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Transformers: Age of Extinction Seibertron.com Review - SPOILERS

Date: Thursday, June 26th 2014 8:37am CDT
Categories: Movie Related News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): Paramount, First Gen

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Views: 87,663

Seibertron.com long-time member First Gen was able to catch a viewing of the highly anticipated (by many) Transformers: Age of Extinction movie, and took some time to write a thorough, lengthy review of it. However, much like on Crosshairs and Drift's alt-modes - there are spoilers throughout the entire piece, so stay away if you'd rather not read them! Carry on if you will.

*SPOILERS BELOW THIS LINE*

First Gen wrote:Hey Seibertronians, First Gen here. This evening I had the honor to attend and advance VIP screening of, and now will provide you with a full out, detailed review of the highly anticipated fourth installment to the Transformers movieverse, Age of Extinction!

Directed by return Director Michael Bay, with a script by Ehren Kruger, AOE brings all the known features you can expect of a M. Bay film to the screen, while giving our beloved Robots in Disguise a little more face time than in past installments. But let me make this point clear, this IS a Michael Bay film, and yes, this will tick off some of you fans out there.

SPOILER ALERT!!!! Do not read on if you do not wish to have the film spoiled prior to viewing it.

The film opens with a shot of prehistoric Earth, and what appears to be a Cybertronian fleet approaching its atomosphere. It is a time when dinosaurs ruled the land, and things are about to change. We see non Cybertronian life forms shooting, what appear to be bombs onto the lush green world, then a wall of fire exterminates all life that enters its path.

Flash forward a couple epochs later, to what we can only assume is present day in the Arctic. Dr. Darcy Tirrel, played by Sophia Myles, is walking towards what appears to be a dinosaur skeleton, but only its made of metal. The foreman of the site, played by Glenn Keogh, states that they've made the discovery of a lifetime.

Enter Cade Yeager, played by Mark Wahlberg, a former research and development specialist in everything robotic from his own research facility, which has been reduced to a scrap metal salvager and old electronic repair man. He's out with his partner/ employee Lucas, played by TJ Miller, trying to salvage old equipment from a rundown movie theater when he happens upon an old cab over engine truck, just there, in the middle of a theater, which apparently the owner wasn't aware of when Cade asked how much he wanted for it.

While Cade barters with the theatre owner we get our first look at Chicago today. Signs stating to "Remember Chicago" can be found everywhere, but now the great city is the home to RIS, a research facility thats doing more than just research, and the Cemetary Wind Team, a group of humans who are trained to hunt down and destroy Transformers. The CWT was on the hunt for their next victim when they picked up a reading on a possible location. Using little surveillance copters they call Minicons, they locate their suspect and prompltly blow him out of his hiding space. The transformer in question is Ratchet. Following Optimus Primes orders, Ratchet went into hiding as the Hunt for the Decepticons became the hunt for all Transformers. With the help of a Decepticon named Lockdown, the humans put Ratchet down as Lockdown quizes him on the location of Optimus Prime. Ratchet refuses and pays with his spark. Lockdown does not appear to be taking sides with Decepticon or Autobot, having his own cryptic agenda that we never get a straight answer to.

The film then introduces Cade's daugther Tessa in the only way Michael Bay knows how to portray women. We then discover that the truck Cade purchased was actually a transformer. Cade and Tessa argue over what to do about that while Lucas suggests they turn it in for a reward to help with the mounting bills and eviction notice that Cade has acquired. Before they can come to an agreement, the CWT is on them looking for Optimus Prime. Prime is holed up in Cade's barn, but when he hears that the CWT is going to kill Tessa to learn his whereabouts, he busts out and dispatches of the team holding them hostage and tells them to run. In the distance, what appears to be a driverless Rally car pops up and does some pretty skillful driving manuveurs to simeultaneously dispatch of the CWT thats in pursuit of the group and pick them up. No, its not an Autobot, its Shane, Tessa's non existant boyfriend played by Jack Reynor. A super Bay car chase ensues as suped up muscle cars and Lockdown in his vehicle mode give chase. Prime fights off Lockdown and saves the group, but not before Lockdown turns Lucas into a statue of ash.

Introduce the rest of the Autobots. All four of them. Yes, four. Hound, Crosshairs, who comes off as a real jerk and not Autobotish at all, Drift, the samurai Bugatti, and of course fan fave Bumblebee. These four are a ragtag group that don't particularly like each other. Drift almost kills Bumblebee for assuming leadership while Prime was MIA. Prime puts an end to the foolishness and gathers up the bots saying they've got one more thing to do then they're done with the human race. This takes us to KSI and we meet Joshua Joyce, played by Stanley Tucci. Joyce is in kahoots with CWT team leader and former CIA operative Harold Attinger (Kelsey Grammar) and they want to harvest the material Transformers are made of, calling is Transformia. They are melting down the carcasses of the bots they've killed, which include Leadfoot, Ratchet and Megatron. Using the DNA code and data that the still kicking Brains can decipher from the dead bots, they're making their own Transfomers. And if you've put two and two together already, then you figured out that Galvatron is a man made transformer. Galvatron was supposed to be modeled after Optimus Prime, but for some reason, a reason the technicians don't understand, he still resemble Megatron.

The other TFs they created with this Transformia were meant to mimic the real thing, like the Stinger that was said to be an upgrade to Bumblebee. Bumblebee would use that fact later on in the movie to make a humorous crack on not going for knock offs. They show how the man made transfomers transform, which reminds me of the T1000 from Terminator 2. Its not genuine transformation, which really put a damper on the coolness of the Cons. And unlike real Transformers, these human versions have no spark. Prime and the Bots infiltrate KSI to find out whats going on there, then end up just leaving when Joyce tells them to stop and wake up essentially. Attinger tells Joyce to dispatch his Transformers to dispose of Prime. We get our first shot of Galvatron and Stinger in action. Another Bay chase ensues, Galvatron does not completely obey the remote control commands of the humans and actually speaks to Prime while they fight. Enter Lockdown, who blasts Prime, cause Lockdown is pretty bad ass in this movie, moreso than Galvatron or any other threat, and he again talks to Prime in the cryptic talk of the Creators and hauls him off to add to his "collection" of legends, while taking Tessa as well. Cade and Shane and the bots manage to get on Lockdowns ship, save Tessa and Prime by detaching a piece of the ship before Lockdown goes into hyperdrive. A few star trekkish references were made about space.

Another huge battle ensues claiming alot of Chicago once again. Robot dogs at the call of Lockdown are seen which seem like the Terrorcons. We then learn that Megatron was actually downloading his own essence into Galvatron and letting the humans think they controlled him and the other decepticons they were creating. We then learn about the Seed. The Seed is actually a massive bomb that destroys all the life in its path and turns it into Transformia. Joyce bartered with Lockdown for it in exchange for Optimus Prime. Destruction is laid to Chicago again and with this Joyce relocates RIS to Hong Kong. When Joyce gets there, he receives a call from Cade, pleading with him not to release the Seed as it will bring the end of humankind. Joyce has a change of heart and becomes a fugitive from Attinger, running from the CWT.

Then Galvatron just decides to become self aware and do some blue magic glow thing to "awaken" the rest of the Decepticons. There's 50 of them. Being so outnumbered, Prime goes to the Legends room in the ship that was detached from Lockdowns, and we finally get to see the Dinobots. None of them have names, they were only referred to as The Legends, and they weren't in the ice in the Arctic, or even on Earth. Prime beats Grimlock into submission telling him to either for for him or die. Then Prime rides Grimlock like a horse for the next ten minutes of screen time the Dinobots get. Cade does ALOT of fighting in this movie, using a Cybertronian weapon he figured out how to use by yelling at it. Prime is once again bested by Lockdown, and only with the help of Bumblebee, Cade, Tessa and Shane is he able to finally beat Lockdown. Galvatron says something about being reborn then runs away.

The film ends with Prime releasing the Dinobots to freedom in Hong Kong then doing his normal outro, sending a message to his Creators, telling them to leave Earth alone and that he was coming for them.

Overall the film has some fun moments and entertainment value, but clocking in at over two and half hours, this movie had so much going on with so many subplots and ridiculous continuous set up for future films, it really took away from what it could have been. The bots look great, but some of the CG looks really NOT real. The movie did an Amazing Spiderman 2 and just had too many villians. Despite screen time, Bumblebee seemed to only be there to appease the fans and Primes weak, desolute attitude is not becoming of a Prime. Throughout all that, the film tried to make the same humorous cracks and situational comedy takes that didn't go over as well as with the first films. Cade and Tessa continuously bicker about family issues and who takes care of who.

It really looks as if though they were trying to set up the next two films instead of leading into the next film. This is definitely a film you'll have to see more than once just to catch everything thats going on.

Overall, I rate AOE 2 1/2 stars out of four. Go into this with and open mind and no expectations.

A huge thank you to Jose Cruz and http://www.OurTiempo.com for allowing me to view and review the film. You can follow them at http://www.twitter.com/OurTiempo and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/OurTiempo for your chance to score free tickets to advance screenings.

That's all I've got for you Seibertronians. Keep your optics locked to Seibertron.com for all the latest info in the Transformers universe.

IDW Transformers: Punishment Motion Comic Review

Date: Wednesday, June 25th 2014 2:31pm CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Madefire, Mkall, ScoutBumblebee

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Views: 50,617

Mere hours after the official announcement of the IDW Publishing Transformers: Punishment motion comic on Madefire, here at Seibertron.com we are able to present you with the third comics review of the week, courtesy of the collaboration between Mkall (words) and ScoutBumblebee (images) - check it out below!

I’d like to start this review off by saying that I typically do not get the premise behind motion comics. To me, they often feel like someone thought of a good cartoon but didn’t have the resources to do it properly. Most of them that I’ve seen aren’t much better than comic art manipulated with Adobe Flash Studio. I’m sure that there are better examples out there, but I have not exposed myself to them.

IDW’s foray into this medium with Transformers: Punishment, while not dissuading me completely of my notions of motion comics, shows me that there is a way to do it better. It’s far from perfect, but I’ll touch on that later.

Transformers: Punishment is written by John Barber and drawn by Livio Ramondelli. Two powerhouses in their respective fields come together to make this book look as nice as it reads. Optimus Prime returns to Cybertron because for whatever reason, Galvatron on Earth just doesn’t seem like that big a deal to him? He arrives and immediately decides his original reason to visit isn’t as important as some murdered d-list Decepticons. He sets out to find the killer in a style that feels very familiar to MTMTE’s Shadowplay series; where the hero (Optimus, in case it wasn’t clear) spends several issues chasing a criminal, and lots of collateral damage happens en route.

The feel of this story captures very succinctly the atmosphere that IDW’S Robots In Disguise series has been trying to capture; that everyone is trying to come to terms with what they did during The War. There is a lot of Prime narration and introspective that puts a lot of this in context as we begin to see that the Autobots may not have been as heroic as 30 years of propaganda have lead us to believe.

This story is led by Optimus as he investigates. This disappoints me as I was really looking forward to seeing more of Starscream, who in this story is actually a heroic character. There was no sneer to the voice that I imagined in my head as I read his lines. He is generally honest in his desire to see justice done.

There are other characters too. Slug and the Dinobots serve as the needed muscle and occasional foil for Optimus. Windblade is always in the background to counter Prime’s ‘millions of years of fighting has changed us’ mantras, which seem to occur once every issue. Sandstorm is the most curious addition to the story. Whereas the Dinobots are all too willing to fight and kill, Sandstorm does so because it’s all he ever knew. Prime confronts him and attempts to get him to change and move past what he did. Will he do so? I suppose that’s what was meant at the BotCon panel when it was stated that these events will reverberate in the main comic lines.

The Decepticon presence in this book is minimal (unless you include cadavers). The Firecons appear more to stir the pot than anything else. I would’ve enjoyed seeing more cons as protagonists. Starscream is for all intents and purposes a good guy and Barricade only speaks when there’s exposition to deliver. This is certainly an all-Autobot tale. The overall story arc is nothing unique. It’s been told before in other stories wherever war and violence have affected cultures. The killer(s) didn’t surprise me, but they may surprise you if you are new to the IDW comics.

Overall I liked the story, despite some distractions both artistic and technical. The writing is good, and the more open nature of this medium allowed the artwork to move the text along and a good speed. I wish this was a 6th issue to allow for more interaction between Optimus, Starscream, and Windblade. This was a fantastic opportunity for old vs new Autobot interaction but it was always cut short because there were more bodies to find.
The artwork in this was done knowing it was for a motion comic, and it shows. Sparks fly, laserbeams cut the air, fires burn with intensity and the lighting is dynamic. My main issue is that because it’s a motion comic, there is motion for the sake of it. Sometimes the impact of comic art is to show movement in a static frame. That’s because it relies on the reader’s imagination to fill in the details. Such impact is lost to me when there’s a tiny bit of motion and the impact isn’t as big as your mind is telling you it should be. The soundtrack gets disconcerting after a short time, especially when shifting between scenes there is no fade in/out. I like the inclusion of the sound effects, such as the transforming sound and the guns blasting away, but it’s lost in the often overpowering driving beat of the music.

I got this because it was free, and I would suggest the same to anyone who enjoys these comics. Personally though, I would’ve paid to get it in paper.

IDW Transformers: More than Meets the Eye #30 Review

Date: Wednesday, June 25th 2014 4:04am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Va'al

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Views: 37,149

O Captain! My Captain!
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis
EVACUATION! Is it possible for a starship to object to its captain? That’s what the AUTOBOTS are asking MEGATRON as the Lost Light becomes the most dangerous place in the universe!

Swerve, trusting the captain

Story

Everything is going amiss. Or missing. Or disappearing. On the Lost Light, that is, as we've seen so far since issue #28. And there's that coffin issue, a possible ghost, scheming and plotting and antipathies and Swerve, serving as a recap device on the first page. But that's not all going on, of course - and some things are being found, or found out.

Dun dun duuuuunn

At the same time, six months previously, the Megatron trial is coming to an end, though not necessarily as we saw it going in the first place, as some rogue 'loyal' Decepticons attempt to 'rescue' the defendant in the middle of the Luna 2 arena. And the beginning of some trialling (heh) changes in the legal process.

Clean up the bodies

Now, the end of the trial left me with mixed feelings: on the one hand, James Roberts' Megatron gains some truly great character work, but on the other, it felt, as I have mentioned before for other arcs, as if things were hurried on the lead into the rest of the plots and narratives (though not as much as the Overlord ending). On the third hand, however, so many characters are explored, from Rodimus to First Aid, to Getaway, Tailgate and even Riptide and Nautica, with a bit more of Optimus and Prowl, too. And it counterbalances it all.

There are feels emotions

Overall, then, while the 'conclusion' of the trial, on its surface, left me wondering, everything else around it makes the entire issue so developed and multifaceted that I can look over that small step I was hoping for in Megatron's story (see previous reviews for more on this, too).

Art

I will not gush on Alex Milne's artwork, but there is a lot to say about how the line- and panel-work in the issue really fits the story being told, with some excellent white-out frames, several massive spreads and splashes, and brilliant facial expressions with some manga-esque influences throughout the entire, beautiful book. And it all graces both the trial and the Lost Light scenes, equally and consistently.

Picture, words, worth

And the colours. The colours. We get to see some astonishing space-scapes from Joana Lafuente, and some fantastic lighting complementing the tone and layout of the artwork and panels, with some truly powerful dark/light contrasts for emotional moments. In addition, Tom B. Long's lettering is used to enhance only the moments that really need it, but really shines in the arena fight and scattered through the final act.

...

There is a ridiculous number of covers, and yes, they're all excellent. From the Milne/Lafuente main one to Nick Roche and Josh Burcham's subscription, to the thumbnailed Guido Guidi and John-Paul Bove magnificent Megatron (fitting, really) and the convention exclusive My Little Pony crossover by Tony Fleecs. Whew.

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

I have an issue with Roberts' endings, clearly, as I didn't think this packed the punch it could've - regarding Megatron's sentence and closing remarks, at least. But everything else really, really makes up for it, from a twist early on, to the characterisation of the big bad bot, to the development of the main plotline and the creation of more bonds, some of which potentially destructive for established others.

I.. um.. I.. well

And it all looks absolutely superb, from lines to panels to colours to letters to expressions to space - oh the space - and it has twists, plots, endings, beginnings, the RodPod, covers, Swerve's introdump/recap and 'bomps'. Not only that: it looks like, as of the next issue, we will return to early MTMTE, too - space horror. Grab the popcorn and/or your leg.

- out of

IDW Transformers: Windblade #3 Review

Date: Wednesday, June 25th 2014 2:37am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Va'al

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Views: 40,272

Twisted Plot
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis
THE FATE OF CYBERTRON! WINDBLADE learns more about the new face of CYBERTRON—and lesson number one is: never underestimate STARSCREAM! She’s trapped in a no-win situation—but what is the scheming DECEPTICON really after, and how far will he go to keep WINDBLADE out of his way?

Hum, far..?

Story

We left Cybertron last month as Windblade, Chromia, the Maccadam's crew - the jolly jumble of Blurr, Snarl, Waspinator, Tankor and Tankor - and reporters Longtooth and Circuit entered the lower levels of Metroplex, as the Terrorcons prepared to pounce on the cast, and the battle was on the very brink of commencing.

On the edge, even

The fight sequence that ensues, at the opening of the issue, is gloriously long with good narration and exposition (and world building, too) at just the right pacing from Mairghread Scott to not be either boring nor too much of a punch fest. And also serves its function as the first of many minor twists in the story of the mini-series so far, before some major changes towards the end. None of which I'll show.

Have some air-fighting

Not only does the pacing work, with the captions recapping the story so far from Windblade's view, the dialogue aiding the progression of the story and some great exchanges in the aftermath of the fight, there's space for a little humour (without too much tonal discordance), and some very very dark moments during and after.

Comedy gold

Starscream has some very nice traits in the issue, Rattrap is a little stinker, Windblade shines through her fighting skills, as does Chromia, the story goes in multiple directions at once, then returns to itself as everything changes - and we even get a new type of character introduced. Not a character, a type.

Art

The artwork, of course, makes my appreciation of the issue rise even further, with Sarah Stone's excellent panel work, returning to Longtooth's head camera (as in, his head is a camera) device and commentary on the technique. Combined with some brilliant facial expressions, the result is an issue of dynamic, clear fight sequences and truly terrifying moments later on.

'Is this thing on?'

Moments which are expertly enhanced by Stone's use of colour and shading, and some great contrasts in how the light, be it fire, glow or else, reflects on and refracts off different Cybertronian surfaces and bodies. Add in some subtle touches in sound effects and lettering by Chris Mowry, and we get a truly thrilling addition to the mini-series.

See? Stinker. And creep.

Additionally, not to forget, the covers. Stone's amazing 'crying' Windblade has made the rounds many times now, but Alex Milne and Joana Lafuente (thumbnail) create an impressive valiant rendition of the character, too. And continuing the 30th Anniversary celebratory series, Guido Guidi and John-Paul Bove recreate a victorious Stascream over Megatron for the retail incentive!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

Well. I mean, well. Scott had me convinced that the story would be doing certain things, and then took it wildly away, only to drag it back and split it again and end it on a note that appeared from nowhere - but could still make sense. In the next issue. Because of course there's a cliffhanger that actually leaves you wanting more.

What? WHY WHAT?!

So the narration works, the characters really work with and against each other, so many questions, points, issues, revelations are addressed and made to hang. There. Just hang. And then you get so much in terms of body language and expressions and behaviour in Stone's artwork and colours, a mixture of glee and repulsion, and - I just want more. Please?

(Though again, next issue is the last for now, at least until 2015. But still.)

- out of

IDW Transformers vs. G.I. Joe #0 (FCBD) Review

Date: Wednesday, June 18th 2014 6:46am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Tigertrack, Va'al

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Views: 36,597

This is a quiet week for Transformers comics, in terms of new IDW Publishing output. Here at Seibertron.com, however, we wanted to make sure to give you the full sequential art coverage, and, before issue 1 actually hits stores next month, we went back to review the Free Comic Book Day Issue #0 of the new Transformers vs G.I. Joe ongoing!

Transformers News: IDW Transformers vs. G.I. Joe #0 Review

That one

“Some missions are so secret, so sensitive, so serious that as far as America’s concerned--they never occurred. The agents sent on these classified missions are code-named Seibertron Comics Staff.”

---INITIATE REVIEW(ish) THING

As the saying goes, ‘these are not your father’s ________________’ -fill in the blank with whatever pop culture item, sports team, or ‘other’ that might be relevant at the time’ In this case, it’s ‘GI JOE VS. TRANSFORMERS’.

Tigertrack - TF VS. G.I. JOE or JOES VS TF (whichever is your slant) have had several incarnations over the years that have seen print, and even a few more that have not.

Va'al - (It's technically Transformers vs G.I. Joe..)

TT - Fine fine.

While not really moving either of the franchise’s further ahead in their respective universes these crossovers have proven to be fun elseworld stories, generally ‘what if’ type situations, that have left both franchise followers feeling less than satisfied asking several questions, including: why do they continue to do this?

The newest comic crossover between these two siblings may perhaps come closest to creating the feeling I had when I would play with and display my GI JOE and Transformers toys together when I was a child, and represents perhaps a very real portrayal of what I might have been thinking the story might have been like. I’m not quite sure if that is meant to be a compliment or not.

Not pictured: Tigertrack

V - See, I think that was my problem with this comic: I have never really been any part of anything that had something to do with G.I. Joe, despite the two franchises being so close through the years. It made it harder for me to assess what Tom Scioli and John Barber were trying to do plot, story and context-wise.

STORY

The FREE COMIC BOOK DAY ‘prequel’ sets up the future ongoing. One part Transformers to three parts GI JOE, this comic is more of a Joe-centric story than a TF story. The beginning of the book introduces Bumblebee and Starscream, and how they seemingly get themselves sprinkled into the middle of the final results of another COBRA threat that GI JOE is working bravely to thwart. But don’t let that fool you. The COBRA and GI JOE action is the main part, and Starscream and Bumblebee are only minor pieces of the pages they are in, seemingly unimportant to the actual threat of the creeper bombs that COBRA is about to unleash.

V - And here I felt that it was more of an introduction to G.I. Joe for readers like me, who have very little clue about the franchise. So while I'd agree it's more G.I. Joe in content, I'd say it's trying to appeal to regular Transformers readers - so it needs to say very little about our favourite transforming robots. The issue introduces many GI JOE and COBRA characters, using almost infodump-y tiny file cards as a means to share names and specialties. And jokes. And plot points. So many cards.

Seriously

TT - I like your point about it being an introduction to joe for TF fans, I often felt it was the transformers that drove (hah!) the stories and GI joe was there to get a boost or feed off TF popularity.

The story itself seems to take place before many of the characters are quite who we knew/know them to be yet. Duke is a ‘rookie’ who is constantly hitting on Scarlett ala Ripcord from THE RISE OF COBRA. Scarlett is possessed with taking down the COBRA COMMANDER. Snake Eyes is not yet mute or mutilated, he’s actually a very vocal, veteran leader. Other Joes from different parts of joe history show up like Doc, Roadblock, Wild Bill, Ace, and Bazooka.

ART

V - Now, the artwork. Tom Scioli is doing everything, from layouts to pencils to inks to colours, and is explicitly referencing a Kirby-esque Silver Age (debated term, but let's use it anyway) style of art. The facial expressions, the dots, the shadowing, the dots, the backgrounds - all the elements are there, undoubtedly.

The Dots

Does it always convince? No, not really. But I enjoyed it nonetheless, in a strange way of recognising its amibition and completely bonkers scope. The execution will divide a lot of opinions (and indeed already has) but there is no doubt in claiming that Scioli knows Kirby's work, and is a good sequential storyteller. Whether the style is what the two fandoms wanted is an entirely different conversation.

I believe my position of not really being that tied to either franchise in its early incarnations allows me to see this with a fresher perspective, and doesn't hit the 'childhood memories' of either. In fact, it captures the silliness of both series looking back on them now, in a fashion!

THOUGHTS

TT - The issue has some slapstick banter, hard core fighting, and a somewhat sweet payoff full page shot. Even more so there is the final page payoff, in which --

V - That thing happens, with those characters saying those things to each other.

Is it a must? Not sure. Is it fun? For me, it was: I found it amusing, ambitiously out there, with some interesting plotting and planning, some intriguing if not always convincing artwork (but impressive, as it's all Scioli's work, from start to finish). It's still free around the internet somewhere, so I'd give it a look if you can!

Have some Lichtenstein, too

TT - I suppose this series will replicate that previous formula of the Joes being the established Earthians to contact/conflict with the Transformer aliens and cobra looks to use the bots for their benefit somehow teaming with the cons and then double-crossing them. I'm not expecting much surprise-wise.

I still very much dislike the art. I think I know what is being attempted, I just find it pretty disappointing for the most part so far. The SDCC covers are very bothersome. But I will still work to support this and enjoy it, so maybe someday we can get the ultimate crossover.

We'll see what the actual first issue brings - but until then, GOOOO FORMERS!

----END REVIEW(ish) THING

The Official Seibertron.com Guide to BotCon 2014

Date: Thursday, June 12th 2014 11:56am CDT
Categories: Site News, Event News, Site Articles, Collector's Club News
Posted by: ScottyP | Credit(s): ScottyP

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With a week to go, I figured it'd be time to drop some knowledge for any first timers to the convention. Botcon is a great time but there are some things you can do to make the whole thing a lot smoother. Without further ado, I hereby present...

Scotty P's Botcon Pro-Tips

Or, what I've learned at Botcon

Transformers News: Re: BotCon 2014 (Pasadena, CA) Discussion: Toys and Events

This year will be my 6th Botcon and 4th consecutive one, as well as my 3rd in Pasadena. While I haven't been to as many shows as some folks, I feel like I've been to enough and learned enough to help out others with some knowledge. So here we go.

Tip 1 - The Hotel

Tip 1: Stay at one of the official hotels and book it early.

I'm not a travel guru - no extra knowledge here on how to get a cheaper flight or anything like that, you're on your own there. Quite frankly, paying the extra coin for the "official" convention hotel (or first alternate, depending on the city) is well worth it. Room parties, sales, and general proximity to the actual events will greatly enhance your convention experience. So, while it's tempting to look around town for a budget motel, I don't recommend that.

For this year's show, the Sheraton is very, very booked. The Hilton is not full but the rate may not still be available - but don't be afraid to call them and see if they can work you in to the block for at least some of the nights. I unwisely waited too long to book this year and had to do that. This is why Tip 1 says to book early - you'll end up paying a regular rate for some nights if you don't, and that can be catastrophic to your trip budget.

Tip 2 - Food

Tip 2: Find a local store to grab some quick meals that you can keep in your room.

Gotta eat, right? Unfortunately, this can be one of the more challenging things at the show to do without breaking the bank. Some years, like 2012 in Dallas, there were extremely limited options for restaurants even near the convention hotel. I can already tell you, you won't give a damn about most of your meals, you're just gonna want to grab some calories and move on. The easiest way to do this is to find a local store.

This can be a challenge. Pasadena's Gelson's, which was right across the street from the convention center, has apparently closed down. In Dallas, there was nothing remotely close. In San Diego, one had to take a trolley to find a store. Map things out beforehand and have a plan, and set aside some time to go buy some cheap stuff you can scarf down at the ready for breakfast and lunch. Non-perishable is best, but sometimes hotels will have mini-fridges that you can either use for free or pay a small fee per day for, you just have to ask. Just remember to be polite even if this option isn't available.

Trust me on this one, taking a couple hours on day one to get some cheap eats from a store will help your travel budget immensely, and take some of the stress out of having to "find" food while at the show. And yes, this can also make any alcohol-related expenditures a bit better as well. A $15 case of beer to share with friends will cost you as much as 2 pints at many hotel bars.

As a bonus tip for Pasadena, run across the street to Paseo Colorado and grab some Rubio's fish tacos if you want a tasty meal in a hurry that isn't stupid expensive. I know some California natives will groan at that, but this Carolina Boy has to go to a Rubio's at least once every time in CA. Deal with it

Tip 3 - Lines

Can you find me in this picture?

Tip 3: Do a tour or class and show up Wednesday.

How is that a line tip? Pretty simple, actually. If you register for a class or tour, you can pick up your box set and any other attendee stuff (comic, freebie, etc.) on Wednesday night - even if that class or tour is on Thursday! I've done this the past three years and it's made the entire experience better for several reasons. For one, the classes/tours/trips to theme parks are a lot of fun, and you get to hang out and meet other fans in a cool setting. Also, getting in on the Wednesday pick up means you can go straight to the club store line on Thursday, saving you literally hours. This of course ignores the Golden Ticket option, which I think is only practical for some folks and not a majority of con goers.

Of course, if you can't exercise this option (for instance, way too late this year to do so), make sure to bring something to do in line. That something can indeed be yourself - reach out and talk to the other folks in line with you! If you're not all that social though, pack a book, game system, something. These can get long, especially in Pasadena. [note: lines have been getting more efficient through the years, but bad timing on your part can make for a long wait.]

Tip 4 - Cash

Tip 4: Bring plenty of cash for the Dealer room.

Make it rain! Well, if the dealer doesn't mind. I don't think they'll want you to get too creepy about it though.

Seriously though, cash is king. Most dealers cannot take your card. ATMs will run out. I'm not advising you to travel with $4,000 cash in your pocket, that's dumb. What I am advising you to do is to have a plan on how to get some cash out before you hit the dealer floor. If you use a big bank, it's pretty easy to find a branch near the convention center to make a withdrawl.

Cash also helps with the club store - there are usually two lines, one for cash and one for cards, and the cash one typically moves faster. There have been exceptions to this some years, so don't hold me to that one too hard.

Just remember to be careful when traveling with cash, especially large amounts. Redeposit anything you don't use as soon as possible. Pasadena is very safe, so I don't imagine you'll get mugged and robbed or anything, but still be careful.

Tip 5 - Bags

Tip 5: If you plan on making purchases, bring bags.

I can't stress this one enough. I've even forgotten to do this as recently as a year ago. That wasn't smart! Most dealers will not have bags for you to carry your things. A few might, but don't count on that. Just pack a few extra leftover grocery bags in your luggage and you'll be way happy you did. Most plastic bags you can even bunch up and throw in your cargo short pockets (or purse, for the ladies) for easy access (fade, haters, cargo shorts are super useful).

If you bring too many bags, they can be useful for tip 8 below - use them as packing material! And of course, please recycle.

Tip 6 - Haggle (politely)

Tip 6: Haggle politely if you think a price is too high.

My apologies to dealers for this tip, as some may read into incorrectly. I urge readers of this post to carefully read this one, as over-haggling will make you "that guy".

First, when should you not haggle? If you walk up to an item you want, and you like the price, pay for it and move on. Pretty simple, right? Also, if the dealer is an established store (BBTS, TF Source, etc.), you probably aren't going to get any discounts, so I wouldn't bother there.

Now that that's out of the way, here's when you should haggle - when there's something you want that you feel is just priced way too high. Sometimes an item is just a hair too much to stomach. Don't be afraid to make a dealer an offer. However, and this part is important, if they aren't willing to negotiate or say no to your offer, then be polite, thank them, and move on. Some dealers didn't mark prices just to reduce them anyway, and that's ok. Also remember to be reasonable. Offering $50 for something marked $120 has a 0% chance of success.

Tip 7 - Panels

Tip 7: Go to some panels, and not just the ones you know you'll like.

So, I'm going to safely assume that almost everyone will go to the Hasbro panel, and most folks at Botcon will go to the TFCC panel. My only tip for those is to go to the panel beforehand so you can have a decent seat for the "main event".

My other tip for panels is to pick out at least one that sounds "meh" to you at first glance and go check it out. Broaden your horizons! Learn fun things! Or, you know, end up not liking it at all and leaving halfway through. At least you tried.

Tip 8 - Ship Your Stuff

Tip 8: Ship any large items purchased back to your house for easy packing.

You know what's way cheaper than an overweight checked bag or replacing a broken toy because your luggage was too full and the TSA threw it around like a sack of potatoes? Shipping out your purchases, at least the big ones, while you're at the show. There is a Post Office near the convention center in Pasadena, and for other years, I recommend tracking down a close by US Post Office when possible. Or even just a regular UPS store or something.

The other important part of this tip - DO NOT use the shipping services on the convention floor! The rates are a complete rip off. As in, "$100 to ship just your box set home domestically" level of rip off. Just avoid it. Oh yeah, and remember, you need to do this before the PO closes on Saturday, so check hours carefully!

Final suggestion on this tip - if you need boxes, hit up the club store. They've got a ton of them and are happy to give you one or two.

Tip 9 - You're Here For Fun

Sunburn Level > 9,000. Craps given level = 0.

Tip 9: Conventions can get busy and tiring, but remember, you're here for fun.

Man, sometimes, on that Sunday morning, you're all hungover and exhausted and your dopamine levels are spent and then you have to go be social and stuff and, well, remember at that point, that this is supposed to be a fun experience. Don't let stuff bog you down. Do what you can to keep feeling good. Drink lots of water, take a shower, change your clothes, get a good night's sleep, and make new friends. Botcon can be a really good time, but it's also only ~4 days of your year - make the most of it!

Final Tip

So with all that said, here's my final tip - post yours as well! There's a ton of collective knowledge and I could've droned on even longer, but I'm anxious to learn from others on this too. I'll see you next week in Pasadena!

(Many images ganked from The official Botcon Website. Please don't kill me for hotlinking. Thanks!)

IDW Transformers: Robots in Disguise #30 Review

Date: Wednesday, June 11th 2014 7:47am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Va'al

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Views: 39,063

Me, Galvatron (Warrior) King
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis
GALVATRON THE BARBARIAN! From Cybertron’s ancient past came the warrior-king, GALVATRON. Once, he united CYBERTRON and ushered in a Golden Age. Now, he wants to do the same to Earth… but OPTIMUS PRIME has a problem with that plan.

Who indeed?

Story

So we're still/back on Earth, as the Autobots and Decepticons seem to have switched places in the mind of humanity - or the humanity controlled by Marissa Faireborn and her EDC organisation, at least. Who still really want to keep the robots under wraps for as long as they can, and presumably the fact that they are now siding with the 'bad guys', too.

Decepticons being deceptive? Surely not

Flashback! In the distant past of Cybertron, a warrior did warrior things, killing people, slicing people, being snarky and other such barbaric nonsense. But a 'new' player comes into the arena, all that way back, and it really looks like it will have severe repercussions on the entire game, all the way up to the present.

Telling it like it is

In the second flashback, we get more about Arcee and her decision to join the Earth Autobot mission, but also her feelings about the three new female Camiens showing up - and I have to say, Barber really made it work, in the same subdued way we saw in Windblade and MTMTE. But then, Barber made Arcee work all through RID, including her excellent dry comments on the situation.

..and on Prowl

Overall, Barber delivers a significantly slower issue, with a lot of explaining and setting up: Soundwave and Galvatron setting up their 'plan', Marissa Faireborne setting up Earth's current state, Jetfire setting up the Constructicons, and them setting up Prowl's backstory, in a way - but the dialogue and chemistry with the latter two/seven is brilliant, as is Jetfire in fact, and Soundwave really shines.

Art

Three artists, Casey Coller, Brendan Cahill and main lineworker Andrew Griffith, return to their flashback and main narrative duties. Cahill actually redraws some of what we saw in previous issues, but from different angles, and has a great smirking Prowl; Coller takes us to Galvatron's past, and shows some guts and gore, with excellent facial expressions accompanying them. Both are coloured by the brilliant Joana Lafuente, who really makes the two look different, but still linked enough for some really nice transitions.

o hai Arcee

Griffith's robots are amazing, with Soundwave, Galvatron and Prowl/Devastator taking main stage, but the humans have some really good touches too, and some amazing scale perspectives with panelwork that are jawdropping. Josh Perez' colours really help in setting the tone for the fights and aftermaths, with darker tones glinting with scheming light.

Sound and scale!

Tom B. Long clearly had a lot of fun with lettering too, seeing the amount of sound-effects and personal voice/fonts throughout the issue. And the covers, all four of them, are great additions, with Coller and Lafuente on B, Griffith and Tramontano on A, and Guido Guidi on two versions of the iconic Megatron-Optimus fight, one sketch, one with John-Paul Bove's colours (see thumbnail)!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

I am conflicted about this issue, for a handful of reasons. I loved Prowl's continuous scheming, Galvatron's over-the-top zealotry and warrior nature, Soundwave's true colours. But it felt like a slow issue, which relied on those three points - and the reason everyone is on Earth - to move along in a big fight sequence that, don't get me wrong, looks great. But still felt a bit like stalling.

Barberrrrr

Prowl's plans keep unravelling, but something is definitely going on with him. The green buddies are as amusing as ever, and there's something more there too. Galvatron is taking a leaf out of Prowl's book, and starts flipping *everything* in his rage, Faireborn and the EDC have a much better take on 'disguise' than usual, too. But I really want the story to leap forward now - show us moar, Barber!

½ out of

IDW Transformers: Robots in Disguise #29 Review

Date: Wednesday, May 28th 2014 4:32am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Va'al

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Views: 55,590

Prowl: Superior
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis
DETONATION BOULEVARD! Who is MARISSA FAIREBORN—and why does she want OPTIMUS PRIME dead?! And more importantly… how did she start working with on of the AUTOBOTS deadliest enemies…? Dangerous allegiances form, thanks to the terrifying shape the CYBERTRONIANS have twisted planet Earth into!

They did sort of screw up last time..

Story

Where did we leave off last month? Optimus Prime and some Autobots arrive on Eart(h) in search of Alpha Trion, seek help from Thundercracker (who lives in a hangar and writes fanfiction screenplays and has a dog called Buster. They find out he's already been contacted and told about Megatron by the Decepticons, now led by Galvatron and Soundwave. And the humans are in it too. Full time.

Josh Boyfriend, in the metal

With this, John Barber goes a little deeper into how the Earth/Decepticon alliance came to be, showing short scenes from the aftermath of All Hail Megatron, and the first re-encounter with a now 'military' Faireborn and the new Decepticon faction - and Soundwave's highly diplomatic and cunning statements, somehow keeping Galvatron at bay long enough.

Harmony, sure

Other main players in the issue are Jetfire and EV-A D.O.C. dealing with the ship, as they are still evading Earth's defenses and attempting to repair the damage so far, the fun, green bunch of the Constructicons, also on the ship, and everyone's favourite tableflipper, schemeplotter, mindcontrollee and reluctant greenbot himself - Prowl.

That guy

Overall, Barber delivers a significantly slower issue, with a lot of explaining and setting up: Soundwave and Galvatron setting up their 'plan', Marissa Faireborne setting up Earth's current state, Jetfire setting up the Constructicons, and them setting up Prowl's backstory, in a way - but the dialogue and chemistry with the latter two/seven is brilliant, as is Jetfire in fact, and Soundwave really shines.

Art

There were complaints during some RID and Dark Cybertron about multiple artists on the same book, but I think that Guido Guidi and Brendan Cahill work really well with Andrew Griffith's core work. Guidi gracefully takes us through Faireborn and the Decepticons' dealings before we reach the present day, and Cahill carefully creates some Cybertronian past scenes with Prowl, among others. Griffith, on the third hand, handles well the 'today' bits, with the final pages packing a magnificent, gigantic punch.

Sold separately!

As for the colours, Josh Perez takes egregiously care, as usual, of the present day scenes, while Joana Lafuente looks masterfully after the flashback sequences, be they on Cybertron or Earth, each working really quite well with the three artists. Tom B. Long on lettering, meanwhile, has a field day with the soundwords and section titles in the issue.

CHAGA RUANK glowww

And now, a note on the covers: other than being absolutely amazing, the Constructicon variant is Casey Coller and Joana Lafuente's work, while the ongoing incentive featuring Optimus, Rodimus and Hardhead (thumbnail) is Marcelo Matere's lines and John-Paul Bove's colours (and not Tramontano, as some digital issues might claim)! Aren't they pretty? So pretty.

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

We get to see Prowl developing into ..something intriguing, at the moment, Soundwave's actual leadership-behind-the-Galvatron, Earth's almost justified hatred of the Cybertronians, Arcee's new alt-mode AND SOUNDWAVE'S TOO and some really nice action scenes and dialogue moments, with highlights pointed out above. Yet it somehow feels a little slower that the opening issue, and its other two companions this month.

...

It's really not that much, and there are panels and lines that really pick everything up again, but I feel the flicking between timeframes for different characters, though quite clear and signposted, got in the way of much needed conversation between Faireborn, Jazz, Optimus and the rest of the main cast - maybe in the coming issues? The issue looks great, nevertheless!

out of

IDW Transformers: Windblade #2 Review

Date: Wednesday, May 21st 2014 3:06am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Reviews, Site Articles
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): IDW Publishing, Va'al

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Views: 50,235

*REC
(Spoiler free-ish)

Synopsis
CYBERTRON UNDER FIRE! Someone is out to kill WINDBLADE—but discovering who means turning to some less-than-savory ’Bots. Can WINDBLADE trust her informants enough to stake her life on them? And who will she turn to when the events of DARK CYBERTRON come back to haunt them all?

FAT TANKOR, clearly

Story

Aaand we're back on Cybertron, as Windblade recovers from the first issue's explosion, abruptly waking up to the reality of Cybertron and its somehow democratically elected ruler Lord Starscream, and aide Rattrap. Indeed, both her and the other Camien Chromia start digging for proof of ..well, anything. This is Starscream after all.

That kinda sums up the setting

After a fairly painful and actually quite visually uncomfortable moment between the two opposing main characters, Windblade does set with Chromia to investigate the happenings from issue #1, and find out from Metroplex, Ironhide and others what might help them - stumbling across an adorable and well-rounded Waspinator.

At Maccadam's, where else

The dialogue works very well, and there are definitely distinctive voices for different characters, other than the obvious Wazzzzpinator quirks (and he really does shine in this issue, finally a proper, not-exclusively comical look at his character). Starscream gets creepier, Chromia gets tougher, and Windblade has some good, moving moments with Metroplex, too.

*This* is Chromia

Another solid issue, if a little slower compared to the opening one. It feels more like a legal-procedural with political intrigue, with a significant emotional and personal take on some of the key players, and all the better for it in places, less punchy in others.

Art

The artwork, on the other hand, and as fully expected, is still quite marvellous. Sarah Stone's composition of the panels does some really great work in terms of border employment and perspectives, making 'camera angles' more so than initially expected, for example, and sliding in some really really cool shots - and transformation sequences.

"Too close, a little too close"

The colours, of course, do wonders to complement the artwork, and all still at the hands of Stone. But I want to take some time to look at Chris Mowry's lettering, after Scott pointed out something last month: Metroplex's multifaceted speech is due to Mowry's excellent handiwork. And it is magnificent.

See? Magnificent

So yes, the artistic team nails it truly and squarely. And that includes the truly great covers, with the main version by Stone, an amazing Alex Milne and Priscilla Tramontano variant, with a steadfast, defiant Camien, and a haunting continuation of last week's MTMTE #29 incentive by Marcelo Matere and Tramontano again - in the post thumbnail!

Thoughts
Spoilerish ahead

The writing is really, truly good, alternating a great dialogue with steady monologue, and bringing out some touching moments of interaction between characters, especially Metroplex and his Cityspeaker. The final sections feel like a tremendous teasing build-up to what's to come next month - and, in fact, that's exactly what they are.

Because Scott is an evil mastermind

I was conflicted about whether the slower pacing would hinder the full enjoyment of the issue, especially compared to last month. On re-reading the story once more, however, and taking in every single panel slowly, the emotional, empathetic, compassionate qualities of Windblade shine onto the often misused Waspinator and resonate with Metroplex, without it ever being too much of an aside. Slower? Yes. But also really quite moving. Bring on the next issue.

½ out of

Seibertron.com Interviews Colourist Josh Perez!

Date: Monday, May 19th 2014 9:55am CDT
Categories: Comic Book News, Site Articles, People News, Interviews
Posted by: Va'al | Credit(s): Josh Perez, Va'al

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Views: 91,401

We're back here at Seibertron.com with another full-length chat with one of the minds behind the hands behind the Transformers comics offered by IDW Publishing - and it's time to go full colour: ladynuts and gentlebolts, please welcome colourist extraordinaire Josh Perez!

Va'al - Josh, it's a pleasure to be able to talk to you at last. We've all seen your amazing work on Robots in Disguise, and then the magnificence that was your power-through with the whole of Dark Cybertron, it's only fair we find out more about you! So, to begin from the beginning: when did the Transformers enter your life? What's your first memory?

Josh - Pleasure is all mine, buddy! Transformers was kinda always there when I was a kid; mostly in the background of a toy visit or seeing some kid playing with "a cool robot that turns into a gun, or a car, or a jet, or a...", and so on. I can't say what my first TF memory was, but I remember when I was about 5, we were sent the TF movie on VHS, and I spent the whole time worrying Bumblebee would die. I mean, the other Autobot deaths, Prime included, were major deals, but once I knew Bee was okay, I was a happy burrito.

Va'al - I have to say, that's not a feeling we're used to hearing in the fandom these days! Would you say Bumblebee is still your favourite character? Are there version of him that stand out, or that are not worth remembering?

Josh - He most certainly is still my favorite character! I'm always going to be partial to the G1 Gilvezan Bee, but the Pretender and Action Master Bumblebees are nostalgic favorites. I have the Action Master Bee as a kid, and he was, surprisingly, my only Bee toy from the G1 era. A friend of mine had the Pretender Bee, and the Marvel TF stories made me really like him as a character. Transformers Animated Bee is the only recent Bee I've found myself excited to see. His design is great!

As for forgettable Bees, I think that his movie incarnation hasn't done much to justify the shelf space he tends to take up. I like his design, but you could make him any other Autobot and nothing would really change. I felt the same way about Transformers Prime Bumblebee for a while. He was just a background character (which, honestly, he kinda needed to be after how much the movies shoved him in everyone's faces), but towards the end of Prime he became interesting and I felt his presence was necessary outside of being the guy that beepbooped.

Va'al - Aha, so the kid appeal character appealed to you as a kid, when that was its intention - I'm sure someone at Hasbro was very happy about that! You mentioned the Marvel Transformers comics just now, were they a regular appointment for you, an avid reader, or were you not that invested in them?

Josh - I started reading the Marvel comics late in the game - around Matrix Quest. Before I left Germany, I remember seeing Wildman's cover for "The Price of Life", and maaan that cover messed with me head! It was so twisted and different and gorgeous. If it wasn't for that cover, the Marvel books would have just faded out for me when we came to the States.

I remember getting a trade of the first four issues that I would read over and over again at school, and then my dad would take me to a now-out-of-business-but-amazing-at-the-time bookstore called "Keep On Bookin' " where I'd buy back issues and read them through most of my elementary/middle school existence. I also bought issues of G2, but I lent the ones I had to a friend and never got them back..! I was pretty invested in the Marvel stories when I got to the States since we had local comic places all over.

Va'al - That is quite the unsettling cover, isn't it? And something we almost saw again, relatively recently. But how long did it take you from readingthe comics to making your own doodles and scribbles? Did you start drawing and colouring *on* comics before moving *into* comics?

Josh - Oh man! I would never have dreamed of defacing those books. I tried to make several Transformer comics as a kid in elementary school; around 4th grade was when I realized I really wanted to be in either comics or animation. In early high school I got to play with Photoshop 5.5 and I started to focus more on learning how to use the program to color artwork.

Va'al - I see it as interactive enjoyment rather than defacing! So was colouring your first venture into the world of comics creation, or were you into the writing, drawing, inking and such?

Josh - I was drawing/inking little comics I'd irritate my friends with before I ventured into coloring- and I remember a friend had a short lived/now deleted webcomic that I drew/lettered/storied a few pages of - but luckily those are gone forever because they're prime examples of how to not do anything art, color, letter, or story related to comics, haha! Oh, those days of high school and early college... Professionally speaking, though, coloring was definitely where I began input in comic creation.

Va'al - I'm sure there was something salvageable in those early ventures, too! (And I'm even more sure that some collector out there would love to get their hands on them.) So we're up to your actual debut as a comics creator: was it with IDW Publishing directly, or did you work with and for others first? How did you rise to technicolour stardom?

Josh - Back in 2003 my name was suggested to Dreamwave Productions when they needed help coloring their More Than Meets The Eye profile book; I got to color Wheeljack and the Terrorcons/Abominus in issue seven; work started coming in after that!

Va'al - Yet another Dreamwave-induced artist! Can you remember your first full-length gig in a comic? Anything you are particularly proud of from the earlier stages of your professional career?

Josh - My first full length comic was after Dreamwave shut down on a comic called "100 Girls" by Adam Gallardo and Todd Demong; another Dreamwave colorist and friend, Cil Chueng, was leaving as colorist because of college or something (sorry, Cil! I forget!) and offered the gig to me.

I can't say I'm too fond of anything I've done back in the Dreamwave days- my contrast was bland and my value colors lacked punch. BUT I have a sweet spot for the profile book pieces I've done for the G1 and Armada MtMtE books; and Energon issue #26 was when I first started working with Alex Milne on actual comic issues, even if they're not my best work, I'm happy with them.

Va'al - Dreamwave had its peaks, that is definitely true. But we also do have to admit loving your current work on IDW Publishing titles! How did you get into those? How does it feel to be recognised by fans and on the front cover of monthly comics?

Josh - Alex [Milne] and I had formed a kind of duo after Dreamwave, and when he got work, I got work; I think our first IDW piece was a cover for Spotlight: Kup (I also got Nick's cover for Spotlight: Kup as well); it was a lot of cover work, but then came Megatron: Origin and the Movie Adaptation and stuff.

And now, when people open their RiD books or when they buy the right MtMtE cover, there I am, ruining their experience! ah-hah-hah-hah-hah-hah. But honestly, it's weird- especially now that IDW has been putting colorist credit on their covers... or when really awesome fans tell me they like my work in the books. Never gonna get used to it!

Va'al - I can assure you that no one's day, experience or comic is ruined with your colours! Not even when you repaint *everyone* to look like Bumblebee. (We have proof, do not deny it.) Before you leave us to return to slave away on art tasks, is there anything we can expect in the future of the Perez verse? Convention appearances, different titles, pencil or ink work, writing?

Josh - Well, I'll be doing BotCon this year, as well as TFCon- assuming nothing goes wrong, of course, so stop by and say hi!

Aside from Transformers, I've colored a few new Matt Frank Godzilla covers that look pretty snazzy (more on his part, less on mine, haha!), and the team I worked with on ShiftyLook's/ Namco-Bandai's Bravoman Webcomic (Matt Moylan and Dax Gordine) are in the planning/design phase for a new, creator-owned book called "Avian Odyssey". You can check out updates at AvianOdyssey.com; right now it's design stuff, videos on characters being drawn; very neat!

Va'al - It sounds like you're ridiculously busy, as usual, so even further thanks for taking the time to chat with us! I think we should let readers know how they can follow your work if they want to, too - wouldn't you agree?

Josh - But of course! I post a lot of artwork over on deviantART and Tumblr, Twitter - all under "Dyemooch"!

Thanks very much for the chat!

You've heard the man! Make sure to check out Josh's work, including that amazing Starscream print we posted above, chat to him on social media, and until next time, we've been your usual comics creator fix here at Seibertron.com.

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