Wednesday, June 24, 2009

ROTF's twins black stereotypes? (Lol, Jazz)

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090625/ap_en_mo/us_film_transformers_jar_jar_again

Found that earlier. Just wanted to say a couple things...

"Skids and Mudflap, twin robots disguised as compact hatchbacks, constantly brawl and bicker in rap-inspired street slang. They're forced to acknowledge that they can't read. One has a gold tooth."

I just wanted to nitpick... It wasn't that they couldn't read, it was that they couldn't read the Language of the Primes (said so in the novel), which, if you guys didn't notice... no one could read. Wish people would do their research...

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

ROTF!!!!

IS FINALLY HERE.
Oh my lord.
It's finally here.
FINALLY.
/cries with joy/
Midnight showing tonight :3

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Saturday, June 20, 2009

ROTF interview

Sorry updates have been so... nonexistent lately >.< RL is screwing me over. Things will be back to normal soon.

Here's a cast and crew interview: http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=56191
Extended kitchen scene from ROTF: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwQuG5pZnH8&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Etfw2005%2Ecom%2F&feature=player_embedded

(Sorry about lack of posts, been really busy.)

Also, list of VAs for ROTF:

Optimus Prime - Peter Cullen
Bumblebee - Does not speak in the film
Ratchet - Robert Foxworth
Ironhide - Jess Harnell
Sideswipe - Andre Sogliuzzo
Arcee - Grey DeLisle
Jetfire - Mark Ryan
Mudflap - Reno Wilson
Skids - Tom Kenny
Wheelie - Tom Kenny
Jolt - Does not speak in the film
Megatron - Hugo Weaving
Starscream - Charles Adler
Soundwave - Frank Welker (but lacking the vocodered voice)
The Fallen - Tony Todd
Scalpel "The Doctor" - John DiCrosta
Demolishor also speaks, although the various other Constructicons do not. Devastator reportedly just grunts and roars, so there is no confirmation if Frank Welker is providing his voice. Additionally Kevin Michael Richardson provides the voice of an ancient Transformer seen in one sequence.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Sorry for the missed news, guys >.< I've been having some issues lately and didn't have time to get this out. Yes, I missed some news, but I'll post the most important stuff.

1. First, another round of TV spots-- the first one has an AWESOME shot of Sideswipe (whose figure I bought-- yayyyy): http://community.livejournal.com/tf2007fun/1429047.html

2. The HDRoom has posted some cool ROTF facts:

* 14 robots last time, 46 robots this time (ILM only)
* If you had all the gold ever mined in the history of man, you could build a little more than half of Devastator.
* Optimus Prime will be life size on IMAX screens in many forest fight shots. (That is awesome.)
* Devastator's hand is traveling 390 miles per hour when he punches the pyramid.
* The pyramid destruction simulation was 8 times bigger than the old rigid simulation all-time record holder at ILM.
* All robot parts laid out end to end would stretch from one side of California to the other, about 180 miles.
* Devastator's parts stacked tip to tip would be as tall as 58 empire state buildings.
* If all the texture maps on the show were printed on 1 square yard sheets, they would cover 13 football fields.

3. Preview of the G1 Megs bust: http://www.toychestnews.com/default.asp?t=1&m=1&c=4&s=678&ai=83604

4. Variety has released an article with some of the ROTF voice actors listed, along with other info: http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117940483.html?categoryid=31&cs=1

5. Orci+Kurtzman gave an interview on ROTF: http://www.filmjournal.com/filmjournal/content_display/news-and-features/features/movies/e3iecfa450e38f03b77320a92c99890ed5a?pn=2

6. An interview with ROTF's Tarah Paige: http://therealmtoys.wordpress.com/2009/06/15/interview-with-tarah-paige/#more-784

That's all for now-- a little note on the Sideswipe figure: he is as small as Naaly said (about 6 inches tall) and well put-together. Quite a complicated figure for as small as he is. Next on my list is Megatron, then Knockout and Sideways.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Unfortunately, I don't have time to do a full post as I am a bit sick and achy, but here is a preview of ROTF's score. It sounds even better than the first one: http://www.amazon.de/Transformers-Revenge-Fallen-Hans-Zimmer/dp/B00297FEUI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1245098067&sr=8-2

Sunday, June 14, 2009

1. Burger King is now giving away ROTF toys with their kids' meals. I am totally not going to go to Burger King and order one >>

2. TVshowsonDVD.com has posted quite a few videos for the Shout! release of G1. This includes trailers and product demos: http://www.tvshowsondvd.com/news/Transformers-Season-1-Video-Clips/12101

3. Sideways is suspected to be a double agent in ROTF, the same as he was in Armada...

Also, much rejoicing for Movietickets.com....


Saturday, June 13, 2009

Defiance, Alliance bestsellers

1. The Pentagon is looking at some Transformers-type technology.

"In a report posted on Breitbart.tv, US officials at the Pentagon are trying to develop mechanical types materials that can change form on command. Now before you start thinking "Oh Yes! The Wreckers are coming to life!", the technology thats being researched is at primary stages of practical use. Several university teams are looking into different ways to make "programmable matter"—made of individual pieces that can self-assemble into tools or spare parts. One of the approaches being used uses sheets of self-folding matter that can form three-dimensional shapes on command."

2. The IDW movie prequel comics "Alliance" and "Defiance" are now on the New York Times Bestsellers' List, with Alliance at #7 and Defiance at #5.

3. The new ROTF Robot Heroes "Battle of the Fallen" now has its picture on the web. Sly thing, you: http://bwtf.com/node/848

4. Takara Tomy has started a "Transformers Channel" for fans. It's all in Japanese, but hell, it's something, right? http://ch.yahoo.co.jp/takaratomy/

5. For those of you who ordered the Botcon 2009 Wings of Honor set, it should be arriving soon.


Sorry for the lateness and I probably missed a few things, but life was hectic today. Bought my ticket, though! I am officially in to see ROTF in IMAX at 12:01 at my local theater on June 24th. Wheeee! Also, I finally got my ass out and bought Acidstorm (Universe) because I've been doing several Acidstorm/Sunstorm rps lately and decided what the hell. Got him on sale at Krogers for $11.89.

Also, I've been getting very into Transformers Victory, so.... Who knows what will come of that. XDD (Tori, I still blame you.)

Friday, June 12, 2009

TV spots, movie novel details

Lots and lots and lots of news today.

1. ROTF presale tickets now make up 21% of the nation's ticket sales, so I would suggest getting yours before showings sell out!

2. An article was released where Megan Fox and Shia Labeouf talk about TF3, and Roberto Orci teases some things that a lot of you might already know if you were following my LJ before this...

BEVERLY HILLS, California — Two years ago, Michael Bay's "Transformers" shape-shifted itself into the biggest hit of the year. Later this month, "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" will try to keep the streak alive by living up to its predecessor.

Now, the people behind the popular franchise are talking trilogy.

"We enjoy making these movies. It's just like going to adrenaline-rush camp," grinned Shia LaBeouf, who stars in the series as Sam Witwicky. "It's a lot of fun to make."

"This [franchise] opened all of the doors that it did and gave me a lot of undeserved success," said Megan Fox, a breakout star from the first film. "I'm really happy to have been a part of these films, obviously, and if they wanted me to come back for a third one, I would.

"I owe them," she laughed. "I owe them my career, really."

So with a 2012 release date already hanging over their heads, the next question is a simple one: What would "Transformers 3" be about?

"I'd like to see some version of Galvatron," said Roberto Orci, who wrote the first two films with his partner Alex Kurtzman. "I would like to see Unicron, too, and really anything that ends in the word 'ron.' "

"Dinobots!" Orci added. "I think, eventually, the Dinobots are going to have to happen."

Although some fans remember the dinosaur-shaped Transformers as being a bit cheesy, Orci doesn't see it as an obstacle. "I didn't say it was going to be my problem [to overcome as a writer]," he laughed. "But as a fan, I would like to see some Dinobots."

Speaking of which, Kurtzman and Orci — who recently launched another blockbuster franchise with "Star Trek" — aren't completely sure they'll be returning for "Transformers 3." "It's totally possible that, just for the benefit of 'Transformers' to stay cool and awesome, we should have to let new people come in and do it," Kurtzman said.

"We don't like to say yes ... until we're actually going to have a worthy thing to represent," Orci agreed.

And with that comes another obstacle to "Transformers 3" even bigger than the 46-foot Devastator (I was informed that he was over 100 feet....) : time. Michael Bay recently revealed to us that he's going to take a "Transformers" vacation and film a "small movie" instead. Plus, stars like LaBeouf and Fox are hot Hollywood commodities with equally jam-packed schedules.

"I don't think [we'll make 'Transformers 3'] right away, but I wouldn't kill it either," LaBeouf explained, saying that just like Michael Bay, all the stars need a break from the giant robot franchise. "I don't think we're going to do one anytime soon. I think we all need a break from each other and a break from the project.

"We just need to collect ourselves and come back to it," he added. "They're hard to make, man."


I also heard that there will be triplechangers involved in TF3

3. A new ROTF trailer was shown on "The Late Night Show with David Letterman"-- and there's new footage!
(What could be a squadron of seekers at 0:21, a good shot of Megatron and Prime at the end...)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmWwG2W7c8w&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eseibertron%2Ecom%2Ftransformers%2Fnews%2Fnew%2Drotf%2Dtrailer%2Dfrom%2Dlate%2Dnight%2Dwith%2Ddavid%2Dletterman%2F16159%2F&feature=player_embedded

4. And finally, Michaelbay.com has been updated with 6 new TV spots! Holy hell...

"Drums", "Wanted", "Let's Roll, Kids", "Stomp", "Team Kids" and "Adventure Kids".

"Drums" is the same spot as shown on the David Letterman show.

Still a lot of the same footage, but there's some good new shots, so watch 'em anyway. (Must admit I like Stomp, despite its short length. Team Kids has a good shot of Sideswipe in action. Adventure Kids features the twins.)

See them all here: http://www.michaelbay.com/newsblog/newsblog.html

5. Aaand the N.E.S.T. and Devastator clip has been uploaded in English: http://eiga.com/movie/53181/video

6. The tracklisting for ROTF's Score:

1. Prime
2. Einstein's Wrong
3. NEST (Contains instrumental excerpt from "New Divide" by Linkin Park)
4. The Shard
5. The Fallen
6. Infinite White
7. Heed Our Warning
8. The Fallen's Arrival
9. Tomb Of The Primes
10. Forest Battle
11. Precious Cargo
12. Matrix Of Leadership
13. I Claim Your Sun
14. I Rise, You Fall

All right, that's all the news for now, but I wanted to talk about some stuff I found in the movel novel. When Sam, Mikaela and Simmons (along with Sam's roommate) identify the symbols Sam is seeing and show them to Wheels in an attempt to get him to read them, Wheels informs them that it is the Language of Primes, and that there are few who can read it. The four humans and Wheels travel to an air base, where Sam's shard stirs Jetfire.

Jetfire, after a few interruptions, informs them....

"In the beginning," Jetfire intone, his voice having regained some of the inherent dignity that attends great age, "we were ruled by the Dynasty of Primes--the first thirteen Transformers, created by the All-Spark to bring life to Cybertron. And as Energon was scarce, the All-Spark forged us a meabs to obtain more."

"The Matrix of Leadership," Jetfire explained solemnly. "Simultaneously a key and a driving force containing essence of the All-Spark itself, is it used to both activate and power the Great Machine... a machine built to destroy suns and collect their raw energy."

Sam and his roommate blather on for a moment...

"Fortunately for you," replied Jetfire, "the Primes were bound by one rule. Life is precious... thus any star system inhabited by living beings must be spared."

Mikaela asked what happened to the Matrix...

Jetfire was staring off into the distance, seeing something long ago and far away. "One of the Primes defied all rules. 'The Fallen'." At Jetfire's mention of the name, the otherwise cloudless sky seemed to darken. "To claim the Matrix for himself, he murdered his brothers. All but one, who escaped with it. The Great Machine was left abandoned, too dangerous to be used.

"The last, noble Prime hid the Matrix... in a tomb built from the bodies of his brothers. And as a final sacrifice, he sealed it from within." He looked down at his spellbound listeners.

"This was done so that your sun would be spared, and your species would survive."

Sam asks if everything started on Earth...

"And The Fallen intends to finish it. If he claims the Matrix, he'll use it to activate the Machine. Once it begins to draw upon the fires of your sun to create Energon, there is a very real chance that all life on your planet will end."

Mikaela asks how to stop him...

"Only a Prime can defeat The Fallen. That is why he returned to Cyberton to wage war. All direct descendents of the Prime Dynasty were slaughtered. Except for the one who was hidden away, an orphan, forever unaware of his destiny."

Sam looked up in recognition. "Optimus Prime."

Thursday, June 11, 2009

"New Divide" music vid

Linkin Park's "New Divide" music video!!
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=58849526

If you freeze at 1:14, you get a shot of the Original 13. At 1:54, there's a shot of them in their sarcophagi. Great shot of Optimus at 3:09. Teasers of the forest fight around 3:40. The Fallen at the end... >:3
1. Michael Bay has updated his website with an extended look at the Japan ROTF premiere, so be sure to check it out!

2. Takara Tomy is going to be bringing out new figures, which they've released a list of. All of them will be released in the 3rd quarter of this year.

Autobots
RA-13 Jetfire (6,800yen Leader Class, available Aug 2009)
RA-14 Canon Bumblebee (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Aug 2009)
RA-15 Madflap (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Aug 2009)
RA-16 Dunerunner (1,200yen Scout Class, available Aug 2009)
RA-17 Stratosphere (3,800yen Voyager Class, available Sep 2009)
RA-18 Autobot Blazemaster (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Sep 2009)
RA-19 Jolt (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Sep 2009)
RA-20 Icecream Truck (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Sep 2009)

Decepticon
RD-10 Fallen (3,800yen Voyager Class, available Jul 2009)
RD-11 Megatron (3,800yen Voyager Class, available Aug 2009)
RD-12 Decepticon Mixmaster (3,800yen Voyager Class, available Aug 2009)
RD-13 Ravage (2,300yen Deluxe Class, available Aug 2009)
RD-14 Scalpel (1,200yen Scout Class, available Aug 2009)
RD-15 Ejector (1,200yen Scout Class, available Aug 2009)
RD-16 Devastator (15,000yen Combiner, available Sep 2009)

3. The Wheelie clip that was released yesterday has now been released in English with Japanese subtitles: http://cinematoday.jp/page/A0002228

4. A five-page preview of the Cliffjumper Spotlight is available on Comics Continuum: http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0906/11/idwfirsts.htm

5. Hasbro has released this about a sneak peek deal available June 16th:

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. – In anticipation of the eagerly-awaited June 24 theatrical premiere of DreamWorks Pictures’ and Paramount Pictures’ action-packed Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Paramount Home Entertainment will offer consumers who purchase TRANSFORMERS on Blu-ray or DVD access to an exclusive sneak peek at the highly-anticipated sequel featuring Sam (Shia LaBeouf) and Mikaela (Megan Fox) as they desperately attempt to escape the Decepticons. Beginning on June 16, 2009, fans who purchase a new TRANSFORMERS DVD or Blu-ray disc at retail nationwide can augment their experience with access to compelling bonus content. Made available on a secure micro-site through an access code from the back of the Exclusive Sneak Peek sticker on the DVD package or via BD-Live, the footage includes two additional sneak peeks at the new film and over 25 minutes of bonus materials from the original film including never-before-seen deleted scenes, Megan Fox’s audition tapes and more.

That's all for now, guys. The ROTF Score track listing and a note from the movie novel later.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

New ROTF clips!

1. IDW has updated their Twitter with a contest to win 10 IMAX tickets to ROTF. All you have to do is simply re-tweet the original tweet. Click here to see the post: http://twitter.com/IDWPublishing

2. Anime Evolution convention in Vancouver, BC, is going to be hosting several Transformers names this weekend:
Gary Chalk (Beast Wars/Beast Machines Opimus Primal)
Brian Dobson (Cybertron Clocker/Red Alert)
Brian Drummond (Beast Machines Jetstorm, Transformers Armada, Energon, & Cybertron: Blurr, Shockblast, Jetfire & Jolt)
Gavin Blair supervising animator (Beast Wars)
Paul Dobson Sideways (Armada)

3. The German website Unterhaltung has updated their website with two clips, one of Wheelie (who is, for some reason, referred to as Wheels) and one of Demolisher. They are in German, but you get the basic idea of what's going on. It's good proof to back up what Michael Bay's been saying for a long time: there's a lot more focus on the mechs rather than all humans all the time.

Wheelie (and Mikaela): http://unterhaltung.t-online.de/c/18/99/86/38/18998638,vv=P5.html
Demolisher (and N.E.S.T.): http://www.prosieben.de/kino_dvd/videoplayer/64592/

4. The score for ROTF is now listed on Amazon.com, which reveals the cover. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00297FEUI/

That's about it for now! Sorry about the late post, I was rather busy this morning.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

More movie novelization details

I've been pressing on in the movie novelization with what free time I have, and I was very excited when I read the word 'Seeker' in one of the later chapters, only to find that it didn't mean Vossians or jets-- it means ancients. Seekers are mechs who came to Earth to find... something. Probably the Matrix, but I haven't read that far yet. Anyway... In all the shorts and commercials and TV spots, Sam admits to seeing things. Symbols. In the novel, it's revealed that these symbols are what many people in the fandom call Ancient--a language spoken from way, way back when. In ROTF, it's known as the Language of the Primes, a language that only Seekers can read. My guess, though it hasn't been stated, is that Seekers are actually the Original Thirteen, of which Jetfire is one. Or so I assume. Must continue reading. Have to say, though, I love Jetfire to death so far. He's like your crotchety grandpa, only with missiles and armblades and, like, the ability to turn into a Blackbird. Yeah.

Today's news

1. GM, sadly, has decided to halt production of the Chevy Topkick, which means no more Ironhide alt-mode. I wasn't all that worried before, but... it certainly seems that GM's bankruptcy will have quite an effect on future Transformers movies.

2. The ROTF cast is on an international press tour, which will take them to 9 different countries in only 2 weeks, so keep an eye out for interviews and pictures!

3. The Botcon 2009 exclusives are now available at the Club Store. Among the things that are available are the Botcon 2009 25th Anniversary Lithograph and the Wings of Honor set. Seibertron.com has posted the links to these and more: http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/botcon-2009-exclusives-now-available-club-store/16118/

4. TF08 has put up more images of the ice cream truck twin figure, which, though I hate the way these twins look (and so far, act), I have to admit looks good. http://www.tf08.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=879

5. Michael Bell has written a follow-up note to fans:

Hey T purists,

Thanks for all the responses to the demo. To those of you that liked, loved, and used it for personal gratification, cool beans!Those of you that thought it was limited in content or approach, remember, it was a demo..designed to show the possibilities and not for public consumption. Time constraints demanded an immediate presentable product. No time to start sifting through the best stories etc.

If IDW recants and gives us a go ahead with some scratch to do a good job, I assure you, you will be blown away by the end result.

In expensive but classy thrills for a .99 cent download. Much MORE THEN MEETS THE EYE!Again, thanks for the attention and cogent responses.

For those of you who took the time to write IDW, you are da bomb.

MB

6. Megan Fox is giving an interview on Entertainment Tonight as part of the show's "Transformers Tuesday". Check your local listings for times.

7. Wave 3 Legends Class figures are now hitting retail stores. They include The Fallen, Enforcer Ironhide, Grindor and Mudflap.

That's all for now!

Monday, June 8, 2009

Interview with IDW's Senior Editor!!!

Some very exciting news tonight! I emailed Andy Schmidt over at IDW today. He is a Senior Editor at IDW and works with the Transformers comics, so I gave him a shout for a short interview. Much to my delight, he replied! There is quite a bit in here that hasn't been released on other sites, so remember, you saw it here first!

Here we go:

Thanks very much! I realize that there are probably some things you'll have to be closemouthed about, and that's perfectly fine. I also apologize for the fact that this did not turn out to be "very short"...

No problem, Sam. Happy to help.

I really enjoy the way you portray Jazz and Prowl's friendship in All Hail Megatron, as well as the strange dynamic between Megatron and Starscream, which was very well written. Were there any friendships or brotherly relationships that you wanted to deepen within the IDW storyline?

My tenure on the books as editor is really just ramping up. I do believe that Shane McCarthy and Denton Tipton wanted to strengthen the bond between Sunstreaker and Sideswipe.
As for me and where the books are going while I work on them. I think you'll see a different focus in terms of who we focus on and what they're doing. Tough to say now, but there's lots of good character beats headed your way.

Drift is a very mysterious character indeed-- there's a lot of speculation as to whether he's playing for both sides. Did he truly defect to the 'Bots? (And this is probably more of a question for Hasbro, but is a Deluxe Drift figure really in the works?) Also in conjunction with Drift, is there anything planned for the neutral faction storyline we saw with Drift?

Drift is an Autobot through and through, my friend. Toy? No comment. There are no plans for a neutral faction story-line at this time. But I wouldn't say never on that one.

Perceptor's character has changed very drastically in AHM (which, by the way, I enjoyed very much). Did you specifically want to portray him differently?

Again, that was before my time, but yes, if I may speak on behalf of Shane, that was intentional. And you'll see more of this Perceptor in the months ahead--specifically, ALL HAIL MEGATRON #15.

Word is that IDW will be putting out movie Spotlights after Coda ends. Any characters you can spill?

Actually, it's a mini-series featuring spotlight-style issues, but there is connective tissue in all of them to the movie and some of them will connect to each other, to really build the fabric of the movie universe tapestry.

But to answer your question: Bumblebee, Sideswipe, Jetfire, The Fallen, Arcee, and Ravage, but not necessarily in that order...

What after the Spotlights? Is IDW planning on continuing the storyline straight on from AHM, or is there another that will pick up? (I also heard a rumor of a storyline concerning the Thirteen-- is there anything in the works with them or no?)

In order: I can't talk about Fight Club.
Sort of.
Maybe.
I've heard that rumor too.

There was also a rumor of a "moving graphic novel" idea proposed to IDW and supported by Michael Bell. Is there any plan to take that forwards and produce it?

Nope. It's just plain too expensive. It would be impossible to recoup costs on the project. (Damn.)

And, a small personal question: Who's your favorite character to work with?

I hate saying the obvious, but I really do love Optimus Prime. That said, I have a real soft spot for Blue Streak since he was the first TF I got as a kid and I was sucked in by him into this whole strange world. I'm also an Omega Supreme fan. I got him for Christmas one year and it was like the clouds parted and that big honking box shot down straight from the heavens. It was glorious!

Since you like Bluestreak so much (he's my favorite as well, by the way), do you think there will be a Spotlight for him?

I'd like to, just need a great story. And I'll be really critical of anything about him since he IS my favorite.

And also-- Sunstreaker's taken a hell of a beating in IDW--is it really over for him?

No fat lady sang that I remember seeing or hearing... (Check out ALL HAIL MEGATRON #14!)


.... SUNNY!!!
Thank the lord.
Anyway, that is all!

RyallTime, IMAX version, TFLAMB, Japan opening, Henkei Galvatron+ice cream truck twins, bios, novel

1. Chris Ryall has updated his blog RyallTime (http://ryalltime.blogspot.com/) with a 5-page preview for "I Am Optimus Prime". Here is a direct link: http://issuu.com/ryall/docs/tf_iamop.

2. According to Michael Bay's recent update, the IMAX version of ROTF will have exclusive extended footage. Here is his letter:

Hey everyone,

In Japan today. After a month and half seven days a week most days going till midnight me and my crew have just about finished Transformers. I have never seen such a level of dedication from every crew member in a movie before.

Even today after the press in Japan and right before the premiere tonight, I have to sneak out to a digital house to approve the last few effect shots.

It has been a long hard road, but really fun one to travel. What you will notice that is strikingly different than Transformers 1, is the level of animation detail. The robot characters (42 in all), you really can feel empathy for them. What is also very different is the sheer scale of the movie. We have been very tight holding back much of the best imagery in commercials and trailers.

The way to see this movie is on IMAX. Never before has there been 4k rendered character animation shot on full IMAX 70 mm film. This is a first and the results are stunning.

You will see Optimus Prime in a few shots where he is actually perfectly to scale on the IMAX 50 foot tall screens.

For IMAX, I created a slightly longer cut with more robot fighting. Four scenes were shot on IMAX cameras so the screen will fill the full IMAX screen for these scenes.

Haters beware.

Michael

3. The Transformers Live Action Movie Blog has updated their blog with very high-resolution shots of all the posters: http://transformerslive.blogspot.com/2009/06/super-hi-res-transformers-2-posters.html

4. The premiere of Transformers in Japan was a big hit, and gettyimages.com has uploaded quite a few images of all the stars: http://www.gettyimages.com/Search/Search.aspx?EventId=88044746

5. TF08 forums has posted a few pictures of some new figures. Most distinguishable are the ice-cream truck twins and a Henkei Galvatron, then an out-of-packae Jolt--the other one? Who knows. http://www.tf08.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=786

6. New bios for Sideways and and Rampage have been released courtesy of Tformers.

Sideways: Back on CYBERTRON, SIDEWAYS was a simple courier who avoided combat at all costs. He tried to always remain in the shadow of larger DECEPTICONS, where the AUTOBOTS might not notice him. On Earth, he's keeping much the same practice. He teamed up with DEMOLISHER early on, and hopes that if the AUTOBOTS find them, the CONSTRUCTICON can keep him safe.

Rampage: The stink of diesel fumes and hot tar follows RAMPAGE wherever he goes. His treads are packed with metal shards stripped from his victims, and the countless scratches covering his chassis are testament to hundreds of brutal battles. He lives to pound his enemies into submission, and he thinks of little else. His idea of beautify is the sight of sun glinting off the raw edges of shredded AUTOBOT armor.


SPOILERS that relate directly to ROTF's plot!

That's all the news for now, but I did want to mention that I continued reading the movie novelization and found something that vaguely surprised me. In an earlier interview, it was stated that the movie starts off with 15 Constructicons and ends with 7.
The 'bond' shared between the Constructicons is not what fans are used to. They are not 'brothers', nor do they really have a sense of oneness. They are not a gestalt as we think of it.
During the novel, a group of Decepticons goes to the depths of the Laurentian Abyss to rouse Megatron and return him to his proper place. Among these mechs are four Constructicons. When the Doctor (Scalpel) shouts that he needs replacement parts, the Constructicons stand in silence and then, as one, turn to destroy the weakest among them. Three of them are left standing. This was... quite a shock for me. Decepticons (and most certainly Constructicons) are brutal, but they, like any other gestalt, always seemed to have a certain brotherhood and loyalty to one another, and yet there they were, ripping each other apart.

I did want to say, too, that when Megatron was brought back, he spoke with the Fallen, who referred to him as his 'apprentice', and Megatron referred to the Fallen, in turn, as his Master. I'm not certain I agree with the whole premise of Megatron not being the big bad, but... I suppose you must top the first movie's villain in some way. The Fallen promises Megatron that he will soon be a Prime as well, and will be gifted the powers of The Dynasty. .....???? I shall continue to read...

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Tyrese Gibson, Linkin Park contest, Oil Slick and Rodimus Minor, Josh Nizzi, ROTF movie novel

1. ROTF actor Tyrese Gibson "tweeted" yesterday that the final cut of the movie is finally finished. Apparently cast and crew watched the completed movie at 3pm. Michael was sure cutting it close with this one...

2. Linkin Park has put up a new contest- the prize? A custom Fender guitar with the ROTF logo on it. For details, go here:
http://www.totalassault.com/contests/id/02157/

3. Seibertron.com has posted two new galleries: one of Rodimus Minor and one of an unnamed Oil Slick repaint.
http://www.seibertron.com/transformers/news/new-photos-of-animated-rodimus-minor-and-oil-slick-repaint/16103/

4. Josh Nizzi has posted all four ROTF adaptation covers on his website:
http://www.joshnizzi.com/

That's all for now! Sorry for the late post, I had some stuff to take care of this morning.
On a side note, I bought the movie novelization yesterday and am currently about a third of the way through it. So far so good-- Sideswipe looks like he has a pretty big part, which I was praying for. So far not too many spoilers. Ravage, Soundwave and a few others have shown up, and I would say it has focused about equally on humans and mechs so far. Off to lunch now, more later!

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Michael Bell needs us!

1. USA Today is holding a 'Design the Ultimate Transformer" contest. Here's the news post:
Think you can improve on Optimus Prime? Then put your pencil where your vocal processor is!USA TODAY wants you to design us a brand-new Transformer. Show us your idea in both pre- and post-transformation mode and tell us whether your creation is an Autobot or Decepticon and what it does. (For instance, check out Gannettron, an everyday USA TODAY newspaper box that morphs into a robot specializing in communications and news distribution via network satellite.)

Submissions are due June 18. You'll be able to view and vote for the finalists June 22, and the winner will be interviewed and have their design displayed in our June 26 print edition.

Technical specs: You can design your Tranformer on paper or digitally, but please send us the result in a single, high-quality (200-DPI) .jpg or .gif file. You must register for a free USA TODAY.com account in order to upload your design.

2. Michael Bell, the G1 voice actor for Prowl (I loved that voice ;.;) and Swoop (also loved that voice) is asking for fans' help!

"To all my Transformer buds,

I recently directed a demo for a series of motion graphic "Transformers" comics which could be downloaded via iPhone, iTouch, and other outlets. Many talented professional actors provided the voices for the characters in the demo including myself. The plan was to present it to IDW Comics who had shown more then a passing interest in this budding new concept. With a go ahead on producing the series, I would be employing the talents of as many of the original voices from the early series as possible. I had already cleared this with my fellow "Transformers" actors, and everyone was waiting in the wings for the response from the powers at IDW comics.

After months of mulling over it, they ultimately passed on the idea, and surprise surprise, decided to produce their own graphic motion novel without the voices or even the superbly heightened animation. So, essentially what you now have the ability to download is a plain old comic book.

Nothing new there.

Soooooo, I am taking my request to the troops. To all the die hard fans who I have met over the years at Botcon conventions, or who have written to me asking about my experiences working on one of the most inventive animated series in TV history- I need your help! I am requesting that you do something for me and my fellow actors, so we can in-turn do something really cool for you.

Please contact IDW and let them know that their concept of a series of comic books based on "Transformers" WITHOUT the talents of voice actors, especially many of the original voices, just doesn't cut it.

Please ask them to contract Creative Producers Chris Folino and William Katt, and make a deal for them to produce their concept of a downloadable graphic motion comic series of "Transformers" with professional actors, progressive animation, and lotsa sound effects.

On behalf of all those actors, animators, and studio techs that will get an opportunity to carry on a great tradition,

I thank you,
Michael "Prowl/Swoop" Bell"

(Here's a link to what the motion comics would look like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bH83gbGcCnE&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eallspark%2Ecom%2F&feature=player_embedded)
I personally think that's a really cool idea and I love the demo, so put in if you have time!

3. KaelPrime on YouTube has posted a new episode of the Moonbase2 podcast, this time with a nice long interview with Shane McCarty, the writer of All Hail Megatron.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MC3b5epypnA&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eseibertron%2Ecom%2Ftransformers%2Fnews%2Finterview%2Dwith%2Dshane%2Dmccarty%2F16100%2F&feature=player_embedded

4. A long audio interview with Peter Cullen and Frank Welker has been uploaded at www.allspark.com. Go here to download or read it: http://www.allspark.com/content/view/5308/16/

5. Also, some sad news--Transformers Animated has been fully removed from CN's Saturday running. It's only showed at 6 am weekday mornings.

6. Some of the Transformers actors commented on Stan Bush's new version of "The Touch":
http://tformers.com/transformers-transformers-stars-comment-on-stan-bushs-the-touch-sams-theme/11717/news.html

Friday, June 5, 2009

Just one bit of news tonight because I'm fraggin' exhausted and pretty much just want to settle down with a cup of coffee and some rp:

Shia Labeouf spills 'Transformers' secrets
LOS ANGELES - To reprise his role as Sam in "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," Shia LaBeouf played with pain — and paid with flesh.

The gouges on his back, the cuts on his knee and the stitches on his eyelid were all on-set battle wounds, the price of filming the anticipated follow-up to the 2007 summer blockbuster. But it was the broken hand, crushed in an off-set accident during production, that forced the screenwriters to react.

He's willing to reveal a few plot points — including how wrecking his pickup truck last July diverted the "Transformers" story — though he does it as if playing a game of Taboo.

"He hurts his hand in the middle of a human transfer," LaBeouf explains cryptically. "Sorry this is so mysterious. There's just certain words I can't say."

"Revenge of the Fallen" begins with LaBeouf's character, Sam Witwicky, heading off to college to distance himself from his shape-shifting robot friends. Sam's beloved Camaro, which transforms into Bumblebee, sits in the garage "sort of like his (parole officer), his guardian," LaBeouf said during a recent interview.

While at school, Sam starts seeing symbols through "epileptic seizure-type fits of information transfer," LaBeouf said. "He just becomes a factual volcano." The symbols form a map to an energy source the robots need to control sentient beings, LaBeouf said.

The actor becomes visibly excited when talking about "Transformers," his slight frame buzzing in a button-down shirt and skinny black tie. His left hand is wrapped in gauze, with a splint propping up one finger. "It's like 11 days out of surgery," he said, referring to a procedure to remove screws that stabilized his digits after the accident.

LaBeouf was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving after the crash, but prosecutors decided there wasn't enough evidence to charge, and he said all is well now. His hand feels fine, and the splint just provides extra protection his next job — a role in "Money Never Sleeps," Oliver Stone's "Wall Street" sequel — which begins in August.

"It's not broken, but it's newly not-broken," LaBeouf said.

There were also certain things LaBeouf couldn't do during production because of that late-night collision in West Hollywood: In a movie all about robots that disguise themselves as cars, LaBeouf couldn't drive — not legally anyway, since his refusal to submit to a breathalyzer resulted in a temporary license suspension.

"I was in some hot water making this movie," he said. "At 22, you're always in hot water."

But LaBeouf was able to perform many of his own stunts — including "some death-defying (stuff)" — in the effects-heavy flick.

"There's far more stunts this time," he said. "Aside from the fact that I was making the whole movie with a broken hand, my knee has stitches, my eye had stitches, my back was gouged."

During one scene, LaBeouf said he "literally stabbed myself in the eye" and had to be treated at a military hospital. Though credit may be due for toughness, it's LaBeouf's natural warmth that makes him perfect to play Sam, the film's screenwriters say.

"What you see on screen is very much what you get with Shia," said Alex Kurtzman, co-writer of both "Transformers" films. "He's incredibly open."

That openness is key to Sam's ability to connect with alien robots, the writer continues: "He's very unjaded and he has an open heart, and I think that's what (the Autobots) see in the character that allows them to feel they can communicate with him and share their secrets."

"It turns into a plot reason as well," adds co-writer Roberto Orci. "In the first one he's the keeper of the map, and in the second one, he in a way has become the map."

"Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" opens June 24.

BBTS Botcon, movie stills, Michael Bay article

1. BBTS (http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/) has added some of the Botcon Exclusives and other merchandise to their inventory. This is a direct link to the Botcon figures: http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/menu.aspx?menu=265

2. Some new movie stills are up, including a full-body shot of Devastator, a really good shot of Optimus and his twin blades.... which I'm going to upload because it's so fantastic. Other than that, mostly Bumblebee. Check them out!

http://www.celebutopia.net/forum/showthread.php/optimus-prime-robots-transformers-2-press-stills-6-118402.html?s=37fb08819bb98469313e1ce311711fb9&s=f287c63d31723297494640a1068d94ea

3. Next, an article on Michael Bay:

Michael Bay: Making movies, enemies, and money

(by Dorothy Pomerantz)

At the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, the sun can burn your skin in a quarter of an hour. The film crew of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, who have turned this unearthly landscape into a partially destroyed Egyptian village, are covered head to toe in floppy hats, long-sleeved shirts and boots to protect themselves. But not director Michael Bay. He leaps around the set like a little kid, in a short-sleeved Polo shirt.

"Fire in the hole!" An explosion goes off next to a crumbling house. Bay grins approvingly and darts to some fake rocks where stars Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox are cowering in the face of yet another attack by robots from outer space. Over the course of the day Bay will film 63 shots, three times as many as on most sets. "I hear stories about directors waiting eight hours to shoot," says Bay. "How can your game plan be so screwed up? If I ran a studio, I'd fire your ass."

As well known for his blowups on the set as he is for explosions on the screen, Bay has made his share of enemies. One actor who worked as an extra on Pearl Harbor recalls how Bay accused another actor of thinking the attack on Pearl Harbor was funny when someone laughed after hours of sitting for a take. An executive says Bay got so enraged at an extra on the set of Transformers that he made him stand in a corner. Actress Kate Beckinsale told reporters Bay made her feel ugly on the set of Pearl Harbor. (Not true, says Bay. He asked her to work out more.) Bay is known for sometimes clashing with stars on the set, such as Bruce Willis in the 1998 film Armageddon. "He has a tendency to try to be a director and change actors' lines," says Bay. "I don't think Bruce liked that I had a pair of balls." He takes a similarly defensive stand toward the critics who have called his films "vile," "brain dead" and "pandering."

But audiences love him. Bay's seven movies have pulled in $2.6 billion at the box office, putting him in the same league with James Cameron ($3 billion, including Titanic, the highest-grossing film ever, at $1.8 billion). That means something at a time when the movie business is going through its own action thriller, as studios run low on capital and people stop buying DVDs. (Although theaters keep half of ticket sales, the gross amount is a good proxy for the movie owner's total revenue, which includes DVDs and other money streams.)

Bay brings his movies in on time and on budget, a rarity in Hollywood. Because his pay is largely based on the film's profits (usually one-third of the take after the studio recoups its production and advertising costs), he's got plenty of incentive to rein in expenses. "Michael makes me look good because he counts every penny," says Jerry Bruckheimer, who has produced five of Bay's films.

The new Transformers movie (the second full-length feature in the series) cost $195 million to make. But Bay estimates it would have cost $10 million more if he hadn't partnered with General Motors ( GMGMQ - news - people ) and the U.S. military to get free cars, helicopters and battleships. By keeping the budget (relatively) low on the first Transformers flick, in 2007, he was able to increase his share of the movie's $708 million worldwide gross, earning $80 million from the film. So what if those product placements make his movies look like long commercials? "People say it's whoring out, but it's not," says Bay, 44. "Advertising is in our lives. It's unavoidable. To think you can't have it in a movie isn't real life."

That's all for now!

Thursday, June 4, 2009

ROTF bios, Megatron holds up the neighbors, signing in London

1. First is a rather large LOL. Seriously, this is... Oh lord. Here's the link to the article, but I've pulled out a few choice statements below:

http://www.windsorstar.com/hour+standoff+ends+peacefully/1660116/story.html


"A 25-year-old Windsor man who allegedly pointed a handgun at his neighbours was arrested on Wednesday after police officers surrounded his west end residence.

The three-hour standoff forced the lockdown of a nearby elementary school, and drew a police response that included tactical officers, body armour, submachine guns, sniper rifles, a police dog and the mobile command centre.

“We treat everything as real,” said Insp. Kirk Mason at the scene after the man had been taken into custody.

“There will be a search of the premises and hopefully we’ll come up with whatever it is that he was waving out the window at his neighbours.”

But the man’s friends accused police of overreacting, and said his supposed handgun was a toy.

“It’s a Transformer,” said William Findley, 24. “It turns into a Luger. It’s an 80s-style Transformer... He’s had a really bad day. People are treating him like crap.”

Findley said his friend had a pellet gun in the house at one point, but it was elsewhere at the time of the incident, and the only thing left resembling a weapon was his “Megatron” toy gun."

One word, man.
Fail.


2. For all of you Londoners, on June 27th there will be a signing at Orbital Comics featuring Simon Furman, Nick Roche, Jon Davis-Hunt, Liam Shalloo and Boo.


3. The 5-page preview for Revenge of the Fallen: The Movie Adaptation is online here: http://www.comicscontinuum.com/stories/0906/04/idwfirsts.htm


4. Gonna finish off today with some ROTF bios:

Mudflap: Young but eager, MUDFLAP has wanted to be a full-fledged warrior under the command of OPTIMUS PRIME®* for as long as he can remember. He and his twin brother AUTOBOT SKIDS®* traveled for years to Earth, just in the hopes of joining up with their idols. Being on Earth with OPTIMUS PRIME and the other heroes of the Great War is a dream come true. Recreate exciting movie scenes or stage your own living room battles with this AUTOBOT® sidekick! This super-cool figure features MECH ALIVE gears that reveal a cannon in robot mode to take on DECEPTICON® enemies! A firing missile gives you added battle power! Convert to vehicle mode to unleash a Chevy® Trax™ concept car and race into action!

(Don't you love all the copyright symbols?)

Cannon Bumblebee: After the battle of Mission City, and the discovery of new DECEPTICONS®* on Earth, BUMBLEBEE decided to upgrade as many of his systems as he could. With the help of AUTOBOT RATCHET®*, he added some human missile launchers to his arsenal, and modified his vehicle mode to make his weapons accessible. He was caught off-guard too many times by the DECEPTICONS. Now when they come around he’ll be ready.

Interrogator Barricade: Repaired and retrofitted after the battle of Mission City, BARRICADE elected to remain on Earth while STARSCREAM®* returned to CYBERTRON™*. He has devoted his time on Earth to gathering intelligence for the inevitable rise of the DECEPTICONS®*. He stalks and captures important humans, then scans, interrogates and disposes of his captives using the highly sensitive probes built into his vehicle mode.

Mixmaster: Resident chemist and explosives expert for the elite among the DECEPTICONS®, MIXMASTER has spent his entire life learning all there is to know about chemical interaction. He can make thousands of poisons, explosives and deadly gasses from the materials around him. The other DECEPTICONS rely on him to fashion powerful warheads for their missiles, and dangerous venoms in which to coat their blades.


Megatron: Trapped in the black, crushing depths of the sea, his mind inert in the grip of stasis lock, MEGATRON knew nothing of the desperate search mounted for his remains by the other DECEPTICONS®. When he was finally brought back online, their effort and sacrifice meant little to him. The only thing that had any meaning was revenge. He would have his vengeance against the human boy who cheated him of his prize, and he swore to celebrate over the smoking wreck of OPTIMUS PRIME®.

FAB Sword Slash Starscream: Around the world, the AUTOBOTS®* battle in secret to destroy the evil forces of the DECEPTICONS®*. Little do they know that an even deeper threat is about to arise. Returning to Earth after ruling on CYBERTRON™*, STARSCREAM is ready to conquer. He brings new skill to the battle against the AUTOBOTS. The defenders of Earth should tremble in fear at the power of STARSCREAM!

Scalpel (aka the Doctor): SCALPEL has a massive database of anatomical data for millions of creatures across the universe. He can disassemble anything that doesn’t struggle too much in a matter of minutes, and usually puts it back together with only a few parts in the wrong place. He serves as medic to the DECEPTICON army, but most DECEPTICONS® prefer to suffer in silence rather than allow SCALPEL to work on them.

Dune Runner: Back on CYBERTRON™, most rolling surfaces are flat, lightly textured roads – perfect for speed and traction. It wasn’t until he got to Earth that DUNE RUNNER experienced anything like sand or shale. He can’t say he enjoys his new vehicle mode, but he appreciates that it lets him patrol the deserts and mountains, where many DECEPTICONS® have taken to hiding.

Ravage: Bulleting down through the atmosphere at better than 15 times the speed of sound, RAVAGE considers the data he has already amassed on the small, soft creatures that inhabit this planet. They seem weak and fragile, yet they are the ones that destroyed MEGATRON®. That is a fact he will keep in mind as he penetrates their most sensitive installation. Against such an unpredictable enemy, stealth will be his watchword.

I always thought of Ravage as female... Hmm...
Anyway, the end for today. Good night!

Hasbro questions, movie database update

1. This isn't really news, I suppose, but according to press releases, ROTF's first 5 days are aimed to bring in around $160 million. Hell of a number, but I think it can make it. I have never been this excited for a movie. Buying my IMAX tickets today, win!

2. More answers from Hasbro, questions formulated by the TFormers crew:
TFormers.com: Will newly-introduced Transformers Animated characters from Season 3 such as Rodimus Prime or Strika be produced for the toyline?
Hasbro: While we can't comment on which specific characters will be available in the toy line, there are definitely a few that debuted in Season 3 of the Animated Series. [From BotCon 2009, we have since learned that Rodimus will indeed get a character -ed]

Do you ever check out fan forums like TFormers.com, for customization ideas?
Considering the amazing stuff that fans create with mostly minor modifications & paint on existing molds it would seem like an excellent source of leads to expand the product lines while heavily reusing existing components. As a team we often review many of the fan forums to keep our finger on the pulse of our collectors, but we do not and cannot use ideas from our fan base. We know that our fans come up with some great ideas especially when they coincide with where we are taking the brand!

Can we expect to see a "Premium" figure series in the upcoming movie line similar to the line from the 2007 film?
At the moment, there are no plans to offer a premium series line. Rather than offering more new decos of existing molds, you can expect to see more new molds in the realistic movie styling than you did in Spring of 2008 following the first film.

3. The movie database site has been updated with a sort of 'stat card' for both Wheelie and Skids, so check it out!
http://tformers.com/transformers_database/movie/393/Skids_Autobots_2009.html
http://tformers.com/transformers_database/movie/382/Wheelie_Autobots_2009.html

That's all for now! 20 days left!

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

ROTF poster, iPhone IDW app, EJ Su, Round 2 questions, Shia's hand

1. As I mentioned earlier, IDW is concentrating on making their comics available online, and they've just now sealed a deal with Apple--an IDW app available for iPhones. All you iPhone users can now download all four issues of both Alliance and Defiance for only $0.99 an issue, and my guess is IDW will not stop there when it comes to digitally-available comics.

2. The final movie poster for ROTF is now online, thanks to Empire Online (click it for a bigger version):


3. E.J Su, a longtime Transformers artist (Infiltration and Devastation are some of his most well-known) who worked more recently on the series Transformers Animated, has posted several pictures from working on the set. Here's a link to the update on his DeviantArt page:

http://ej-su.deviantart.com/art/Animated-at-CN-Studios-124657692

4. Here is "Round 2" of questions from Hasbro at Botcon:
* How long is the ROTF line scheduled to run? While there may not yet be a concrete end date yet, is there product slated through Christmas '09 or even Spring of '10? When it ends, will we see a return to Animated and Universe, or something new?
The movie line is planned through Spring of 2010 and will include both new versions of core characters pulled directly from the movie and several new molds of characters inspired by the the real world styling seen in the film.


*Is there a difference between obscure characters and brand new characters to the Hasbro design team? Do Hasbro's toy designers prefer to have complete freedom in designing a toy (or repainting an existing one) to make a brand new character or the challenge of modernizing the appearance of an old character (either through a new mold or repaints) while still keeping it recognizable as being the same character?
This varies from designer to designer. The challenge of creating a new character or one from the past is the same because it is putting out the best toy possible. Either way, it is a rewarding part of our job to be able to do this stuff day in and day out. Whether it is designing a new toy or re-imagining a classic, each has its own unique challenges.

*Transformers fans have noticed that a number of the recent secondary and tertiary retail store exclusives have been prior figures in new packaging. For an example, there are the Cybertron Scouts in Universe packaging. Why is this done? Is it excess/leftover stock simply put into new packaging, or new stock manufactured solely for the re-release?
While we do not want to get into too many specifics, we felt that for the items in question, they were still relevant and delivered the core aspects of Transformers: conversion and the story of good vs evil. Needless to say, these items were produced and put into the current Universe packaging in order to meet a specific need at the time.

5. For those of you who have read The Veiled Threat or have other knowledge of what became of Lennox and Epps after the first movie, you are aware of the organization N.E.S.T. LG phones have teamed up with ROTF to put out a website about our favorite non-biological extraterrestrial organization.
http://www.lgnest.com/

6. Shia Labeouf's hand injury was worked into ROTF. In an article published in Wizard's Transformers special issue, Shia states that a small injury to Sam's hand was in the script before his injury. He then added that Sam's hand is injured en route to the Space Bridge.

.... The Space Bridge.

Shia's other injury (the one to his eye) is reputed to have happened at the Space Bridge set.

That's all for now! Thanks for the comments, guys, they're much appreciated! I usually answer comments with a comment of my own, so if you left me a note, be sure to check back!

New trailers, ROTF comics, comic release schedule, new theme adaptation, target M&Ms, IDW comics online

1. To start out today's news---- three new TV spots!

"Mystery"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCgxVnR5epw&feature=player_embedded

"Wanted"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvMCiaHoP-4&feature=player_embedded

And "Fate"
http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/transformers-2/tv-spot-fate

2. The ROTF comic issue #3 synopsis from the blog of Simon Furman:
"Okay, by now you probably know the score: another week another serving of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (the comic book adaptation). This week (3rd June in the US, 4th in the UK) it’s the turn of issue #3, and events crank up to fever pitch as the human contingent and crotchety old duffer Jetfire go in search (well, he’s a Seeker after all!) of the Tomb of the Primes! Meanwhile, the Decepticons are doing some searching too, and number one on their seek and eviscerate schedule is Sam Witwicky! Secrets from the Transformers dim, distant past are revealed and The Fallen… well, wait and see! Art this issue is by Alex Milne, pinch-hitting for regular artist Jon Davis-Hunt (who returns for #4… 22-pages weekly, it’s a killer schedule!)."

3. The Transformers comic release schedule for June and the beginning of July:
June 3
TF: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Prequel: Alliance TPB
TF: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Prequel: Defiance TPB
TF: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Adaptation TPB
TF: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Adaptation #3
TF: Best of UK: City of Fear #5
TF Animated Vol. 9

June 10
TF: Revenge of the Fallen Movie Adaptation #4
TF Robot Heroes: I Am Optimus Prime HC

June 17
TF: Premiere Edition Vol. 2 HC
TF Spotlight: Cliffjumper

June 24
TF: All Hail Megatron #12

July 1
Classic Transformers Vol. 4 TPB
TF Spotlight: Metroplex

(And after that, as previously stated by IDW writers and artists, AHM Coda will begin, as well as Spotlights for the movie characters.)

4. Cheap Trick's new version of the Transformers theme can be found here:
http://www.imeem.com/people/7XUeXfY/music/HTU9quXy/cheap-trick-transformers-the-fallen-remix-radio-edit12396/

5. For those of you who couldn't make it to Botcon, never fear! The Razorclaw and Elita figures will be available in the Club store, says Pete Sinclair, so don't go trolling eBay just yet! (Speaking of eBay, I am doing some major trolling to get figures on my wish list, namely Armada Starscream, ROTF Sideswipe, G1 Deszaras and Leozack. Big thanks to Tori for getting me into Transformers Victory. The rest of you should watch it, too-- it's all Japanese, but subbed. Very good show.)

6. Target now has an offer-- buy 5 bags of M&Ms and you can get a 'free' Optimus Prime dispenser.

7. Also, some news that IDW is going to be putting previews of their comics online via iPublishCentral-- which is good news for a lot of us, since sometimes the 5-page leaked previews just aren't quite enough for us.

That's all for now-- I keep getting more and more excited for ROTF, can't wait!! 21 days left!

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Shia Labeouf's new interview

(Written by Bob Strauss)

Shia LaBeouf has survived another one.

Another Transformers movie, anyway. One that promises, in the delicate language of a studio promotional campaign, “even bigger giant f---ing robots” from outer space. (Seriously. That’s what it said on promotional T-shirts given out at Comic-Con.)

LaBeouf’s back in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen as Sam Witwicky, misunderstood kid turned friend of the good alien Autobots and target of their enemies the Decepticons, mechanical beings that can turn themselves into cars, helicopters and, in a film that climaxes at the ancient pyramids of Giza, probably the most high-tech chariots you’ve ever seen.

Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

LaBeouf is also back in the hands of volatile director Michael Bay, who made quite an impact with the first Transformers by, among other skills, yelling a lot. Of course, standing between the director’s temper and the young, sometimes trouble-prone actor is the formidable figure of producer Steven Spielberg, who’s been a mentor to LaBeouf through such star-making hits as Disturbia, Eagle Eye and, most conspicuously, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, which Spielberg directed while giving Shia the plum role of Indy’s son.

“Mike has been better this time, he’s more comfortable and he’s doing different stuff,” says LaBeouf, looking buff but for the cast on his broken hand, during an interview in Los Angeles last autumn. “It’s wild to watch Mike grow up and to acknowledge it. Every filmmaker, every movie out, something changes. You either gain something or you lose something, and I think this time Mike has gained a lot. I also think working with Steven is really transforming Mike. His preparation is very different on this one than it was on the first one.”

Maybe. But one still can’t imagine the soft-spoken Spielberg ordering Transformers co-star Megan Fox, when she arrived on the set of Revenge of the Fallen too skinny for the director’s taste, to go eat some cheeseburgers.

“Megan Fox is gorgeous, still,” LaBeouf gallantly affirms. “And no, I didn’t think she was too skinny when she came back to do this. Megan has never looked bad. There’s always something that Michael says, but he’s been good.”

LaBeouf has been on his best behaviour for a while, too. Over a nine-month period in 2007 and 2008, the just-turned-legal actor had some run-ins with the law, culminating in the late-night summer car crash that damaged his hand and led to the loss of his license when he refused to take a Breathalyzer test (as with the earlier arrest and bench warrant for unlawful smoking, no charges were ever filed against LaBeouf). Many were ready to chalk the incidents up to a child actor losing control when unimaginable success coincided with becoming an adult (he turns 23 this month).

But LaBeouf appeared earnest and sober when we spoke. If he was high on anything, it was enthusiasm for his latest movie, where the injury was written into Sam’s part of the story.

“It’s bigger, faster and stronger than what we did the first time,” he says. “We’re blowing everything up. I was just at Holloman Air Force Base, where we blew up an entire town! There are new characters that are interesting. Our banter is fast and it’s fun, it’s table tennis.”

And what of average-teen-turned-world-saviour Sam Witwicky?

“There’s cool stuff that happens to Sam. Sam starts to lose his mind. He starts having visions of his grandfather, Archibald Witwicky, and that’s fun to play around with. And recess time with John Turturro [who plays the addled fed constantly at odds with Sam] is always fun…. It’s like Groundlings Theater,” LaBeouf says, referencing the L.A. comedy troupe whose alumni include Will Ferrell and Lisa Kudrow. “You’re ad libbing all day long. One of the beautiful things about Mike is that he’ll allow it. You can do free-form thought the whole day.”

Despite his hard-earned success — born into a cash-strapped family of L.A. hippie artists, Shia invented a career as a foul-mouthed child stand-up comic before taking the Disney TV kid route — there’s not a hint of arrogance in LaBeouf. Indeed, he still seems more surprised than anyone that he’s become the highest-profile action hero of his generation.

“Something’s obviously off; nobody expects Garry Shandling to save the world,” he half-jokes, convinced he’s no more attractive nor masculine than the prune-faced comedian.

That noted, LaBeouf otherwise feels at home in the world of high-stakes filmmaking. Working with many of the same people over and over again has brought a sense of belonging that was hard to come by in the rough neighbourhoods and broken homes of his childhood. Of course, he realizes that finding a nurturing work “family” on the sets of nine-figure megaproductions is about as rarefied as it gets, and LaBeouf certainly appreciates it.

“I, personally, don’t think there is a better job on the planet,” he says. “And there is no better way to do it than to make movies with friends. You can bounce ideas and be able to collaborate and not feel threatened for having an idea. And it’s great to be around people who have full existences…. They still have time to make movies, but show me that there’s a cut-off point when life starts.”

After going at TV and movies non-stop for 10 years, LaBeouf is enjoying a little cut-off time himself. He hasn’t worked since Revenge of the Fallen wrapped, and for the first time has shifted the drive that got him to the top (but may also have been steering him toward destruction) into neutral.

“I’ll just play it by ear for a while,” he says. “I could use a little break. I don’t feel any pressure to do anything, really. I mean, we’ve just been goin’. If anything, I feel pressure to slow down.”
Lots and lots of news today, to start out with, and then, in a separate post later today, I'm going to be putting up my review of Universe Sunstreaker and Sideswipe, as well as (perhaps) Universe Bluestreak. My camera, at the moment, is dead, so you'll have to have them in a form similar to the 'interview' forms from Armada Starscream and ROTF Sideswipe.


Now on to the news!


1. Two new bios have been put out of ROTF characters Swerve (who is a repaint of Sideswipe with a different helm mold) and Gears (repaint of the first live-action movie's Stockade).

Swerve: Swerve is highly intelligent, though you wouldn't know it to watch him drive. His duties as a metallurgist and fabricator for the Autobots expose him to a lot of toxic chemicals, which his circuits have been constantly exposed to for years. He has trouble holding a straight line as a result. The other Autobots prefer to keep him far away from battle, since he aims about as well as he drives.
Stockade: If there's a negative angle to be found in any situation, Gears will find it. It's not that he's a miserable guy or that he's unhappy on earth. He just really likes complaining. Nothing makes him happier than having something to gripe about. The other Autobots actually find his complaining funny, rather than annoying, which is part of the reason he keeps on doing it.

2. The Exclusive Electro-Disrupter Ligier is due for release in August 2009, and I must say that, from the pre-order images, it looks like a fantastic figure. Very sturdy, very poseable. It's a very balanced figure as well, because though it could be top-heavy, they've balanced that with the lower legs and feet.


3. The Fallen's concept art has been released, and it's a good way to see a lot of little details on the character:










4. IDW is going to be giving movie characters their own Spotlights! After the release of Cliffjumper and Metroplex's Spotlights, the IDW crew will be turning their attention to some of our favorite movie characters. Just who hasn't been released yet, I am hoping for Sideswipe, Barricade, the Fallen, Megatron... There will be 5-6 released.

5. The upcoming ComicCon edition of GEEK Monthly will feature a Botcon 2009 cover, so be sure to take a look.
---
6. Also, speaking of ComicCon, San Diego Comic Con's Exclusive Reissue Soundwave will be sold there. The images weren't very good, but I got the bio:
"'Cries and screams are music to my ears.' It is said that Soundwave can hear a fly sneeze. Uses anything he hears for blackmail to advance his status. Opportunist. Despised by all other Decepticons. Sensors can detect even lowest energy radio transmissions. Able to read minds by monitoring electrical brain impulses. Acts as radio link for others. Locates and identifies Autobots, then informs Decepticons. Carries a concussion blaster gun. Often target of retaliation from his comrades."
I... really like that bio, for some reason.
---
7. Also: the covers for AHM Coda have been released on Chris Ryall's blog:
I would have uploaded the pics directly, but they're being finicky.
---
8. Keep your eyes peeled for a new M&Ms commercial featuring Optimus.
---
9. Check out BBTS for some new pre-order updates. (I personally want the movie scout set.)
---
10. Tonight's episode of Entertainment Tonight may or may not feature an exclusive ROTF clip, as teased by last night's episode. I would tune in anyway, just to check it out.
---
That looks like it for now, guys! Another update tonight.
(Edit: Sorry the end is all squashed together, having some editing issues.)

Monday, June 1, 2009

Botcon present

Finally found out what my Botcon present is:


Binaltech's Electro-Disruptor Mirage!


He's being sent to my friend's house, but I should have him by the 24th of June. Many thanks to Bekka!! As soon as I get him in-hand, I'll have a review and pictures up.

DRIFT!!!

WE ARE GETTING A DELUXE DRIFT!!!!!!

And other news from Hasbro:
1. Hasbro showed us Human Alliance Skids and Arcee with Mikeala. Looks nice!
2. EMP generator will attach to TFA Cybertronian Ratchet, comes with paddles for a "jump start"
3. All pieces of Wingblade Optimus fit on Voyager figure as well
4. ROTF Scout Brakedown is colored in G1 Brakedown colors in concept art
5. Deluxe Drift!!!!! Showed us some design drawings ... in very early stages
6. Leader class Starscream ... complete with hands! Gatling guns on his forearms w/ speech and TF sound, plus mech alive.

Kmart promotion, ROTF website, TV spots, interview with Grimlock's voice actor, emailing Derrick J. Wyatt

To start off today's news, Kmart is starting a promotion for Revenge, which is kicking off on June 7th. It will focus on Father's Day, which will be ROTF themed. There will be several promotional clothing items, commercials, and a large Transformers-themed 'headquarters' at the front of each Kmart store.

2: The official ROTF website has been updated with fanart. http://www.transformersmovie.com/upgrade_flash.html Go check it out!

3: As of today (or Wednesday), according to Michael Bay, Revenge of the Fallen is officially theater-ready. Finally.

4. More and more TV spots are starting to appear, including "Destiny", featuring Linkin Park's "New Divide".


I keep thinking over the Revenge of the Fallen Lockdown figure that was mentioned in Hasbro's Q&A session, and it seems like he'll be a really awesome figure. He's been redesigned from Animated to fit the ROTF line, which I cannot wait to see.

And last but not least, I have seibertron.com's interview with Gregg Berger, better known as the voice of G1 Grimlock:

Delicon: What, generally speaking, has the Botcon experience been like for you so far? Are there any aspects of fandom that surprise you?

Berger: It's more than meets the eye! You have to be here to experience it and feel it. The energy is global, maybe galactic, and accessible to all. They have set the bar so high that the biggest surprise of all is that they have exceeded all expectations! It rocks so hard!

Delicon: The autograph lines have been insane, what is most unusual thing you have autographed both at this convention and overall?

Berger: Although I autographed the inside of several shoes at this con, my most unusual signing ever was an @$$ cheek, which I have been told went straight to a tattooer.

Delicon: What aspects of TransFormers, particularly G1, do you feel influence modern shows, or their creators as something that affected them?

Berger: I think it had, in its time, an enormous effect on people who have now grown into not only a devoted fanbase, but also show creators, and creatives in general. So many people in so many creative circles credit their rabid devotion to Transformers growing up as part of their wonder years, and consequently part of them.I was introduced last week by someone who said, "This is the man who made me late for school and made me rush home after school." That feels so good I can't tell you.

Delicon: You worked with so many voice actors on Transformers and other shows. Name one or two that stand out and why?

Berger: I would say, personally, Scatman Cruthers made me anxious for the times that we were not recording, because he would bring a ukulele or tell stories, and he had such a magical quality about him as a person that I just wanted to sit and listen to whatever he had to say. I still worked with Frank Welker nearly every week on new episodes of "Garfield," but when "Transformers" was working I was the new kid and was awed by his, and everyone's, incredible talent, and Frank's in particular, his sense of fun and play, keeping the sessions always fresh.

Delicon: You've done mostly voice acting, but have a regular acting background as well. Do you have a preference of the two? Is there more job security in voice acting?

Berger: I don't believe there is job security for anyone who feels that they are guaranteed job security. Every opportunity stands alone and must be earned. I love the voiceover community, but I love the on-camera, onstage, and personal appearance opportunities I have been afforded as well. I'm not trying to bail on the question,but the truth is I love whatever I'm doing at the moment.

Delicon: You're most well-known in Transformers for your portrayal of Grimlock, but you've done a host of characters on many shows. Are there any characters you identify with on a personal level?

Berger: To some degree, all of them, which is how actors should approach their work. But strictly on the optimism level, I would have to say, Spirit from "GI Joe."

Delicon: Final question. Thank you very much for you time today, we greatly appreciate it. This is your opportunity to pitch any upcoming projects, I'm sure fans would love to know.

Berger: I am happily so busy at the moment that I need an air traffic controller! I am Captain Cutter in "Halo Wars", Kingpin in "Spiderman: Web of Shadows", Fred Dukes aka the Blob in "X-men Origins: Wolverine: The Game," two major characters in "Guild Wars 2," and I narrate "Shadow Force" for the History Channel. New "Garfield"s are in production and began airing in May on Cartoon Network UK, so hopefully other markets in the near future. Boy did you pick the right time to ask me that question!

---
And, ah, as a last note, I am planning on emailing Derrick J. Wyatt with a few TFA questions, so does anyone have any pressing things they'd like answered?

Armada Starscream interview


Another figure I've wanted for quite some time is Armada Starscream, so I asked another of my friends to give an interview for him.


Miraging:: How tall is he compared to Universe Ratchet?
Shadow: Off the top of my head I'd say Universe ratchet comes up to like... midchestish area? He's rather big.
Miraging: Oh, he is big.
Miraging: How's the alt-mode fit together?
Shadow: It's not all that difficult a transformation. (If I can brainlessly figure it out--mostly--it's easy. I'm hopeless at figuring out how to transform them 8) I have a little difficulty getting his legs to fold properly under his wings but uh, that could be because I'm probably doing it wrong.
Miraging: But he holds together nicely, no gaps or anything?
Shadow: Yeah.
Miraging: Okay.
Miraging: How's poseability in mech mode?
Shadow: Oops, he's missing a cannon, it seems. Anyway, he's easy to get standing solidly as long as you remember to fold out the stabalizer things on his feet (unlike G1 Star who you have to put in weird positions to get to stand upright at all), but he's very topheavy so that makes posing difficult sometimes if you aren't careful balancing him.
Miraging: Okay.
Miraging: Where is he ball-jointed?
Shadow: Hm~ hips and shoulders it seems
Miraging: Okay. No waist?
Shadow: His waist kind of... how do you put this. Locks into place underneath in robot mode--when transforming him you pop it free to give his legs room to bend around underneath him in his alt-mode.
Shadow: If that makes sense.
Miraging: Oh, I see.
Miraging: Okay, so any complaints about him or anything you really like?
Shadow: My only real complaint is trying to transform him or just handle him in general and hitting the button on his cockpit that makes shooting noises. I never really was one for noisy toys.
Shadow: Other than that I really like him.
Miraging: What was the price on him?
Shadow: Uh... I honestly don't know. He was a Christmas gift from my brother, who bought him a long time ago when HE was into collecting the toys.
defectionpendin Ohhh, I see.
Miraging: So I suppose I can't ask you about the condition of the paint when it was new XD
Miraging: Is he loose anywhere in mech mode, or does he hold together?
Shadow: well his shoulder cannons tend to pop off, it seems. And his wing, but that's supposed to do that and become his sword.
Miraging: Ahh, right. So he has the working wingblade?
Shadow: Yeah.
Miraging: Awesome.
Shadow: It just pops off and unfolds.
Miraging: Sweet. I love that feature for him.


Alas, she had to go off to bed, but that figure is on my "once you get a job, must buy" list along with ROTF Sideswipe, Soundwave and Knockout and Binaltech Mirage, so hopefully I'll have it soon enough and can do a video review of my own.