Monday, June 15, 2009

Arcee And Sideswipe Voice Actors


Chris (who has provided TF news in the past) is reporting that he has learned that Susan Blu is the voice of Arcee and Jason Griffith is the voice of Sideswipe in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Oddly enough, despite all the premieres, the voice actors is something no one is catching so don't have direct proof. However, both are experienced voice actors with a long list of credits.

Susan Blu has multiple Transformers ties. The primary for Transfans is the voice of Arcee in the animated Transformers: The Movie and the third season of the TV series and also did a voice in Beast Wars, and reprised Arcee for Transformers: Animated. She was also voice director of Beast Wars and TF: Animated. Jason Griffith is most notable for his role as Sonic for the cartoons and video games and this would be his first work for anything Transformers related.
From TFG2, below are a few images of Rampage (red in movie) and Sideways in CGI along with their real world counterpart. Rampage is apparently in his jackhammer mode. Overall they look pretty good.













ROTF Berlin Premiere

The world tour for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen premieres continues. The last few stops after Seoul have been Spain, Rome, Paris, and now Berlin. Tomorrow is London followed by Moscow. Below is video found by MichaelBay.com of Bay, Shia Labeouf, and Megan Fox as they walk the Berlin red carpet.

For pictures from the Paris premiere, click here. Bay's site also has a few pics from the various premieres here. Megan Fox continues to look outstanding at each premiere proving that over the top dresses are not necessary to look good on the red carpet. I can't help but wonder how many signatures the main trio will sign before all is said and done.





Early Revenge Of The Fallen Reviews

Between the various premieres in Tokyo, Seoul, Spain, Paris and the sneak peak in London, more then a few critics have now posted their reviews of the film. Something to keep in mind is that for a popcorn/action flick like Transformers 2 the goal is excellent audience word of mouth. The critics are mostly irrelvant as most tend to pan action flicks that have no goal beyond providing entertainment for a few hours. Regardless, it is still interesting to read what mostly UK critics have to say.


Total Film (4/5)

Fallen so frequently approaches the first pic’s all-out awesomeness, and even occasionally surpasses it - notably in an opening blitzkrieg in Shanghai and a forest face-off between Optimus Prime and three Decepticons impressive enough to merit comparison with King Kong’s multiple T-Rex smackdown - that it's this close to being the perfect summer flick. The problem is, it’s the parts you remember, not the whole.

Old folks may find the relentless sensory assault a little draining, but the bangs, ’bots and bombast ensure Fallen has everything Transformers fans will want and expect.

IGN UK Movies

the film reaches its pinnacle with one such action set-piece that takes place in a forest - a brilliantly crafted sequence that is kinetic, emotional and genuinely thrilling. Unfortunately however, it is a climax that comes only an hour or so into the movie - the remaining 80 or so minutes just never quite scale the same heights. That's the one BIG problem with ROTF; the movie stops dead halfway through, and then spends the rest of its overlong run-time building up a head of steam again, painstakingly setting up the eventual climax.

Don't get us wrong, we love Michael Bay and the particular grab-bag of delights only he can bring to blockbuster movies; huge explosions; quick, intense dialogue; lingering , pornographic shots of both girls' asses and military hardware. 90 minutes of Bay-ness makes for a thrilling flick, but if the clock starts ticking past the two hour mark and beyond, it all becomes just too much; your mind and senses need a rest.

Sci Fi Now UK 2/5

It’s paper-thin all the way through, with nothing in the way of characterisation or invention, just misjudged joke after misjudged joke (don’t be surprised to see a Constructicon’s testicles or a Decepticon humping Megan Fox’s leg), danger-less explosion after danger-less explosion and the sort of expositional exchanges that would make a ten-year-old wince. There are arguably one or two surprises but immediately these are followed up with the most formulaic, predictable plot-points, sucking the life out of any drama or tension there might be like a 200 foot vacuum-cleaner Decepticon, which, incidentally, does feature, as does a regular-size vacuum cleaner Decepticon. Troublingly, like so many other recent blockbusters (Terminator Salvation to name but one) there is so little that feels like a real threat: explosions are nothing more than decoration; all Transformers, both Autobot and Decepticon, are in dire need of an intensive training course in how to shoot; the much talked about Fallen comes across as little more than a computer-generated slouch; even Sam and Mikaela appear to be made of an indestructible, alien rubber alloy. ...the action is tediously unengaging and totally sterile, and nowhere near enough of a reward for the 40 minute bout of nothingness that precedes the final act.

The Mirror UK

In terms of explosions, firepower and sheer shrill, all-action, popcorn entertainment it is hard to see how this big'n'bold sequel can be topped this year.

Star Trek might have had more spaceships and aliens and Terminator: Salvation more grim-faced robots, but this Michael Bay summer blockbuster is pure mindless adventure mayhem that sticks firm and hard to its winning formula. In truth, it is a film for teen boys - and a bloomin' long one at that - but is also a guaranteed multiplex crowd pleaser.

Saying that, for the most part it is also a complex lumbering mess of a movie that is long on turgid backstory and short on tension, laughs and subtle acting.

Shiznit UK (4/5)

Here's the thing. Revenge Of The Fallen is a kids' movie; the secret to enjoying it as an adult is to unlock the ten-year-old within (and not the one in your cellar, bunnngg). It is, in common parlance, completely and utterly retarded. The juxtaposition between hardcore military war movie and shitty Saturday morning cartoon feels downright bizarre at times. You'll be creaming at the sight of the US army unloading their weapons on the enemy, only to feel a little ashamed when you remember their enemy is a race of evil alien robots who want to destroy the sun. Somewhere towards the end, when you realise the plot literally centres around magic dust, you'll feel ever-so-slightly silly for enjoying it.

In truth, Revenge Of The Fallen doesn't stray too far from the solid framework built in the first movie. It mixes superb action sequences – directed with panache and almost pornographic glee by a never-better Bay – with frequent scenes of light comic relief, some of which work (squabbling robo-hick siblings Skids and Mudflap provide a few laughs), some of which don't (Wheelie the RC truck humping Fox's leg). Naturally, the robots are the real stars again.

Marden's Nealy Dies In Copter Stunt?

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen co-star Matthew Marsden (SAS Graham in NEST) talks with Sunday Mercury about a helicopter stunt that nearly killed him in an interview on the eve of the London premiere of the movie. I assume this is a stunt filmed at Bethlehem Steel last June. Some of the article is below, click here for the entire thing.


“It was a nightmare,” recalls Matthew, speaking from his home in Los Angeles. “I had a very close shave when a helicopter crashed and missed me by a foot. I stepped out of the way a second before it hit the ground. The stunt went off too early, I should have been some considerable way away. I didn’t seriously injure myself, apart from shearing off one of my bottom teeth. There was a bit of blood, but my adrenaline kicked in so I didn’t feel it.

“I just remember the director, Michael Bay, shouting, ‘Oh my God! Everyone look at Matt!’. One of the crew rushed up and said, ‘Dude, do you have any idea how close that was?’. I said ‘As long as I look cool, I don’t care!’. People will probably think that it’s a computer-generated special effect, but I can assure you it was very real. It’s fine, I’m still here with all my fingers and toes, though not all my teeth.”

The Insider Shia Interview

Below is a video of The Insider talking to Shia Labeouf about Tranformers: Revenge of the Fallen and working with Bay. Information wise not a whole lot going on.

Lucas Talk Transformers


Isabel Lucas recently came out of hiding to appear at the world premiere of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen in Tokyo and spoke with Sky News from Australia about the experience of working on the film.



It is Lucas' first [press conference] and admits it's overwhelming. 'It's been a whirlwind,' she says. 'I've worked on five productions since Home and Away and this is the first one to be released, so I haven't ever experienced doing a press junket or a premiere, so this is like really being thrown right into the midst of it, into the deep end.'

Spielberg, who is an executive producer on the new Transformers movie, suggested her to director Michael Bay for the role of Alice after working with her on the HBO mini-series The Pacific, which he also produced. One successful audition later and Lucas had landed the biggest movie role of her career.

'I was really intrigued by the character because there is more than meets the eye - literally,' she says. 'She's a layered character, and that's interesting for any actor to play really something different from yourself and to understand and relate to her even though she might have darker intentions. She's fun to play.'

She describes one particular scene with LaBeouf which required an attention to detail that she'd never experienced before. The shot was so specific for a certain CGI effect that they were trying to achieve and the camera was about 30cm away and he (Bay) was like yelling at me so specifically to tilt my head down! Tilt it to the right! Tilt it down again! Now lift it slightly! But he really is an amazing visual genius, and the finished product you understand why he was being so specific with details.'

'They know that this genre of film is not really what I'm drawn to, I'm drawn to scripts that are unique and have meaning. But that's what is so wonderful about being an actor, is the diversity of the kind of films you can be a part of. I'm just honoured for the opportunity, and if it opens other doors career-wise I'll be very fortunate.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Arcee, Swerve and G1 Mixmaster

TF08.net again, this time with an image each of Deluxe Arcee in package, Swerve (Sideswipe repaint) and a repaint of Mixmaster in G1 Constructicon green.


Friday, June 12, 2009

Transformers London Sneak Peek Report, Spoilers

Earlier today, a few lucky Transfans around London got to go to a sneak preview of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. They were able to win tickets via various contests that Paramount UK was running. Blog reader Ali was one of those few and he provided the below pictures of the momento tickets he recieved for the occasion (thanks!). His report is mostly spoiler free but consider this a warning just in case.


Before the film started the lady briefly spoke about it and how were not able to put up a review up until Monday. She also mentioned we were the first to view the fully completed version; the one that was shown in Japan wasn’t fully complete.

Well first impressions it definitely packs a punch, jam packed in every sense - the story, action, definetly more robots, more humour but some of the humour was dragging a bit and not needed e.g. Sam's roommate Leon. The robots look awesome and you can actual see more detail in transformation, in particular keep an eye out (not that I think you'll miss it) for Ironhide's first transformation & Demolisher and also the fight scenes are much more detailed. Definitely glad I’m watching it at the IMAX and would recommend IMAX over regular cinema especially for this film, Michael Bay wasn’t lying. Those actual IMAX scenes are going to look AWESOME. The sound quality wasn’t as great and I’m mentioning this because there were times where I missed lines times & couldn’t understand what was being said, the Odeon cinema in Leicester Square is setup more like a theatre and kinda ol skool.

Things I can remember about the robots... everyone mentioned more or less is in the film, the twins start off as the ice cream trucks then they upgrade. Alice transforms. I remember seeing Bonecrusher, but no voiceover. More Decepticons come down but are not named; I can’t remember extra voiceovers for any Autobots or Decepticons. ...I know you'll enjoy it, everyone was clapping when the film was finished, I definitely am looking forward to going to watching it at the IMAX, you know what they say second times a charm.












For those looking for more spoilers, below is a report from TFW2005. Highlight to read.

To answer many frequent questions
- NO Barricade in movie
- No explanation why Megan Fox puts the white dress on and holds the flowers, just does it for no reason it would seem
- No explanation what the Twins reformat from the Ice Cream truck, they just do it in the hanger
- Bikes do NOT combine (you only see the rider ladies once and one bike is killed at end or badly shot)
- Optimus/ Jetfire combination NOT permenant, one whole booster ripped off fighting with Megatron and the Fallen. Prime tears rest off at battles end
- Jolt appears out of nowhere 1/2 way into film on the runway (as does Ratchet) and you old see Jolt one other time from what I could see. Never a main shot or close up of him. His hands sizzle electricity like the SW Emperor. He must have less than 5 seconds screen time
- There are LOADS of constructicons, after Devastator has combined you still see Mixmater and Long Haul loads, plus others
- Bonecrusher from 1st movie appears in truck mode
- You do see Soundwaves head but he never transforms. Voice is Welkers G1 Megatron voice
- The "Blackout/Grindor" bot is never explained, just appears, slightly different head to Blackout though
- Sideways only seen for robot for split second then back to car, then Sideswipe cuts him in half longways
- FINALLY a shot of Optimus turning into the truck!
- Megatron is a triple changer, you see him as robot, tank and a jet. Jet looked like tank but with flat wings, hard to see
- Mixmaster is triple changer, robot, truck and weapons platform. Uses platform mode twice at the end
- Shot of the protoforms arriving, some reused footage from first film. Some first film footage used with more prototforms added

Best Lines from the film
- The Twins "That hurt" - "It's an ass kicking, it's supposed to"
- The Twins "Maybe he's just a pussy!"
- The Twins when they see Devastator "Look at that mother f*BANG*"
- Jetfire (when hanger doors won't open) "Oh bollocks!"
- Jetfire "I'm too old for this crap!"

The good
- SUPERB Special effects, truely amazing
- The music score is great again, some lovely chior pieces
- Optimus is solid, really kicks ass - As does Bumblebee when he tries!
- Action, action, action!
- Some lovely moments between Starscream and Megatron

The bad
- Sam's mum getting stoned - Really annoying pointless scene
- Alice - Pointless character and waste of screentime
- And I am very, very, VERY sorry to say - Devastator. Totally pointless him being in the film. He doesn't get involved in the final battle and Simmons bringing him down is very WTF, by far Devastator biggest let down in movie
- When Sam dies and goes to Autobot heaven - WTF???

Stuff different from trailers
- Bumblebee never says "what is your purpose Sam" like in the Showest footage - I might be wrong about this one
- Some of the Showest sections are different takes in final film
- The military guy saying "Looks exactly like a truck" not in movie

Five More TV Spots

MichaelBay.com has posted 7 TV Spots. Two of them have been out for a week, two more I just posted about this morning and the others are new to me anyway.

TV Spot #7 - Wanted



TV Spot #8 - Mystery



TV Spot #9 - Drums



TV Spot #10 - Stomp



TV Spot #11 - Let's Roll Kids



TV Spot #12 - Team Kids



TV Spot #13 - Adventure Kids

Nest Hunting Demolisher In English

Much like with the Wheelie clip, click here for the other German clip now in English with Japanese subtitles.

To watch the embed below, click the left blue button.

David Letterman Revenge of the Fallen Trailer

A new trailer for Revenge of the Fallen had aired on The Late Show with David Letterman.

ROTF TV Spots #9 and #10

Two new TV spots premiered in the last two days, one is a 15 second spot (#10) and the other a 30 second (#9). The HD version has not officially been released so no titles. Spot #9 shows more kick-ass moments from the forest fight and has some scenes where the footage space shifted from rectangle to square (Devastator and forest fight), perhaps suggesting scenes shot on IMAX 70mm? As for #10, Tyrese finally gets a line in the commercials.

TV Spot #9 (click here for HD)


TV Spot #10 (click here for HD)

Wheelie Clip In English

The Wheelie clip is now in english with Japanese subtitles. I posted about it in the original German links clips post but finally the clip appeared on YouTube earlier today. I can't find the email from the person that gave me the heads-up but thanks.

New Divide Video Now Online

The video for Linkin Park's New Divide track from the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is now online at MySpace Music. There are seconds of new footage in the video but imany seem like an extra second or two of a scene already shown in the various trailers and tv spots.

Linkin Park – “New Divide”


Below are a few of the new images from the New Divide video :

ROTF The Game Walkthrough Footage

G4 has posted a sixteen minute long video that shows the game play for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen The Game by going through a few levels of the game as Bumblebee and as Starscream. It shows you several mission objectives, boss fights including Devastator, and most of the core features of the upcoming game. It’s really the best video yet for those sitting on the fence about buying the game or not.

Transformers 2 Seoul Premiere Video, Pictures and Irritated Press

Wednesday, the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen press tour stopped in Seoul, South Korea to premiere the film in that country. Pictures from the event can be found here and videos below.

The appearance didn't start to well according to a press report, in part because of the rain but because "Director Michael Bay and the two leads Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf were more than two hours tardy for a special screening of “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”" This led to a press walkout the next day when they where late again for a press conference. Thanks to Katie for the link.

Right now the cast is in Rome, Italy for that country's premiere but don't when that is event occurs. After that they will head to Spain.







Hot Topic ROTF Items, Contest



The Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen tie-in onslaught continues with Hot Topic's line of Transformers specific gear including shirts, wristbands, and more that reflects Transformers both today and back in the G1 days. Click here to view what they have available.

In addition, Hot Topic is running a contest giving you a two night stay in Los Angeles to watch the US premiere of the movie on June 22nd at the LA Film Festival. The prize includes 2 round trip tickets, 2 night stay and 2 tickets to the premiere. To enter you will need a Hot Topic account (click here to create) and then click here to enter and read all the contest details.

A Hotter Megan Fox

Below is a behind the scenes video that shows how a hotter Megan Fox was built using the lastest in CGI technology for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

ROTF Sneak Peek Via Blu-Ray, DVD

As part of the marketing blitz for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, The HD Room is reporting that beginning June 16th Paramount is releasing additional bonus features for owners of the first Transformers on Blu-ray and DVD. For Blu-ray owners, they can use BD-Live to access the features, for DVD owners (like me) hope you have an access code mixed in the packaging otherwise you will have to wait until it leaks to the internet to watch.

The 25 minutes or so of bonus features include:
- Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Sneak Peek — Footage from the new film
- From the set of Revenge of the Fallen: Day 1 — An exclusive inside look at the - first day of shooting
- From the set of Revenge of the Fallen: A Day in the Shade — A comical look at the differences between Megan and Shia's on-set treatment
- Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes from Transformers
- Fly on the Set: Pentagon — On the set filming of the Pentagon Military Command Center
- Music and Mayhem — Renowned special effects house ILM deconstructs the blockbuster action of Transformers
- Metal in Motion — Special effects tests and early robot animation
- Stunts 101 — An in-depth look at the amazing stunts in Transformers
- Choose Your Weapon —A fly on the wall glimpse into the selection of weapons and how they were used by the film's soldiers
- The Man in the Ice — From design to production, watch the Arctic come to life on various sets in Los Angeles, California
- Voices — The voices behind the Autobots and Decepticons
- Audition Tapes: Megan Fox — Megan's original Transformers audition