A brief video is up on jebushchrist's flickr account that shows off what is reported to be a stunt for Transformers 3. Based on the description (below), it seems the stunt is shot in the same area were the truck stunt was performed a few weeks ago. Click here to view as not embeddable. (via AllSpark)
Full scale model of an office building, flanked by two huge hydraulic jacks that lift one end 30 to 40 feet in the air. I guess they are going to have a scene with soldiers in there while it is destroyed and collapses. A moment after this shot, two stuntmen slid down the length of the office floor. Looked like they were wearing uniforms and had weapons.
I'm pretty sure the exterior facade is an exact match of the nearby Horizons office complex (brand new but still vacant), where they will be filming some additional scenes. So I guess they will show that building collapsing. Better than having MySpace move in...
Shot at the former Hughes Aircraft factory lot in "Playa Vista". That huge building at far left is the hangar where the Spruce Goose was built or assembled.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Ironhide #2 Preview

Transformers: Ironhide #2
Mike Costa (w) • Casey Coller (a) • Marcelo Matere, Coller (c)Stranded on modern-day Cybertron, Ironhide discovers he's the only functioning life-form on the planet. Oh, except for the Swarm. Writer Mike Costa continues to put the fallen (now resurrected?!) Autobot through some strange paces, with stunning art by Casey Coller.FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Transformers Linkfest
Click the link for three images that show off an artist concept of Autobot City that seems to be the basis of the design used in animated Transformers: The Movie. The artwork was created by Floro Dery who was the visual creator for The Transformers cartoon and the movie back in the 80s. As the art shows, the transformation of the city into battle mode played a part into the design.
Sears, KMart W4C Comic as Pre-Order Bonus
Sears and KMart are offering a Transformers: War for Cybertron comic as a pre-order bonus for the game. It is assumed it is the same comic as being offered by Austrilian retailer JB Hi-Fi which is written by Alex Irvine and art by Don Figureroa.

Click to view a bunch of pictures that show off the Japan exclusive toy that was released recently. While it is weird to see Starscream as a car rather than a jet, it doesn't change the fact that is one sweet figure. The gallery Skywarp, the purple and black repaint of the same figure, can be found here.
Unofficial Guide to Botcon
I have never been to Botcon but the folks at Seibertron.com have and to help the experience go well they put together a guide that covers the basics of attending Botcon. The Hasbro sanctioned Transformers convention will be held at Walt Disney World, Florida from June 24th to 27th. The guide includes info on hotels, registration, exclusive figures, panels and more. If you’re thinking of going or plan on going, probably worth reading.

MP Prime is getting yet another re-release from Takara, this time limited to 2010 pieces and called MP-4S Sleep Convoy. It’s the same version of Masterpiece Prime over the years but this time painted in the "death" colors from Transformers: The Movie. Not sure why the trailer is clear but the result is pretty cool looking. Click the link above to view the full gallery.
Leader Starscream Release Date: 8/9/10
The Hasbro toy store is accepting pre-orders for Leader class Starscream and listing the release date as August 9th. This is subject to change and Hasbro has a tendency to release items before the estimated date and it doesn't account for time it may take for stores to stock it to their shelves. Consider it more of a ballpark for when to start looking for the toy.

The Transformers watch return thanks to Japan watchmaker Seahope. Currently a Japan exclusive, the toy is expected to come out sometime last 2010. No clue on price but assuming not going to come cheap.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Heidi Montag Auditions For Transformers 3
For your entertainment, Heidi Montag's Audition Tape for Transformers 3 that has her saying “This is for you, Michael Bay!” before shooting at various still targets. I admire the attempt, can't hurt to try but this is her audition? Considering the names that were floated around for weeks, I don't think Michael Bay's concern was ability to fire a gun. Apparently she tweeted the tape, not knowing that Michael Bay once said, "I will never have a twitter account." The effort is likely wasted as Bay seems to have cast model Rosie Huntington-Whitely. Already the audition has a parody (which ironically is a better audition).
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Rosie Huntington - Whitely Joins Transformers 3

It remains unknown exactly how much screen time she will have since the script is being adjusted to account for the change in circumstances and character. Training does indicate she will be involved in stunt work which indicates at least a supporting role much like Sam's parents but potentially larger. It also explains why she was added to the movies' insurance policy.
Tyrese On Transformers 3 Set
Tyrese Gibson has tweeted that today he started work on the Transformers 3 set, reprising his role of Master Sergeant Robert Epps.
Tweet One: "First day of filming T3 in the am!. Im so damn pumped I can't even sleep!!!..."
Tweet Two: "Just got to set first day of filming Transformers 3! Wow!!"
It does seem most of the band is (mostly) back together and now with a supermodel joining their ranks. (via AllSpark)
Tweet One: "First day of filming T3 in the am!. Im so damn pumped I can't even sleep!!!..."
Tweet Two: "Just got to set first day of filming Transformers 3! Wow!!"
It does seem most of the band is (mostly) back together and now with a supermodel joining their ranks. (via AllSpark)
Drift Video Review
The next wave of Transformers toys seems to have started hitting some locations including the Hasbro online toy store. With it is one of the first video review of the new wave of toys with Transformers: Generations Drift. Drift is an ex Decepticon, samurai sword swinging character created by IDW for their comic TF universe. I am surprised Hasbro made a toy for the character considering he has made only two or so appearances in the comic books. Over all it looks like a solid addition to the other Classic line of figures from the past few years. Below is the video review, if you are interested in just the transformation click here. (via Seibertron)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Whitely New Frontrunner For Fox's Replacement
The Sun reports, "The British Victoria's Secret model, 23, has been offered the role in the sequel - after Megan sensationally quit the franchise last week." Meanwhile, Deadline is reporting she is the top name of a short list of three names that includes Sarah Wright and model Brooklyn Decker. Apparently Michael Bay's goal is "to launch a fresh face". He has another week to make a final decision as the chosen actress is not scheduled to shoot scenes with Shia LaBeouf for another two weeks.
If four different sites indicating Rosie’s casting isn’t enough, here is my tidbit to add fuel to the fire. A source informed me yesterday that she has already been added to the cast insurance program which is usually reserved for lead roles and supporting characters whose roles are key enough to production that their loss (say death) could cause a significant expense for the film.
Of the three choices, my preference would be Sarah Wright. Partly because she is hot, partly because she has acting experience and partly because I just "buy" her more as a potential girlfriend for Sam then a supermodel. As the casting of Fox had proven, Sam's life is a large part of geek fantasy fulfillment (gets the car, the girl, saves the world, etc) and I guess the casting of a model does continue the trend. Too bad, Bay could have cast Chuck's Yvonne Strahovski and made it 3 for 3 in casting hot blonde Australian women for roles in his films.
The news does seem to negate the news that Fox quit (or fired) over weight issues since the short list, at least going by a quick Google image search, do not exactly strike me as doing a credible job of avoiding the too thin look that Fox was accused of having.
Tyrese "Sad" Over Fox Leaving Transformers
Tyrese Gibson spoke with MTV about the news that Megan Fox would not be returning to reprise her role for Transformers 3. Basically he doesn't know what happened but doesn't like that "the band" was broken up. (via AllSpark)
"I was sad about it, man. Genuinely," he told MTV News on the red carpet for the E! 20th anniversary celebration Monday night. "We built something here. We all did. We all put our own sauce and stamp and energy on this franchise."
As much as he was bummed to hear the news, Gibson isn't prying into the backstory before he heads to the "Transformers 3" set this Thursday. "I don't know exactly what went down," he said. "But it's crazy to see the band get broken up, you know what I mean?"
"I was sad about it, man. Genuinely," he told MTV News on the red carpet for the E! 20th anniversary celebration Monday night. "We built something here. We all did. We all put our own sauce and stamp and energy on this franchise."
As much as he was bummed to hear the news, Gibson isn't prying into the backstory before he heads to the "Transformers 3" set this Thursday. "I don't know exactly what went down," he said. "But it's crazy to see the band get broken up, you know what I mean?"
Transformers Linkfest

Click the link to view 12 pictures of six kanji characters that transformer into various animals based on what it represents. For example the kanji for dragon turns into a dragon. The toys are from Bandai and the link is called Mojibakeru (moji means "character", bakeru means "to change"). The six animals are dog, tiger, fish, horse, bird and dragon that come in black, white, yellow and blue colors. The cost is 100 yen ($1 USD), no idea if will be something an online importer will sell elsewhere. (via io9)

Click the links above to view the next wave of Transformers in and out of packaging that should be hitting stores shelves very soon. Part 1 focuses on the main Transformers line derived from the movies that includes Deluxe Ironhide, Leader Starscream, Sea Spray and others. Part 2 is about the Transformers: Generations and Power Core combiners including W4C Bumblebee, W4C Optimus Prime, Drift, Thrust and more. Part 3 the low budget, toddler set of toys such as Power Bots, Activators, and so forth. Speaking of Drift, if interested in how he stores the sword, click here.
Hasbro Masterpiece Grimlock Gallery
Click to view pictures of Masterpiece Grimlock which is a Toys R Us exclusive for $59.99USD (I think). I have read that it is available in stores now. This toy is identical to the Takara version that was released a year or so ago but this one comes with different accessories, the main one being his crown.

Unicron returns, at least in Japan. The planet sized Transformer from Transformers: The Movie has been released several times in the states (most recent was a year or so ago I think) and now he is getting a more movie accurate release thanks to Takara. The figure has a new paint job that is a darker orange and grey, a new head mold and other tweaks that improves the overall look of the figure. He is expected to be released in September for around 10,500 Yen ($100 USD).
Impossible Toys TRNS-01 Valkyrie (aka Arcee) Video
Sweet video of Arcee that looks nearly identical to her Generation One cartoon design. For whatever reason, she was never really created as toy by Hasbro despite being in the animated Transformers: The Movie. Two videos below, the first shows off the packaging and transformation of the Deluxe sized figure. The second video is a sizable gallery that shows it off in comparison to her other Generation One toys. The green figure is a repaint that will be called Nightbird (aka Paradron Medic). I don't know when the figures will be released or how much it will cost. The reason for the rename is the toys are not produced or sanctioned by Hasbro so unable to use their copyrighted names.
TF3 Extras Casting Call In Chicago?
A new ad has popped up on Chicago Craigslist that is advertising an extras casting call for Transformers 3 for June 4th and 5th. The Chicago Tribune also has a post of the same information but that doesn't mean it was vetted by the paper. Usual buyer beware caveats apply.
TRANSFORMERS 3 EXTRAS CASTING CALL
PAID EXTRAS NEEDED FOR FILMING IN CHICAGO AREA
WHEN: Friday June 4TH, 2010: 9:30AM-4:30PM
Saturday June 5th, 2010: 9:30AM-4:30PM
WHERE: The Chicago Academy for the Arts
1010 West Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60642-5414
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Photos will be taken at no charge
- Please bring a pen
**NOTE: This is the official (FREE OF CHARGE) casting call and the only legitimate way to be an extra in the TRANSFORMERS 3 movie**
Beware of scams: No major motion picture will ever charge a fee for a casting session
TRANSFORMERS 3 EXTRAS CASTING CALL
PAID EXTRAS NEEDED FOR FILMING IN CHICAGO AREA
WHEN: Friday June 4TH, 2010: 9:30AM-4:30PM
Saturday June 5th, 2010: 9:30AM-4:30PM
WHERE: The Chicago Academy for the Arts
1010 West Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60642-5414
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Photos will be taken at no charge
- Please bring a pen
**NOTE: This is the official (FREE OF CHARGE) casting call and the only legitimate way to be an extra in the TRANSFORMERS 3 movie**
Beware of scams: No major motion picture will ever charge a fee for a casting session
W4C: Multiplayer Experience Video
A new video is out for Transformers: War for Cybertron. This time the video focuses on the multiplayer experience as Game Director Matt Tieger and Lead Programmer Andrew Zaferakis stalk about the modes and goals for multiplayer. (via Seibertron)
Mike Costa Interview, Transformers #7 Preview

"Starscream is not doing great, and definitely does not have Megatron's interests at heart. Starscream is really only focused on his own interests, which is staying in power. As for Megatron...he's not doing good. In fact, the Decepticons are still behaving as if he's dead, and he basically is. Dude took a head-shot from a laser-cannon. That requires a lot of bed-rest, even if you're Megatron."
"The Decepticons are having an even bigger problem with change than the Autobots have," the writer continued, adding that Starscream's ineffectual and self-aggrandizing has "created a power-vacuum where order has almost totally broken down. They are stranded in a temporary base not so much because they can't leave, but because they have no direction."
He also talked about the Ironhide mini-series.
...the series will explore Ironhide's complex friendship with his commander Optimus Prime. "That itself sets up some big stuff for later, but I can't really get into that without blowing the central mystery set-up at the end of the first issue: Why is Ironhide on Cybertron all alone, and what's going on?"
"His death turns out to be a crucial moment in the history of the planet Cybertron," the writer told CBR. "I know that sounds a little silly, but when you read the series you'll see what I mean. It has huge ramifications for the future of the Transformers universe." (I think this is referring it being the catalyst to cause Prime to resign as leader in TF #1 and how things played out from there but could be wrong.)
Transformers #7
Mike Costa (w) • Don Figueroa (a) • Figueroa, Andrew Wildman (c)
As the dust settles down on Earth, we look to the Heavens to ask a burning question: Where have MEGATRON and the retreating DECEPTICONS been all this time? What have they been up to? The answer, of course, is: nothing good. Take a conspicuously infernal single-issue look into the heart of darkness with Costa and Figueroa.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD
Fox Quit Over Weight?
“Megan stormed out after a huge row with Michael Bay,” a source told British newspaper The Sun.“He thinks she has lost too much weight and looks too frail. He wanted her to put on some weight and it all kicked off. The crew don’t think she looks well, let alone the wholesome, curvy star they cast in the first film. She’s going for this gaunt, pale image and it just looks unhealthy."
If this story sounds familiar, Megan Fox admitted that she was required by Michael Bay to gain weight for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen saying at the time, “I should have toned up for 'Transformers' but I’m really lazy. I had to put on weight. I’d lost a lot of weight and got really scrawny, but I was told I had to put on size for 'Transformers' because Michael [Bay, the director] doesn’t like skinny girls."
No telling if this is true or false. I am leaning to false as just doesn't seem big enough reason. However, we do know she was on set (example image above) at least for a day or two and suddenly she was off the film so despite speculation the cause was not comments from last year (which probably didn't help) but something that occurred in just the last week.
Decker, Cassidy Join Casting Rumor Mill

MoviesOnline.com is reporting their own "inside track" names Sports Illustrated's Brooklyn Decker as the replacement. Her acting career includes guest roles on Royal Pains, Ugly Betty and Adam Sandler's next movie Just Go With It.

I wonder what new names will join the rumor list.
Whitely To Replace Fox On Transformers 3?

Specifics on the character are unknown but safe to assume it’s a new one, not the Mikaela character. Fans seem to be hoping for Carly, his girlfriend, then wife throughout the G1 cartoon series. Between the names that have popped up as replacements and this rumor, I am starting to think that the love interest role will not be a major character. It is starting to look like that the role might be similar to Rachael Taylor or Isabel Lucas roles in the sense their characters mostly existed as eye candy to move the plot along. Could this mean that Frances McDormand is really the lead female role in the film?
If the "Sam's love interest" role is demoted to supporting character that would not only explain why Megan was willing to leave the movie but why it could can happen past the beginning of principle photography. Supporting characters tend not to be involved with every day of a sheet but might be on set for only a couple of weeks. This would allow plenty of time to tweak the role and the schedule to accommodate any changes needed by a new casting choice and the script changes.
Time will tell of course. I am not gung ho on a model landing a huge role in the film but a minor one is no biggie. I still support the idea of Sam Whitwicky hooking up with a realistic and strong female character, not yet another fashion magazine fantasy.
Matt Tieger Talks War For Cybertron
Transformers: War for Cybertron is just a touch over a month away from release and the spokesperson for the game, Game Director Matt Tieger, continues to make the rounds to talk about it. UGDB.com interview with Tieger focuses influence of the Generation One cartoons and characters (few highlights below) and said that all the voices other then Optimus (Peter Cullen) are new voices to the franchise. In addition, GameSpot has posted a video interview (below) that shows off new gameplay footage as Tieger essentially describes the basics of the game. The game is coming out on June 22nd.
...was there any involvement from the original show writers like George Arthur Bloom, Dick Robbins, Bryce Malek, Donald F. Glut, or maybe some others who have worked in the franchise in the past?
Matt Tieger: We did not work with the original story creators. I and many of us here at HMS are big Transformers fans so we felt confident that we could work with Hasbro and deliver a great story.
UGDB: Without giving away too much of the story can you say whether we will see the game cross over into the early season one episodes? Will we ever see Earth or is that better left for a sequel?
Matt Tieger: I’d like to keep the story under wraps. Sorry but you will have to wait!
UGDB: Will we hear any recognizable music from the franchise? Lion? Stan Bush?
Matt Tieger: I am excited to say that our music was composed by Tyler Bates from the Watchmen and the 300. He was awesome to work with and brought a lot of enthusiasm to the project. There will also be some other nice little surprises for Transformers fans…
UGDB: How about voice actors? We know that Peter Cullen is returning as Optimus Prime, are any other original voice actors making a reprise for Transformers: War for Cybertron? Have the new voice actors lived up to the legacy of their predecessors?
Matt Tieger: We worked with Hasbro and selected a compliment of great voice actors. Sound is a key component to a Transformers game, so this was something we spend a lot of time on. We had to get it right. All the voices, other than Peter, are new to Transformers and they nailed it.
...was there any involvement from the original show writers like George Arthur Bloom, Dick Robbins, Bryce Malek, Donald F. Glut, or maybe some others who have worked in the franchise in the past?
Matt Tieger: We did not work with the original story creators. I and many of us here at HMS are big Transformers fans so we felt confident that we could work with Hasbro and deliver a great story.
UGDB: Without giving away too much of the story can you say whether we will see the game cross over into the early season one episodes? Will we ever see Earth or is that better left for a sequel?
Matt Tieger: I’d like to keep the story under wraps. Sorry but you will have to wait!
UGDB: Will we hear any recognizable music from the franchise? Lion? Stan Bush?
Matt Tieger: I am excited to say that our music was composed by Tyler Bates from the Watchmen and the 300. He was awesome to work with and brought a lot of enthusiasm to the project. There will also be some other nice little surprises for Transformers fans…
UGDB: How about voice actors? We know that Peter Cullen is returning as Optimus Prime, are any other original voice actors making a reprise for Transformers: War for Cybertron? Have the new voice actors lived up to the legacy of their predecessors?
Matt Tieger: We worked with Hasbro and selected a compliment of great voice actors. Sound is a key component to a Transformers game, so this was something we spend a lot of time on. We had to get it right. All the voices, other than Peter, are new to Transformers and they nailed it.
Motor City Bumblebee "Interview"
StylinOnline.com has posted an "interview" (via TFW2005) with the Bumblebee Camaro while at the Motor City Comicon. The voice is provided by Mark Ryan who voices the character for the movies and related video games. It’s an amusing tongue in cheek interview with a Transformer but sadly no info about Transformers 3.
IDW August Transformers Comics
IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for July. The month will bring three Transformers comic books and three trades. If you are interested in the books, just let your local comic book store know. For the full details of IDW's TF and other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, Angel and more click here. (via Seibertron)
Transformers #10
Mike Costa (w) • Guido Guidi (a & c)
“International Incident,” Part 2: Spike and Optimus lead a covert team onto South Korean soil, but do they have a chance against a fully-armed platoon of Combaticons? Somebody's about to get their tail-pipe kicked in a big way. Costa and Guidi bring the pain with the biggest brawl yet in the Transformers ongoing title.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD
Transformers: Ironhide #4
Mike Costa (w) • Casey Coller (a) • Marcelo Matere, Coller (c)
Filled with destiny, purpose, and seven million years of Decepticon-whuppin’ to catch up on, Ironhide goes out to meet the Swarm in an epic final confrontation. Casey Coller and Mike Costa deliver what is far and away the most action-packed issue of their careers, and the fate of Cybertron is changed forever.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD • 2 covers will be shipped in 1-to-1 ratio.
Transformers: Nefarious #6
Simon Furman (w) • Carlos Magno (a) • Brian Rood, Magno (c)
The fate of the entire planet teeters in the balance as OPTIMUS PRIME makes a fateful decision; a no-win scenario he never thought he’d have to face… again. Cover-to-cover searing battle action and truly epic stakes, the sequel to Revenge of the Fallen concludes—and how!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD • 2 covers will be shipped in 1-to-1 ratio.
Transformers: Armada Omnibus
Chris Sarracini, Simon Furman (w) • James Raiz, Guido Guidi, Don Figueroa (a) • Figueroa (c)
The DECEPTICONS, feeding off the energy of captured MINI-CONS, are about to begin a hostile takeover of the TRANSFORMERS’ home planet, CYBERTRON. Do OPTIMUS PRIME and the heroic AUTOBOTS stand a chance of defending the planet against these super-powered villains? And will the MINI-CONS ever get their freedom back? The action is so explosive that the shock waves will shake not only CYBERTRON but even planet Earth right down to the core!
TPB • FC • $24.99USD • 424 Pages • 6” x 9”
Transformers: Best of Megatron
Bob Budiansky, Simon Furman (w) • Various Artists (a) • Livio Ramondelli (c)
MEGATRON is the brutal and cunning leader of the DECEPTICONS. Locked in constant battle with the AUTOBOTS, MEGATRON seeks to win the war and claim CYBERTRON for himself. These tales, culled from his datatracks, contain his most ruthless and defining moments.
TPB • FC • $19.99USD • 144 Pages
Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers TPB
Nick Roche, James Roberts (w) • Nick Roche (a & c)
The AUTOBOT special ops crew, THE WRECKERS, are sent to investigate Garrus-9, a prison that fell to the DECEPTICONS three years ago with no communication in or out since. Who’s really behind the prison siege, and what dark secret awaits SPRINGER there? The answers to those questions will send this mission to the razors edge!
TPB • FC • $19.99USD • 132 Pages

Mike Costa (w) • Guido Guidi (a & c)
“International Incident,” Part 2: Spike and Optimus lead a covert team onto South Korean soil, but do they have a chance against a fully-armed platoon of Combaticons? Somebody's about to get their tail-pipe kicked in a big way. Costa and Guidi bring the pain with the biggest brawl yet in the Transformers ongoing title.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD

Mike Costa (w) • Casey Coller (a) • Marcelo Matere, Coller (c)
Filled with destiny, purpose, and seven million years of Decepticon-whuppin’ to catch up on, Ironhide goes out to meet the Swarm in an epic final confrontation. Casey Coller and Mike Costa deliver what is far and away the most action-packed issue of their careers, and the fate of Cybertron is changed forever.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD • 2 covers will be shipped in 1-to-1 ratio.

Simon Furman (w) • Carlos Magno (a) • Brian Rood, Magno (c)
The fate of the entire planet teeters in the balance as OPTIMUS PRIME makes a fateful decision; a no-win scenario he never thought he’d have to face… again. Cover-to-cover searing battle action and truly epic stakes, the sequel to Revenge of the Fallen concludes—and how!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99USD • 2 covers will be shipped in 1-to-1 ratio.

Chris Sarracini, Simon Furman (w) • James Raiz, Guido Guidi, Don Figueroa (a) • Figueroa (c)
The DECEPTICONS, feeding off the energy of captured MINI-CONS, are about to begin a hostile takeover of the TRANSFORMERS’ home planet, CYBERTRON. Do OPTIMUS PRIME and the heroic AUTOBOTS stand a chance of defending the planet against these super-powered villains? And will the MINI-CONS ever get their freedom back? The action is so explosive that the shock waves will shake not only CYBERTRON but even planet Earth right down to the core!
TPB • FC • $24.99USD • 424 Pages • 6” x 9”

Bob Budiansky, Simon Furman (w) • Various Artists (a) • Livio Ramondelli (c)
MEGATRON is the brutal and cunning leader of the DECEPTICONS. Locked in constant battle with the AUTOBOTS, MEGATRON seeks to win the war and claim CYBERTRON for himself. These tales, culled from his datatracks, contain his most ruthless and defining moments.
TPB • FC • $19.99USD • 144 Pages
Transformers: Last Stand of the Wreckers TPB
Nick Roche, James Roberts (w) • Nick Roche (a & c)
The AUTOBOT special ops crew, THE WRECKERS, are sent to investigate Garrus-9, a prison that fell to the DECEPTICONS three years ago with no communication in or out since. Who’s really behind the prison siege, and what dark secret awaits SPRINGER there? The answers to those questions will send this mission to the razors edge!
TPB • FC • $19.99USD • 132 Pages
Frank Welker Joins Transformers: Prime

Probably most important to fans, he confirmed that the legendary Frank Welker has joined Peter Cullen as a cast member on the show, "Seeing Cullen and Welker together in the recording studio was mind blowing." He did not elaborate on what voices Welker will be performing but I would not be surprised if it turns out to be Megatron and Soundwave.
For Starscream fans, Orci also verified that he "will be his former back stabbing treacherous sarcastic egocentrical whiny glorius never learning foolish good looking self" (good description) with a simply "Yup." (via Seibertron)
Monday, May 24, 2010
Gemma Arterton To Replace Fox?

Fox Comfirms Leaving Transformers 3
Megan Fox confirms leaving Transformers to People. It was leaked that Paramount, based on a decision from Michael Bay, decided not to exercise it's option to reprise her role of Mikaela Banes for TF3. Fox provides a slightly different perspective saying through her reps that "It was her decision not to return. She wishes the franchise the best.”
Megan Fox Fired From Transformers 3 (Updated)

I've just learned that Paramount won't be picking up Megan Fox's option on Transformers 3 -- and that it was "ultimately" director Michael Bay's decision. (So he gets his revenge for her remark comparing him to "Hitler".) Right now Bay and writer Ehren Kruger et al are finishing up the script for the threequel and "giving Shia a new love interest makes more sense for the story," an insider tells me. Bay will start casting immediately for the new female co-star.
There has been a bit of history between Megan Fox and Michael Bay. You have her not polite comments on the films, her like Hitler comment, a letter written by crewmembers asking to remove her, Bay's response & Megan's response to the letter and sure more we are not aware of. However, all of this happened months ago and would not explain a sudden move to replace her after principle photography started.
There are multiple caveats on why this is likely false. One, Deadline probably has around a .500 batting average on its rumors in general and has shown tendency to edit their posts to make it seem more accurate then really is. Two, Megan Fox has already been on a Transformers 3 set with the Bumblebee Camaro and makeup for Transformers 3. Three, expensive movies like Transformers 3 tend to avoid replacing their leads after principle photography has started. Sure the Hitler comment could be a cause but if Bay was going to replace her, that decision and casting would have occurred months ago, not now. Finally, Bay already said back in November that he wasn't killing Fox's character and welcomed her return (of course he tends to lie...).
It should be noted that the article claims the script is currently being finished and didn't mention that principle photography has already begun indicating the site is a bit behind the news regarding the movie. While not unprecedented for leads to be replaced after filming has started, it is rare and only occurs under extraordinary circumstances. I don't recall it ever happening for a sequel. Big news like this is going to have to be sourced from other known sources before I recommend anyone take it seriously.
Update: Hey what do you know, more sources already. From Variety, "A studio spokeswoman disclosed Wednesday that Par[amount]'s decided against picking up Fox's option to star as Mikaela Banes in the third installment but declined to elaborate."
CNN is also reporting, "A rep for Paramount confirmed to CNN that Megan Fox won't be back to reprise her "Transformers" role Mikaela Banes for the third time."
I have to wonder what happened for this decision to come down now rather than months ago. It has to be something recent (maybe from that set visit) that became the proverbial straw. Fox will have to start promoting Jonah Hex soon so might get more information then.
Transformers 3 Truck Stunt Video
Transformers 3 principle photography has started as of last week in Los Angeles with Shia LaBeouf reporting to the set today. However there was some second unit work being performed in April that included a visit to Gary, Indiana and now it seems also at Howard Hughes Airfield which is north of LA. The video recorded on April 29th via a Flip camera shows off a truck stunt that involves a car going off a ramp, hitting the ground and exploding in a fireball. People on site said the stunt was for Transformers 3. There is no visible signage nor familiar Transformers related vehicles so this cannot be proven conclusively.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Last Stand Of The Wreckers #5 Preview

Written by Nick Roche and Jame Roberts, interior art by Nick Roche
The endgame begins. Their teammates are dead, their mission is in tatters, and all hope is lost. Time has run out for the last of the Wreckers, who confront the maniac responsible for the atrocities of the last 48 hours. Deaths, betrayals and long-promised revelations -- truly, this one has it all!32pages * $3.99
W4C: Mission Design Trailer
A new trailer from Gametrailers.com for Transformers: War for Cybertron video game that is coming out on June 22, 2010. Game Director Matt Tieger and Lead Game Designer Matt Krytstek talk about the Autobot and Decepticon campaigns and the boss fights. Also every level of the game is co-opt with two other players.
Peter Cullen Voices Optimus In TF Prime
A new article from Advertising Age about Hasbro's new The Hub network that is launching on October 10th is news on the voice of Optimus Prime for the cartoon, return of a beloved cartoon series and an interesting ad limitation the new network will have to deal with. The article also gets into details about other plans the network has such as GI Joe: Renegades, My Little Pony and more. Below are quotes directly related to Transformers. (via TFW2005)
..."Transformers Prime" will feature the voice of Peter Cullen, the original voice of Optimus Prime from the animated series as well as the Michael Bay-directed feature films. Additionally, "Transformers" feature screenwriters Alex Kurtzman and Robert Orci will act as showrunners.
The Hub will exclusively re-air old episodes of the Jim Henson Company's "Fraggle Rock," and is also planning a late-night block of old "G.I. Joe" and "Transformers" episodes to attract parents and young adult males nostalgic for the '80s-era cartoons.
Ads for Transformers toys, for example, can't air within or adjacent to the "Transformers" show due to government restrictions. The same goes for other Hasbro-branded programs that also have products to advertise at retail.
..."Transformers Prime" will feature the voice of Peter Cullen, the original voice of Optimus Prime from the animated series as well as the Michael Bay-directed feature films. Additionally, "Transformers" feature screenwriters Alex Kurtzman and Robert Orci will act as showrunners.
The Hub will exclusively re-air old episodes of the Jim Henson Company's "Fraggle Rock," and is also planning a late-night block of old "G.I. Joe" and "Transformers" episodes to attract parents and young adult males nostalgic for the '80s-era cartoons.
Ads for Transformers toys, for example, can't air within or adjacent to the "Transformers" show due to government restrictions. The same goes for other Hasbro-branded programs that also have products to advertise at retail.
Shia Starts Transformers 3 On Tuesday
Megan Fox has already reported to Transformers 3 and in a new interview from Access Hollywood Shia LaBeouf will join her on Tuesday. The interview was part of Shia's promotion of Wall Street 2 at the Cannes Film Festival. He reiterates the goal in making Transformers 3 as "The biggest movie we ever tried to make. We want to make the best action movie ever made." His hand has also recovered from the injury that occurred in a car accident working on Transformers 2 (not caused on set). (via Seibertron)
TF3 DMCA Takedown Notice Getting Attention

From Tech Dirt:
Now, not only is it ridiculous to claim that these videos are covered under Paramount's copyright, it's hard to fathom why Paramount would want to bother quashing these videos at all. After Brown and Krimmel posted their videos, entertainment blogs picked the story up and started to build buzz about the movie. Isn't that a good thing? Personally, I really disliked the last Transformers movie, and this latest round of DMCA shenanigans isn't doing a very good job of convincing me to give the next installment another look.

On Friday, April 14, Google sent me a response that explains that they've forwarded my counter notice to Paramount, and that my video will be restored only after 10-14 days have passed... Unless, of course, Paramount retracts their invalid DMCA complaint against me.
I have no idea what will happen at this point but a two week turnaround for a counter-claim strikes me as egregious considering Paramount's false claim was handled within a day. Its actions like this that lead to the lack of respect people have when the studios cry foul over copyright.
Shia: "Targeting Humans" In TF3
Shia LaBeouf continues his promotion of Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps at the Cannes Film Festival. While there, NME.com asked him about Transformers 3.
“When I saw the second movie, I wasn't impressed with what we did," he said. "There were some really wild stunts in it, but the heart was gone... we got lost. We tried to get bigger. Mike [director Michael Bay] went so big that it became too big, and I think you lost the anchor of the movie."
He added: “You lost a bit of the relationships. Unless you have those relationships, then the movie doesn't matter. Then it’s just a bunch of robots fighting each other.”
Of Transformers 3, he added: “There's going to be a lot of death, human death” as “this time they're targeting humans”.
It almost sounds like the Transformers war may add a new front to the battle. (via TFormers)
“When I saw the second movie, I wasn't impressed with what we did," he said. "There were some really wild stunts in it, but the heart was gone... we got lost. We tried to get bigger. Mike [director Michael Bay] went so big that it became too big, and I think you lost the anchor of the movie."
He added: “You lost a bit of the relationships. Unless you have those relationships, then the movie doesn't matter. Then it’s just a bunch of robots fighting each other.”
Of Transformers 3, he added: “There's going to be a lot of death, human death” as “this time they're targeting humans”.
It almost sounds like the Transformers war may add a new front to the battle. (via TFormers)
War For Cybertron Story Trailer
Gametrailers.com has posted the story trailer for Transformers: War for Cybertron that provides an overview of the story of the game. Hasbro Senior Design Director Aaron Archer and Game Director Matt Tieger also reveal a few spoilers behind the origin of the Great War that is considered canon by Hasbro and will likely influence future projects in some form or fashion. (via The AllSpark)
Firefly's Alan Tudky Cast In Transformers 3

More Details On TF3 In Florida
The local Fox Orlando TV station recently ran a report (video below) on the news that Transformers 3 would be filming in the Florida Space Coast area in early September.
Space Coast Film commissioner Bonnie King revealed that other then filming at the Kennedy Space Center, locations scouts also looked at "swamps, woods, maybe an air boat place, we took them all over that type of thing." King also learned that one of the main characters is "retired and they call him back to do something. But he is retired in Florida doing something else." That something else might be a surf instructor, fishing guide, air boat operator or maybe another job. I get the feeling this character is John Turturro's Agent Simmons. There might be a local extras casting call but details have yet to be determined. (via IO9)
Space Coast Film commissioner Bonnie King revealed that other then filming at the Kennedy Space Center, locations scouts also looked at "swamps, woods, maybe an air boat place, we took them all over that type of thing." King also learned that one of the main characters is "retired and they call him back to do something. But he is retired in Florida doing something else." That something else might be a surf instructor, fishing guide, air boat operator or maybe another job. I get the feeling this character is John Turturro's Agent Simmons. There might be a local extras casting call but details have yet to be determined. (via IO9)
Shia: Transformers 3 Best Yet
Shia LaBeouf, currently at the Cannes Film Festival in France, spoke to the AP about Transformers 3, saying it will the best entry yet for the franchise.
LaBeouf, who starts work on the next "Transformers" sequel Tuesday, said the third installment will be the best one yet.
The new script restores a human element that got lost in the second movie, LaBeouf said."When I saw the second movie, I wasn't impressed with what we did," LaBeouf said in an interview Thursday at the Cannes Film Festival, where his finance drama "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" is premiering. "There were some really wild stunts in it, but the heart was gone."
LaBeouf, who starts work on the next "Transformers" sequel Tuesday, said the third installment will be the best one yet.
The new script restores a human element that got lost in the second movie, LaBeouf said."When I saw the second movie, I wasn't impressed with what we did," LaBeouf said in an interview Thursday at the Cannes Film Festival, where his finance drama "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" is premiering. "There were some really wild stunts in it, but the heart was gone."
Mikaela, Set Prop, Whitley Comfirmed And More (Updated)

Megan Fox in Mikaela Banes Makeup
From the Transformers 3 set in unspecified LA location is Megan Fox in Mikaela Banes makeup. I guess the goal is professional woman. I just see it as an excuse to post a picture of Fox.
Kym Whitley Confirms TF3 Role
Black Voices spoke directly with Whitley and confirmed her tweet that she is in Transformers 3. No information was provided on what the role is. (via Seibertron)
"The real excitement about working on the film just comes from working with [director] Michael Bay. He writes these parts for me and just lets me roll with it. You can't beat that. It's kind of like working with Larry David, when I did 'Curb Your Enthusiasm.' Michael Bay works fast though. He laughs a lot, too. You rarely get someone to just tell you to go ahead and do your thing. That's the beauty of working with him."

Sam apparently has entered the professional workplace complete with briefcase. Not sure if this means he has already graduated from college (suggesting at least a four year jump in time for the movie) or interning. According to TFW2005, info is from the manufacturers of the case.
Gabriela Plana Cast?
NBC Reporter Gabriela Plana posted a tweet that said "Working on transformers 3 shoot!!!". Now she could be covering the shoot for a story but a more likely explanation is she has a role in the film as a reporter. I would guess the role is to show a reporter on the scene moment involving a Transformers related event, say an anti-Autobot protest as suggested by the recent set images. Any case it is likely a cameo apperance so not adding to the cast list on the cheat sheet. (via TFW2005)
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Revenge Nominated For One MTV Movie Award

Best WTF Moment
Isabel Lucas (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) - Pretender moment
Betty White (The Proposal) - White feels up Bullock during wedding dress fitting
Bill Murray (Zombieland) - Cameo as himself
Ken Jeong (The Hangover) - Pops out of trunk naked
Megan Fox (Jennifer's Body) - Projectile vomit
W4C: More Transformers Join Cast, Other Updates
The official website for Transformers: War for Cybertron has been updated with new info about the game. Jetfire, Sideswipe and Thundercracker have joined the game cast. The site also has new information about the multiplayer modes Countdown to Extinction and Conquest along with more details about the four customization classes that were showcased in the recent trailer.



Multiplayer Descriptions
Countdown to Extinction
Defend your factor's base and save your team from extinction. Outmaneuver your opponents in order to seize the bomb in the center of the map and deliver the payload to the opposing team's base. Activate the bomb and hold your ground to wipe out your rivals. If the bomb is successfully detonated your faction is awarded a point.
Conquest
Team based tactics are the key to victory in this mode. Teams vie for control of the 3 Energon nodes as they fight to capture nodes from the enemy team and defend the nodes they own. Teams earn points for capturing and controlling nodes. The first team to dominate the scoreboard wins.
Multiplayer Descriptions
Countdown to Extinction
Defend your factor's base and save your team from extinction. Outmaneuver your opponents in order to seize the bomb in the center of the map and deliver the payload to the opposing team's base. Activate the bomb and hold your ground to wipe out your rivals. If the bomb is successfully detonated your faction is awarded a point.
Conquest
Team based tactics are the key to victory in this mode. Teams vie for control of the 3 Energon nodes as they fight to capture nodes from the enemy team and defend the nodes they own. Teams earn points for capturing and controlling nodes. The first team to dominate the scoreboard wins.
Transformers Hall Of Fame Inductees, Voting Begins

On the Transformers side, Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Megatron, Starcream and a fan favorite to be voted on will be inducted. Fans can vote at Transformers.com for whom they want the fifth TF inductee to be. The nominees are G1 Soundwave, G1 Grimlock, G1 Jazz, G1 Shockwave, and Beast Wars' Dinobot. Voting closes on May 28th with the winner announced at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
The press release:
HASBRO REVEALS TRANSFORMERS HALL OF FAME’S INAUGURAL MEMBERS
TRANSFORMERS Fans May Participate in Selecting One Additional Robot to Join Hall of Fame’s 2010 Class
Pawtucket, R.I. (May 10, 2010) — After more than 25 years of “MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE” action, Hasbro, Inc. (NYSE: HAS) is launching the TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame that will honor those influential in creating and building this iconic entertainment brand as well as actual “ROBOTS IN DISGUISE.”
In 2010, Hasbro will induct four individuals into the TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame who helped shape the global entertainment brand that has spawned popular action figures, comic book series, multiple animated series, video games and two blockbuster live action movies. The inductees include:
Bob Budiansky: While working as an editor for Marvel Comics in 1983, Mr. Budiansky named and wrote the personality profiles for most of the first 20 or so TRANSFORMERS characters. He then became the editor of the very first TRANSFORMERS mini-series, which led to his scripting most of the next 50 issues of the monthly TRANSFORMERS comic book. As he continued working with the brand on behalf of Hasbro, he named and wrote the packaging copy and personality profiles of dozens more TRANSFORMERS, and developed story treatments as new lines of TRANSFORMERS were introduced.
Peter Cullen: Mr. Cullen is a voice actor best known for providing the English voice for the wise and heroic AUTOBOT leader OPTIMUS PRIME in the popular 1980s cartoon series “The TRANSFORMERS” and in the 1986 animated film “The TRANSFORMERS: The Movie”. He reprised the role again in 2007 and 2009 in the live action TRANSFORMERS movies, and will return for the third installment slated for 2011. Additionally, he has provided the voice of five other TRANSFORMERS robots during his career.
Yoke Hideaki: While working at TAKARA TOMY, Mr. Hideaki invented the Micro-Robot segment within the MICRONAUTS toy line, which featured the engineering innovation of transformation in action figures that were no more than 3 to 4 inches tall. TRANSFORMERS characters MEGATRON, SOUNDWAVE and RAVAGE can trace their origins to Mr. Hideaki’s efforts. He acted as liaison between TAKARA TOMY and Hasbro during the early years of their business relationship.
Kojin Ohno: Mr. Ohno started his career at TAKARA TOMY, working on the design of the Microman and Diaclone toy lines, which would later become one of the inspirations for the TRANSFORMERS toy line. Mr. Ohno created SUNSTREAKER, which is considered the first “car to robot transforming toy”. He was also instrumental in the introduction of Beast Wars TRANSFORMERS for the Japanese market. He helped design toys for both live action TRANSFORMERS movies. He takes great pride in being the person who designed the largest TRANSFORMERS toy from Generation 1: FORTRESS MAXIMUS.
Budiansky, Cullen, Hideaki and Ohno will all attend the 2010 TRANSFORMERS convention (known as BotCon) in Orlando, FL and will be officially inducted into the TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame during the festivities on Saturday night, June 26, 2010.
Hasbro will also induct five iconic characters into the TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame. Heroic AUTOBOTS OPTIMUS PRIME and BUMBLEBEE, as well as evil DECEPTICONS MEGATRON and STARSCREAM, will be in the first class of robots honored with admission as chosen by Hasbro’s TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame internal panel of judges.
In addition, TRANSFORMERS fans around the world may visit transformers.com starting today and cast their online vote to select a fifth robot to join the inaugural class.
The ballot of finalists was created with input from several TRANSFORMERS collector fan media sites, which conducted their own online polling to ensure the ballot represented the robots that most resonate with fans. The ballot features SOUNDWAVE, GRIMLOCK, DINOBOT, SHOCKWAVE and JAZZ. Fans may cast votes daily from now until May 28. The winning robot will be revealed at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony at BotCon on June 26, 2010.
First introduced in 1984 by Hasbro and Takara as a toy line, the TRANSFORMERS brand has provided kids with hours of MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE fun with their action figures that convert from robot to vehicles and back again. Legions of boys around the world grew up creating fantastic adventures and battles set on both the planet CYBERTRON and Earth that featured the “good-guy” AUTOBOTS and the “bad-guy” DECEPTICONS. Since then, more than 7500 robots have been introduced, with five receiving the distinction of being in the first TRANSFORMERS Hall of Fame class.
Photos Of Autobot Twins At TF3 Set

Sporting “Autobot” center caps on the wheels, these two vehicles were captured doing some pre-production work before principal filming starts in a few weeks. We think you are looking at Skidz (green) and Mudflap (orange).
Skidz is looking much sportier than in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, with new front and rear fascias, larger fenders, sportier wheels and a big wing. Mudflap was previously based on the Chevy Traxx concept, but for this installment, it appears both cars will be built off the Chevy Spark.
I think the photos pretty much prove they are in the film despite Bay's "misinformation campaign". Exactly how much screen time they have remains unknown. For all we know, it could be a cameo appearance with the cars sitting in a parking lot for a scene (but I doubt it). It should be noted, I guess, that technically Bay didn't lie. After all, the Twins as we knew them from the ROTF are not returning since they have new look.


Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)