamwork amidst rising tensions and fears.
Where:City Streets
- 9
Fire Emblem's Nightmare
Fire Emblem faces off against one of the NEXTs, Priest Johnny Wong, and is put into a coma, forced to relive painful memories. His internal struggle inadvertently affects his powers, creating chaos that other heroes must contain.
Where:Hospital
- 10
Day of the Festival
On the day of Justice Day's festival, Kotetsu's family visits, and Kaede encourages him to embrace his identity as a hero. The evening parade takes a shocking turn when the NEXTs create an implosion, setting off a chain of events threatening the city.
Where:Festival Grounds
Show the other 5 events of Tiger & Bunny: The Rising Hide the last 5 events
- 11
New Alliances Form
As the NEXTs engage in battle against the heroes during the festival, a sudden abduction of Schneider occurs by a monster robot. Kotetsu reestablishes his partnership with Barnaby, showcasing their combined strength once more.
- 12
Andrew's Reveal
The battle intensifies when it’s revealed that the robot was piloted by Schneider's secretary, Andrew Scott, seeking revenge for past grievances. Andrew’s motivations align with the other NEXTs, each bearing a grudge against Schneider.
- 13
The Final Showdown
In a dramatic climax, Tiger and Bunny reveal their true potential, combining forces to defeat Andrew in spectacular fashion. Their united front proves decisive until the time limit of Tiger’s powers begins to close in on them.
Where:City Skyline
- 14
Victory & Rehabilitation
Following their victory, the heroes focus on post-battle cleanup while Andrew and his cohorts begin their rehabilitation in prison. The Second League is reinstated, signaling a brighter future for the hero division.
Where:Stern Bild
- 15
Tiger's Future
In the aftermath, Tiger’s status as a hero is reestablished by Agnes, as citizens rally behind him, chanting his name. This lifts his spirits, indicating he is finally ready to embrace his role once again.
Who Are the Main Characters in Tiger & Bunny: The Rising?
3 characters, among them Kotetsu T. Kaburagi (Wild Tiger), Barnaby Brooks Jr. and Mark Schneider: who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- KT
Kotetsu T. Kaburagi (Wild Tiger)
Kotetsu, known as Wild Tiger, is a seasoned hero who struggles with feelings of inadequacy and obsolescence as he faces new challenges. His dedication to protecting others is evident, yet his self-doubts prevent him from fully embracing his potential. Throughout the film, he learns the importance of remaining true to oneself and finds renewed purpose with the support of his allies.
- 🦸 Hero
- 💼 Professional
- BB
Barnaby Brooks Jr.
Barnaby is a skilled and ambitious hero striving to reclaim his rightful place in the hero rankings. Initially driven by his desire for revenge, he evolves into a figure who champions justice and empathy. His partnership with Kotetsu is central to the narrative, showcasing his resilience, adaptability, and commitment to heroic ideals.
- 🦸 Hero
- 🎯 Determined
- MS
Mark Schneider
Mark Schneider is the new owner of Apollon Media, representing corporate interests in the hero community. His initial decisions appear driven by profit, neglecting the emotional and historical significance of the hero roles. As the plot unfolds, his choices lead to pivotal conflicts that challenge the city's heroes and reveal the complexities of business and heroism.
- 💼 Businessman
- ⚖️ Antagonist
Where and When Is Tiger & Bunny: The Rising Set?
Tiger & Bunny: The Rising is set in Stern Bild. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The events of the movie unfold in a contemporary setting, immediately following a crucial epilogue that addresses the city's heroes' struggles and triumphs. The narrative highlights themes of teamwork and personal growth against the backdrop of modern-day challenges faced by the hero community.
Where
Stern Bild
Stern Bild is a vibrant city known for its celebration of justice, particularly during events like Justice Day. It serves as the backdrop for many heroic exploits, where heroes act to protect its citizens from threats and crime. The city holds a rich history tied to the legend of the Goddess, who brought about justice centuries ago.
- 🏙️ City
- 🎉 Celebration
What Are the Themes of Tiger & Bunny: The Rising?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Justice, Teamwork and Redemption.
-
01
Justice
The theme of justice is central to the story, reflecting the legacy of the Goddess who once saved the city. The heroes' efforts to combat crime and corruption in Stern Bild illustrate their dedication to upholding justice. As they face personal and professional challenges, the notion of true heroism is continuously explored.
-
02
Teamwork
Teamwork plays a crucial role as the characters navigate their relationships and work together to confront formidable foes. The film showcases how collaboration among the heroes leads to success, while individual progress is also emphasized through their personal journeys. The bond between Tiger and Bunny exemplifies this theme, illustrating the power of unity.
-
03
Redemption
Redemption is a significant theme, as many characters seek to rectify their past mistakes and find new purpose. Barnaby’s shift from revenge to heroism and Andrew’s journey from villainy to vulnerability highlight the complex pathways of personal growth and forgiveness. The film suggests that even those who have strayed can find their way back to the right side.
What Kind of Film Is Tiger & Bunny: The Rising?
Hopeful in tone, with variable pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Variable
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
An energetic superhero adventure that balances flashy hero action with heartfelt character moments, following two mismatched partners as they reunite against a vengeful villain in a hopeful triumph.
- uplifting
- action packed
- heroic
- energetic
- triumphant
- witty
- superheroes
- teamwork
- revenge
- corporate corruption
Content notes: violence, suicide (referenced), corporate murder.
Quiz
How well do you remember Tiger & Bunny: The Rising? Test yourself on the story.
