Transformers Live Action Movie Blog (TFLAMB)

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Dark of the Moon Linkfest

The movie news keeps coming and expect to ramp up even more with the world premiere in Moscow, the various talk show appearances and who knows what else. This is probably the best time to squeeze in various Transformers: Dark of the Moon news related to toys, promotions, toy reviews, Kre-O reviews, Oakley 3D glasses and more.

Life Sized Transformers Scrap Metal Statues
At this link is a few pictures of Transformers created over the years from scrap metal. I think I have posted about most of them at some time or another but nice to see them collected together. If want to check out more Optimus Prime, click here. Thanks to Feris for the link.

Soundwave Toys Coming
Now that we know that Soundwave's earth mode is a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, it is just a matter of time before the toys would come out. Full Metal Hero is reporting that three of them are in the works - a Human Alliance with Laserbeak, Deluxe Soundwave, and Cyberverse Legion. Expected release date is October, sadly no images yet.

New DOTM Footage in Linkin Park's Iridescent Trailer

Linkin Park has posted a short video to promote their new single Iridescent in Transformers: Dark of the Moon. With it is a ton of new footage not seen before or a few extra seconds to those scenes like the Bumblebee wall bounce to catch Sam and Lennox. If listen carefully can hear a hint of some of the great sound effects too. Its like getting a trailer and couple TV spots in one. Thanks to Chris for the link.

Higher Quality DOTM TV Spot Featuring Brains

It only took six days but a higher quality version of the Transformers: Dark of the Moon TV spot that briefly shows the new "Brains" character has been released online (amusing to see all the sites treating it as "new"). I don't think this is the HD version yet and sadly it seems MichaelBay.com has stopped posting the new TV spots so this might just be as good as it gets.

Transformers: DOTM Clip From The Late Show

Transformers: Dark of the Moon's Rosie Huntington-Whiteley appeared on The Last Show with David Letterman. During the appearance a new movie clip was shown. Thanks to Chris I was aware of the appearance and waiting on the Late Show website to add the clip but thanks to Seibertron there is no need to wait. The clip seems to serve as an introduction to the relationship between Sam and his girlfriend Carly. A video of the Rosie interview is now on YouTube (below).

Spielberg To Direct Transformers 4?

The short answer is probably not. The long answer is it is way too soon to know. However, that has not stopped MovieWeb from posting their "exclusive" that Hollywood great Steven Spielberg "may" direct Transformers 4. Spielberg is the Executive Producer of the three Transformers films so he has at least the basic knowledge to easily take up were Michael Bay leaves off. Don't get excited though, this "information" comes from Tyrese Gibson who was suggesting this hypothetical scenario.

If Michael Bay decides to come back for Transformers 4, I'll be there. We'll make it happen. (Right now), I think we are all exhausted with the process. If this movie does what we are all assuming it's going to do, then, I think it’s time to revisit this conversation. When it's time. There are no concepts, no direction, no nothing for Transformers 4, because everyone has been so focused on Transformers: Dark of the Moon. But here is the safety net. Are you ready for this?

Optimus Prime Mega Punch in New TV Spot

For a few days now, comments in the blog have mentioned another TV spot for Transformers: Dark of the Moon that described Optimus Prime's spiked fist tearing a Decepticon nearly in half. Sadly that spot has not appeared online, until now. It is low quality but might just be one of the best yet. Thanks to John W. for the link.

New IMAX 3D Poster and Movie Stills

Fandango has posted an image of the new Transformers: Dark of the Moon IMAX 3D poster. The image is similar to the others with a ruined Chicago in the background but Prime is on his knees but clearly ready to continue the fight. The picture size is on the small size but sure a larger one will pop up soon. In addition, the Huffington Post has five new movie stills to join the other ones.

Newest Transformers: Dark of the Moon TV Spot & Building Banner

ComingSoon has posted the next commercial of Transformers: Dark of the Moon (YT embed below). In addition, the site has posted an image (also below) of a large Optimus Prime banner covering the side of a LA building. For now the placeholder name is "The Invasion" but hopefully Nelson will post the real title soon. Thanks to Feris Othman for link and Winton for YouTube link.

A few Transformers video games stuff has popped up today. Activision has released a press release for yesterday's release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Game while the voice of Optimus Prime, Peter Cullen, did his part to promote the game to USA Today. In addition Jagex, makers of the Transformers Universe MMO, released their Botcon teaser video, screensaver and concept art. From the Cullen interview:

"Doing the movie or the animated series, there's a plot and character development and a sense of continuous feeling of one kind or another," Cullen explains. "But in the game, you're one-on-one with an individual, and the lines are quick one-liners oftentimes, and maybe some advice now and then. Basically, it's a one-on-one mental intimacy with the player. That is much different than being involved as a spectator watching a film or a show."

Transformers Hall of Fame Character Inductees

Hasbro has released three of the videos they put together when announcing three of the character Transformers that joined the Hall of Fame at Botcon a week ago - Soundwave, Ironhide and Ratchet. They had earlier released the videos for Michael Bay and Steven Spielberg. Not sure if fan choice Waspinator got one too. The videos are edits of the character from their various cartoon and movie incarnations over the years.

The Hub to Air The Making of Transformers: DOTM

The Hub has issued a press release via Toonzone announcing that The Hub will air "The Making of Transformers: Dark of the Moon". The special will air the Saturday before the movie's premiere on Saturday, June 25th at 2pm EST with encores airing June 26th, July 2nd, July 3rd and July 4th. Based on the comments about the networks financial troubles, it seems most will miss it. No worries, if can't watch it, pretty much a guarantee it will be part of the DVD & Blu-ray release. If can catch it, also watch the network on the 4th of July as they are doing a marathon of Transformers Generation 1 and Transformers: Prime episodes from 1-8pm EST.

Chances are the special is the usual 22 minute sales pitch that is sadly typical of most of Hollywood's "behind the scenes" shows where everyone talks about how awesome the movie will be, how hard everyone worked and so forth with re-use of trailer video and shorts that are actual behind the scenes stuff like a minute or two of ILM explaining some aspect of their visual effects work. If sound a touch bitter it is because if someone is watching a behind the scenes special, chances are high they are already sold on the movie. Sales pitch not needed. Wish Hollywood would get that. Press release below.

The Hub In Trouble?

It seems that Hasbro and Discovery Communications hopes for The Hub is not (yet) quite working out as planned. Deadline is reporting that Discovery Communications filed a $500 million debt notice to the SEC in part because of the lackluster audience the network has been getting with an average total day audience of only 23,000. I doubt The Hub is the cause of all that debt, just a portion of it. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Discovery "amended its agreement with Hasbro Inc. regarding The Hub to revise the license fees paid by The Hub for animated programs. This amendment creates a trigger event for purposes of intangible asset and goodwill impairment testing." While all this is out of my realm of understanding, my reading of it indicates that to offset the losses Hasbro has to pay more for its programming to air on the network. The more Hasbro has to pay (especially if doesn't get that in return with increase in toy shelves) will likely start impacting what airs on the network. Most new networks (even those that just rename themselves) have growing pains but it seems this move after less than a year of existence indicates that Discovery has real doubts about the future of the collaboration.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Game wasn't the only tie-in product released today. Also hitting shelves is The Album in its three versions the 11 track CD regular version, 14 track iTunes exclusive, and 13 track GameStop version. The Score is coming out in two weeks on June 28th.

I was able to preview the regular version but decided to not write a review simply due to the fact that I am not a fan of most of the bands on the album so my indifference to it is expected and useless to base a purchase decision on. If it helps Artist Direct has a review but it is so over the top fawning that I have a hard time taking it seriously.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Stills from Dark of the Moon & Chicago Comparisons (Updated 2)

Yahoo! Movies has posted 8 new stills from Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Most focus on the human characters but not all. Sadly the image sizes are not that big but still some cool shots. Thanks to Brendon for the link.

Speaking of still images, Jeff of Pixel Rally has posted more images from the Chicago set from when a lot of those stills were filmed. He also put together a comparison shots from the trailers & TV spots with what his camera captured last year. One of his observations is the building that gets squashed by the 100% CGI glass building (it was "built" on the neighboring empty lot) was changed between trailers, "they've made it look like there's a patio table instead of a person, and changed the styling of the building itself." He also has an image of Shia attacking a blue head while in Chicago which thanks to the TV spots we now know is Starscream so Jeff did a little Photoshop to the image to make the case. The comparison images are below, the full larger sized gallery can be found here.

Update Two need comparison images added by Jeff. One shows the "Power Glove" which actually appears to be a safety contraption as he swings around so can be "caught" by Bumblebee. The other gives you an idea of how cardboard face can be come more with Michael Bay and ILM doing their magic.

Update 2: Jeff, who was on site at the time it was filmed, argues that the glove is not a safety device, but "I think it shoots some grappling hook that Sam uses to climb up on the Decepticon, rides on it's head as he attacks it, and falls off, at which point Bumblebee catches him. There's other shots where the Josh Duhamel stunt double is trying to cut Sam free from the cable, and maybe he succeeds, so that's when they fall and Bumblebee skids in, Transforms, runs up the wall and saves them." He then provided a college to show the sequence of events (last pic below).

Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Game Launch Trailer

Tomorrow is the official release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Game at retail (and midnight at select Gamespot locations). Gametrailers has posted the launch trailer. Most of the trailer is based on game video footage with a light dose of in game play. It is a prequel to the movie so no worries about spoilers. If wondering if want to buy, just ask yourself if you enjoyed War for Cybertron as it uses that game's graphics engine and game play design.

Dark of the Moon "Always Feared" TV Spot (Updated)

A new TV spot for Transformers: Dark of the Moon started airing over the weekend. I received reports of it but now a low-res version has been posted with an appropriate placeholder title of "New Enemies.“ Hopefully a HD version will be posted soon. Thanks to Winton, John and others for the heads-up.
Update: Swapped out video with a higher (but not HD) quality video from tonight's NBA Finals. Thanks to eanetdude for the link.
Update 2: MB.com has posted the HD version of the trailer officially called "Always Feared".

Dark of the Moon Coming Early to Cape Canaveral

Florida Today is reporting that randomly chosen visitors to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at Cape Canaveral, Florida will get the chance to watch Transformers: Dark of the Moon a day before everyone else on June 28th. It is listed as three days early but that was before the premiere date was bumped up to June 29th. The movie had filmed there back in October. Thanks to Winton for the link.

"Visitor complex spokeswoman Andrea Farmer said 300 visitors to the complex on the morning of June 28 will be randomly picked to bring a guest to view either a 4 p.m. or 7 p.m. showing of the film there that day."

With roughly 4,100 people visiting the complex on a typical day, based on annual attendance figures of 1.5 million, there's about a 1-in-14 chance of winning. Additionally, 100 Commander's Club annual pass holders will be invited to view the movie.

Transformers Linkfest

Another catch-up news, reviews, and galleries on Transformers that doesn't involve the soon to be released movie. The info includes more hints on Transformers: The Ride, a new novel series, a comics related interview, amusing videos and reviews of most of the Botcon exclusive toys.

Transformers: The Ride Concept Art
Beyond the plans, there has been very little revealed about the attraction that is being built at Universal Studios Hollywood and Singapore. Some new artwork, four images total, have been released that hints at a tiny bit of what the attraction may contain including a look at an Autobot cavern, the line area for customers, control room and All Spark containment area.

New Transformers: Classified Novel Series
A leak on Amazon Japan indicates that a new young adult novel series is in the works called Transformers: Classified. The first novel, called "Switching Gears", written by Ryder Windham is scheduled to be released on October 21, 2011. The description provides few details, "An original Transformers novel series! Secrets are uncovered in the Nevada desert when a boy witnesses two Transformers arrive on Earth." There is no indication which TF universe this takes place in by considering Hasbro is at least trying to create a single one, I assume it is the War for Cybertron one.

New Tranformers: DOTM TV Spot With Brains

A new 15 second TV spot has aired for Transformers: Dark of the Moon features the first look at Wheelie's BFF, Brains. What is he, what does he have to do with the plot of the story, and what is his alt mode remain a secret. Thanks to eanetdude for the video link. No HD version yet, will update once it is available.

CGI Wreckers Images

The international Facebook page for Transformers: Dark of the Moon has posted three new poster-like images that focus on The Wreckers - Roadbuster (green), Leadfoot (red), and Topspin (blue). Outside of the toy packaging, this is a the first real look at the robot modes for each. Mullet jokes aside, they look pretty awesome. The only thing I can't decide is are they wearing sunglasses or are their eyes designed to look like sunglasses? Thanks to everyone for the heads-up.

Thursday, June 09, 2011

Possible Preview of DOTM Score

The official site for Transformers: Dark of the Moon has added what is probably chords from selected tracks from DOTM The Score album that is set for June 28th release. According to TFW2005, they were able to determine the possible titles as Conspiracy, Lost Signal, Sentinel, Glorious, and Battle. It seems like Hasbro did with their character bios, an effort has been made to make sure the score titles didn't give any spoilers. Click here to listen.

Shia Not Returning for Fourth Transformers Film

While at the MTV Movie Awards, Shia LaBeouf and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley briefly discussed Transformers: Dark of the Moon (videos below). Rosie spoke about Michael Bay, saying they have the same work ethic.

Shia spoke about how the film has "the best action" with "the most solid screenplay we've had since we started." More important, he made it clear he isn't returning for a fourth film. While Bay had suggested it in interviews, I do believe this is the first time Shia has gone on the record.

"I'm not coming back to do another one. I don't think Mike will either. It still is a hot property, I think, especially coming out of the third one. So I imagine they'll reboot it at some point with someone else."

I am not entirely sure why a reboot is needed but that is big in Hollywood right now so would not be surprised if that is what happens. Keep in mind so far there has been no discussion of a fourth film but look for that to change if this film does well, especially if it breaks the billion dollar barrier which could happen considering how well the last two films did.

Behind the Scenes of Iridescent Music Video

A new behind the scenes video has been posted on NoiseCreep for the Iridescent music video. Unlike the previous one, this one isn't trying to hide anything so its a longer, more detailed look at the filming process.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon IMAX is Not Longer

An error on the official IMAX website for Transformers: Dark of the Moon: An IMAX 3D Experience led to multiple Transformers sites reporting that the film had a 153 minute (2h 33min) running time which is 19 minutes longer than the reported non IMAX running time of an estimated 134 minutes (2h 14 min). The idea isn't entirely unprecedented as Revenge of the Fallen IMAX edition was a few minutes longer. Nelson, admin for MichaelBay.com, verified the running time error with a tweet. Thanks to Winton Ray for heads-up.

Imax print of #Transformers3 has no extra footage as being reported by some web sites. TF3 is 2hrs & 22mins plus 10min credit crawl.

More From Transformers 3 Chevy Road Show

Feris Othman has tweeted more pictures taken with his blackberry from the "Chevrolet Transformers 3" road show at 1 Utama shopping center in Petaling Jaya. Yesterday was about the large displays and cars while today focuses on the Transformers toy themselves. Chevy seems to know how to do displays right as they had three cases filled to the brim with Transformers from all eras (the pics are front and back of those cases). There was a display of just Bumblebee (cause of the Camaro) including a diorama that mimicked an Ultimate Bumblebee transforming. Even cooler, someone was on site creating custom paint jobs of move related toys including Shockwave, Megatron and Optimus Prime. If something like this was done stateside you would probably get the car, posters a rack of DOTM toys to buy (which this show also had) but not much else. To view Feris's full gallery click here.

Transformers 3 Chevy Road Show

As part of a Transformers: Dark of the Moon promotion, Chevy Malaysia with Naza Quest is doing the "Chevrolet Transformers 3" road show at 1 Utama shopping center in Petaling Jaya. The show includes a Chevy Camaro SS with Bumblebee related deco, a concept truck, and a 22" foot tall model of Optimus Prime. Thanks to Feris Othman, below are pictures from the road show that he tweeted.

Bay, Spielberg Transformers Hall of Fame Videos

Last Saturday, Steven Spielberg and Michael Bay were inducted in the 2nd Annual Transformers Hall of Fame ceremony at Botcon 2011. Below are the two videos that was shown with various producers and actors of the Transformers movie franchise commented on their impact on the TF universe. Thanks to Feris Othman for the link.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon Finished?

Nelson has tweeted a simple message "It is done." on the Shoot for the Edit twitter account.

Without any context that message makes little sense but since the account has been posting nothing but Transformers: Dark of the Moon related messages, it is safe to assume he is referring to the movie. This indicates the film has completed its visual effects, sound, voice work and all those many details that go into the final product in post-production. It is now ready for replication so can be distributed worldwide in time for its June 29th release that is just three short weeks away. Must be a relief to Michael Bay who was working on Revenge of the Fallen right up to its worldwide premiere in Japan. Thanks to Feris Othman for the heads-up.

Tuesday, June 07, 2011

DOTM The Game Prime Days and Interview

Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Game is just a week away from release on all the major systems (except PC). As a result, the official website has ramped up the updates with new content, most of it the normal stuff like trailers, game details, bios and screenshots. The Game Facebook page is also getting new content with something called "Prime Days". For the next 47 days new content will be added such as concept art, wallpaper, quizzes and so forth. As a preview, concept art was released from the game, which you can find here.

Also Italian website ScreenWeek has an interview with High Moon Studios Game Director Sean Miller. Below is an English translation of the interview thanks to Filippo.

1- Could you tell us something about the plot of the game? Is it a prologue to the upcoming movie?
Transformers: Dark of the Moon is a prologue companion to the film. We worked with Hasbro and Paramount to create a unique story that sets up characters and situations in the upcoming movie – that way we can tap into the broad history of Transformers without spoiling any of the big moments for the film.

Dark of the Moon Camaro and Double A Commercials

As is often the case with big blockbuster movies, there are commercial tie-ins and Transformers: Dark of the Moon is no exception. The Camaro commercial has been airing in theatres for a week or so but yesterday it finally aired on TV during the MTV Movie Awards right after the "Cover Up" TV spot. The commercial is called "Chevy Getaway" and now available in HD (below). In addition, an extended sequence involving Laserbeak transforming from a copier is part of a new ad (below but no HD) for Australian product Double A paper complete with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee ads. Thanks to Teddy83, Winston, and Carlos for the heads-up.

Movie Movie Awards' DOTM TV Spot (Updated)

A new TV spot aired during the MTV Movie Awards and Game 3 of the NBA Finals that has a few new scenes. Speaking of the awards, Bumblebee was on hand in both car and robot mode as part of the Movie Awards Exclusive props that included the Breaking Dawn invitations (pics 1-10), Captain America shield (11), Red Skull bike (12), and Green Lantern props (13-15). The cast of Transformers: Dark of the Moon was also on hand to present Best Fight Award which was won by The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. Click here for recap of awards, here for list of winners. Hopefully MTV Movie Awards 2012 will be full of DOTM love.
Update: MB.com has posted the HD version of the trailer.

TV Spot #6 - "Cover Up"

Botcon 2011 Final Day Linkfest (Updated)

Today was the last day for Botcon 2011. As is often the case for conventions, not a whole lot of "new" left to report but below are links to reports from remaining panels, video and more galleries.

Update: Two new posts of interest. If interested in watching the IDW panel, Allspark has it posted here. If want to watch even more videos, Seibertron has posted 21 videos that cover all of Botcon from registration to all the toys displays and exclusives. Those can be found here.

Rage Over Cybertron 3-Pack
The new toy set was revealed that is three TFs from War for Cybertron line put sporting a new deco. If missed these Generations toys last year, this will be another chance to pick them up.

Hasbro Brand Panel
Hasbro panel that covers Transformers non-toy plans. Exiles, the sequel to novel Exodus, focuses on Optimus, involves rediscovery of lost TF colonies, more background on The 13, and introduce a new threat to the single continuity Hasbro is attempting to build. Mentioned Transformers: The Ride will be in 3D, based on the movies and one sequence will have riders go into Devastator's jaws. Hit the link for more.

Botcon 2011 Dark of the Moon Footage Description

One of the items I didn't post about for Botcon 2011's Day 3 was the predicted showing of footage from Transformers: Dark of the Moon. While at the Transformers Hall of Fame event, the audience was able to view the first five minutes of the movie, three scenes and a montage of clips. A summary is below with detailed description can be found here.

The first five minutes cover The Ark leaving Cybertron but while crossing through the space bridge is damaged by a Decepticon attack leading to it crash landing on Earth. The landing, detected by NASA leads to the space race to the moon and the secret mission on the first lunar landing that was shown in the preview trailer that including the recovery of an unknown item from the ship.

Day 3 of Botcon 2011 has concluded in Pasadena, California and it seems to have been a good day with panels from Hasbro and Activision among others. The Hall of Fame ceremony was held with Beast War's Waspinator revealed to be the fan choice for inductee. Also lots more Transformers toy pictures from all eras and upcoming exclusives. As was with Day 1 & 2 post, if you see a link, probably worth clicking.

Hall of Fame Goodie Bag
A look at the freebies given to those that attended the Hall of Fame ceremony. Nothing major, just advertisements and the like but worth a moment to click through.

Hasbro Panel
Lots of info on the next six months or so of toy releases that Hasbro has in the pipeline. Hit the link for specifics but a few highlights include Ironhide getting a G1 inspired red repaint, a Cyberverse Battle Pack with Bumblebee and Barricade that was inspired by the D.C. police accident with Bumblebee, and Generations line will continue. As for as Kre-0, will be 28 "Kreons" at launch which is sometime this Summer. Transformers: Prime will be released on 12/1/11 with Deluxe Cliffjumper, Voyager Optimus Prime, Voyager Bulkhead, and others.

Botcon 2011 Day 1 & 2 Linkfest

The official Transformers Convention, called Botcon, is going on this weekend at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California from June 2nd to June 5th. The convention is similar to a comic book one only it is about all things Transformers with dealer rooms, panels and more. Expected panels include most of the voice cast from Transformers: Prime, Hasbro introducing their TF: Prime toys and upcoming plans and Michael Bay accepting his entry into the Transformers Hall of Fame. I wouldn't even be surprised if he shows up with exclusive clips that sadly the rest of may not get to see.

Sadly I could not afford to go but luckily other Transformers sites could and they have posted lots of pictures and videos from the first two days. Below are those that grabbed my attention especially Kre-O which is bigger and better than expected. In addition get a first look at the Transformers: Prime toys, info on the upcoming TF MMORPG, lots of galleries, look at the Hall of Fame displays, and lot more. If you see a link, probably worth clicking it.

Kre-O Transformers Gallery
Hasbro's new answer to Lego. If the large gallery at the link is any indication, the result could be pretty awesome. My favorite aspect is the TF version of the Lego mini-figs, especially the Botcon exclusive Optimus Prime. Taking a page from Lego, human size creations have also been built for display purposes. Based on the images the release date for the line is July-August 2011 and will not just be based on DOTM but also Generation One.

It has been a while since a link fest due to a lot of Transformers: Dark of the Moon movie specific news. This is a catch up of the toy and video game information with more coming from Botcon. Of note is a look at Leadfoot with maybe alt mode of Brains, a video review of Optimus Prime with trailer, Warpath concept art, galleries and more.

First Look at Wrecker Leadfoot
At this point I can't keep track of all the toys but I do believe this is the first time we have seen a toy for the red Wrecker Leadfoot. Of note is this is a Human Alliance figure with an interesting "human" which apparently is a Transformer dog. Could this be the alt mode of Brains, new BFF for Wheelie?

IDW August Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for August that starts the main Chaos storyline that will run through the books through the end of the year. A total of two books and one trade is being released. If you are interested in the books, just let your local comic book store know. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, and relaunch of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and more click here.

Transformers #23
Written by James Roberts, art and covers by Alex Milne.
CHAOS Prelude! Last issue, you discovered the first ever meeting between Optimus Prime and Megatron. And if the surprises there weren't enough -- you won't believe what happens just hours later! Optimus Prime recounts the fascinating end of their introduction as he decides the fate of the jailed Megatron.
32 pages, $3.99.

Names of Ferrari and Mercedes Is...

Nelson, admin for MichaelBay.com, has officially revealed the actual Transformers names of the red Ferrari 458 Italia and Mercedes-Benz E550.

Post 1:

Let's welcome the Ferrari 458 Italia to the Transformers family
His name is "Dino."
It's pronounced Dee-No.

Post 2:

And the Mercedes E550 is...
Que. Pronounced "Q."

The second post also had a link to the wikipedia article on the famous "Q" of the James Bond movies. The name of the Ferrari is out of left field and has no correspondence to Transformers that I am aware of. As for the "famous Italian”, Nelson said it is after Enzo Ferrari's son, Alfredo Ferrari for which the 458 was named in the design stage. There was also the Ferrari Dino from 1968-1976.

Ironically, the name of the Mercedes was leaked last July but none of us gave it serious thought that would be the final name mostly due to copyright/trademark problems with the 007 franchise. I guess the change in spelling to "Que" gets around that obstacle. The loud groan you here from California is probably everyone at Botcon as this news spreads. Thanks to NHLfan for the links.

Iridescent Music Video Returns, Full Monster Single

After a day delay due to "technical difficulties" but more likely an arrangment with USA Today, Linkin Park has reposted their music video Iridescent (below) from the Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Album. In addition, Paramore has posted the full audio single (below) of their song "Monster" from the album. Thanks to Dune and MV for the links.

It seems we know have an explanation on why Linkin Park's Iridescent music video was pulled. USA Today has posted an article that "reveals" the villain of Transformers: Dark of the Moon as Shockwave. While this is common knowledge to most Transformers fan, keep in mind it isn't to the average movie goer, press, or reader of USA Today. The key thing of note is the posted image is identical to the segment that LP used in their music video. I suspect that USA Today was given the "exclusive" on Shockwave and the posting of the video violated that promise from Paramount forcing it to be pulled down until this article went life and had time to circulate. As far as the article goes, one paragraph below could be a spoiler. Thanks to Brendan for the link.

New Transformers: DOTM TV Spot "Biggest Adventure" (Updated)

A new TV spot for Transformers: Dark of the Moon has been posted online. Unlike previous ones, this one has a bunch of new scenes including a shot of Wheelie, Shia at work, one of the alt modes for Laserbeak, and more. Thanks to MV for the link.
Updates: Swapped out video with better quality and sound. Thanks to Deathstroke_87.
Update 2: Thanks to Nelson of MB.com, the HD version is now available. Or was.
Update 3: MB.com's video was pulled but Dune (thanks) found another location. The lack of a title/credits at the end probably was why so expecting the "fixed" version to be up in a few days.

TV Spot #6 - "Biggest Adventure"

Shia Talks Different Vibe on DOTM Set

In an interview with Hero Complex, Transformers: Dark of the Moon star Shia LaBeouf (Sam Witwicky) spoke about Megan Fox leaving and the change in vibe that the casting of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (Carly Miller) brought to the set. In short, he felt Megan couldn't handle being rudely treated a bit like a piece of sexy meat while Rosie has no problem with it or with Bay's abrasiveness.

“Megan developed this Spice Girl strength, this woman-empowerment [stuff] that made her feel awkward about her involvement with Michael, who some people think is a very lascivious filmmaker, the way he films women,” LaBeouf said. “Mike films women in a way that appeals to a 16-year-old sexuality. It’s summer. It’s Michael’s style. And I think [Fox] never got comfortable with it. This is a girl who was taken from complete obscurity and placed in a sex-driven role in front of the whole world and told she was the sexiest woman in America. And she had a hard time accepting it. When Mike would ask her to do specific things, there was no time for fluffy talk. We’re on the run. And the one thing Mike lacks is tact. There’s no time for [LaBeouf assumes a gentle voice] ‘I would like you to just arch your back 70 degrees.’”

Linkin Park's Iridescent Music Video for Dark of the Moon (Updated)

MTV has posted Linkin Park's music video for Iridescent, the first single from the Transformers: Dark of the Moon The Album. The use of the various DOTM imagery, in black & white with elements pulled out, is very unique in look especially when compared to most movie related music videos that just edit in scenes from the movie. On the downside it makes it difficult to enjoy it as just a peak into the movie which I am sure Bay doesn't mind considering how much effort he has put in to lock down exactly how much the film is scene before its release. Despite that, there are some nuggets to enjoy like a look at Shockwave (:22), Sentinel Prime (1:49), Megatron's new transformation (2:31), and sweet Dweller & Shockwave pose (2:49). For international readers, sadly it seems the video is region locked. Warner Bros. is doing take down notices for anyone posting on YouTube so that isn't a lock either.

Dark of the Moon Birdmen TV Spot

Two new TV spots have popped up on line. As promised here is the promised 60 second "Birdmen" spot that is a shortened version of the behind the scenes video from MB.com. There was another TV spot posted but as the comments pointed out it is a fake so yanked it from the post.

TV Spot #5 - Birdmen (60s cut)

Wednesday, June 01, 2011

Behind the Scenes of Birdmen

MichaelBay.com's Nelson has posted a behind the scenes video for the new TV spot Birdmen that will air soon for Transformers: Dark of the Moon. The commercial and video covers the helicopter and building stunt jumps that where filmed in Chicago last year. As for the TV spot itself I suspect it will debut on Entertainment Tonight. DJ.BigtymeBeats reports seeing a commercial about a DOTM story they are going to run tonight. On a somewhat related note, Nelson has also tweeted hi-res, large file size images of Bumblebee, Megatron, and Optimus Prime but they are not from DOTM. Thanks to Feris Othman for the heads-up.

The current edition of Transformers Vault book has provided a concise description of the upcoming Transformers: Dark of the Moon movie. The Vault book is a pictorial look at the history of Transformers and the various collectibles that have been made over the years around the franchise. Thanks to emptygalaxies here is the books description of the movie that he was able to transcribe from a picture he took of the page. Question marks denote that image was to blurry to determine the word.

Spoiler Warning (but not as nearly bad as adaptation info)

Transformers: Dark of the Moon Trailers, TV Spots, and Posters

Partly to increase their size and partly because it was bogging down the page loading, I have moved all the trailers and TV spots here. Also tossed in the posters for giggles.

TV Spot #24 - "Freedom"