Sophia Myles Added To Transformers 4 Cast

The Wrap is reporting that Sophia Myles (Moonlight, MI-5) has joined the cast of Transformers 4 in a "major supporting role" that might be a scientist. This will add her to the already known leads of Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor and Kelsey Grammer. Considering her lovely looks, I suspect it probably will evolve into a love interest of sorts for Wahlberg's character. I enjoyed watching her on Moonlight (a vampire series cancelled just before vampire stuff became popular again with Twilight) so please with the addition. Transformers 4 starts principal photography in June or July in Detroit or Chicago (reports vary). Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Amazing Transformers Inspired Costume

Below is a video of a sweet movie Transformers inspired costume called Bolt with moving parts, light up eyes, jet pack smoke thrusters, moving mouth and more. The sound is off because Marc De Repentigny got a notice about the background music that was playing. You can also find a gallery of images for the suit at MarksProjects.com.

China's Transformers 4 Reality Show Begins Casting Process

Transformers 4 Chinese Actor Talent Search reality show to find 4 actors for the movie has started its casting process. The reality show is culling from 50,000 to 80,000 entries to find 2 professional and 2 amateur actors to play unspecified roles in the movie when filming starts sometime this summer in the country. The show is a result of a "cooperation agreement" between China and Paramount for unspecified financial, promotional and political assistance for the movie.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the paring down process will occur in several rounds. The first round will have the television station running the show pare down the contestants based on unknown criteria and putting their bio, photo and audition tape online. The top 400 chosen by Chinese citizens via online voting will move to the semi-final round where there will be additional auditions and testing (for what is not specified). Another round of online voting will move to the finalists round where 6 judges will continue to eliminate contestants until the final four actors are chosen. Basically its the American Idol model without the initial touring the country episodes.

Transformers: The Ride Orlando Opens June 20th

My prediction that Transformers: The Ride Orlando would open on Memorial Day weekend turned out to be off by a month as today Universal Studios announced the official open date as Thursday, June 20th. Press release below.

The highly anticipated blockbuster attraction TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D will officially open on Thursday, June 20, 2013, Universal Orlando announced today.
Universal also launched an all-new “Join the Resistance” Facebook experience to prepare fans for the battle they’ll experience on the mega-attraction. “Recruits” can create their very own NEST IDs, train for battle, access exclusive photos and video and win prizes – including a trip to the attraction’s grand opening celebration on June 20. Click here to join the resistance.

Transformers 4 Casts Its (Human) Villain

Deadline is reporting that Kelsey Grammer (Boss, Frasier) has been cast as the human bad guy for Transformers 4. According to the site he is playing "Harold Attinger, a counter intelligence guy." The site also says production is supposed to start in July (rather then the rumored June I guess). No more details then that. As a long time fan of his work, it should be interesting to see how he chews the scenery. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Transformers: The Ride Orlando Campaign Begins

Universal Studios Orlando has begun their campaign for the grand opening of Transformers: The Ride. The attraction is already open in Hollywood and Singapore. The new campaign is beginning much the same as the Hollywood one with an outline of Megatron on the Fairwinds Credit Union with a "home video" (below) of an encounter with the Decepticon. The last time they started the marketing it was to later announce the attraction would open Memorial Day weekend which this year is May 24th to 27th. Another sign that the attraction is nearly ready to go is these great pictures from Wynton R. that show of the completed attraction building with stocked gift shop.

Linkfest - Lots of Reviews

This round of links on the latest in Transformers toys both official and not is just full of reviews. We reviews of Beast Hunters toys, latest MP release, and 3rd party upcoming releases like Tetra Squadron, not STunticons, and more. Also have reviews of past releases like a 30 year old Gobot gestault and God Ginrai. Not reviews include a look at the lastest addition to the Super GT line, encore Fortress Maximus, a new Megatron statue and Transformers Go comparisons.

Super GT Galleries - GTR Maximus | GTR Megatron
Takara has released a few more official images of their successors to the Binal-Tech line for Super GT racing. Four molds now are planned with Optimus Prime (GTR-01), Saber (GTR-02), Megatron (GTR-03) and now Maximus (GTR-04). I think its the same mold but with color differences and different heads molds for each character but not 100% on that. The average price of each is around $120 each with the first two coming out in the next month or so.

Possible Chinese Actors for Transformers 4

It seems that the main actors for the Chinese portion of Transformers 4 is starting to come together as Asian Pop News is reporting that actors Huang Xiaoming, Chen Kun and Tong Dawei. It also says that Huang has hired an English tutor so it seems their roles will be for more then just a Chinese cut of the film with their scenes. As usually time will tell exactly how China is being incorporated into the TF4 story. (via TFormers)

Transformers 4 Heading to Texas; Bay Scouts Chicago

You can add Austin, Texas area to the list of locations that Transformers 4 will be shooting this summer. According to Dallas News (via Seibertron), sometime in June the production will be in the small towns of Lockhart, Taylor, Elgin and Pfugnerville. In Taylor the plan is to close downtown and a railroad overpass with a car explosion set for Robinson Park. For Lockhart, the Caldwell County Courthouse will be used. The cities are part of a chase between the Autobots and Decepticons through Central Texas. Filming is expected to start in June (location unknown) with production hitting Detroit, Chicago, Hong Kong, and other unknown locations in China.

Speaking of Chicago, Bay was spotted scouting locations in the city on April 25th. Locations he and his crew checked out include LaSalle Street near Randolph Street up to the Board of Trade Building. Not sure what can gleam from that story wise but mostly reinforces that TF4 is coming soon to the area. Thanks to Wynton R. for the links.

Bay: Redesigning Every Transformer for TF4

In an interview with MovieFone to promote Pain & Gain, Michael Bay spoke about Transformers 4. To talked about why he started doing the franchise and changing his mind on moving on to do TF4. Main piece of information is he said "I'm literally redesigning every character, top to bottom. There's a [story] reason why their redesigned..." It will be interesting to see what those redesigns look like. The Transformers comments are below, the full interview is at MovieFone.

Well it’s more about how you approach these films, like for example, on “Transformers,” you already have the built in audience.
See, I was not a fan of Transformers [at first]. Hasbro was talking about giving me a whole Transformers story, and I’m like, “If I can do this really real. If I can make them believable, I think I could have something here.” I’m not a Hollywood guy. My friends are normal guys. I’ve got this guy from Texas. He’s like, “Mike, that “Transformers” [movie] seems like a dumb idea.” And I’m like, “Yeah, I know, but just give it a second.” And then I showed him the shot of the Scorponoks jumping out of the sand with Tyrese [Gibson] running. He saw that image and he went, “I see what you’re doing.” You’ll always have haters, but the last movie? One-hundred-twenty million people saw that movie. There’s still a lot of fans of that franchise. And I’m a huge Transformers fan now, and I protect that brand.

The Rock Almost Cast in Transformers 4

It turns out that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, was offered the lead role in Transformers 4 before Mark Wahlberg. This was confirmed via a tweet during a online Q&A.

Michael Bay offered me Transformers, but I was unavailable due to Hercules. Then Wahlberg was offered the role. #RockTalk @nadydi
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) April 26, 2013

It seems that Bay really like working with both actors on Pain & Gain to offer one, then the other a role. Makes you wonder if The Rock had set yes, would Bay have figured out a different role for Wahlberg. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Why Transformers Are So Complicated?

In two previous articles Gizmodo provided a few details on how Transformers are made. While there they took the opportunity to ask why Transformers have been so complicated to transform for the last few years. The answer, of course, is because of the Michael Bay movies.

"The reference style is so phenomenal in the movie tie-ins, we got more complicated than we had to," Lamb says. "Right now, there's a big effort to get back to simple; and more than simple, intuitive."

What was the issue, exactly? "Bay and ILM (Industrial Light and Magic) work it pretty well," Lamb says, "But they also do some magic." In the movie, a car's parts could fold into infinitely small sections. Tiny pieces of interlocking plastic? Not so much.

Transformers 4 Heading to Hong Kong in September

Twitch.tv has posted an (unconfirmed) overview of the shooting schedule for Transformers 4. It seems the movie will have an almost five month shooting schedule from June to October. The production will be in Chicago and Michigan for June, July and August plans not specified, then in September head to Hong Kong, and then mainland China in October as part of the co-production agreement between Paramount and the country. The site said that Michael Bay is interested in shooting in Sham Shui Po district west of North West Kowloon which is described as "one of the oldest and most densely populated areas of Hong Kong." Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Transformers 4 Extras Casting Call Found

A casting call for Transformers 4 has been posted on Explore Talent that is seeking 35 extras total for the film.  The ad marks the location as "nationwide" so no specifics on when or were. Nor does it specify what the roles are for but it reads like typical background extras with no lines.  The info ("details" is too strong a word to describe the lack of info) can be found here.

A little warning for those thinking of applying, think of casting call ads as the equivalent of a craigslist ad...assume its a scam until proven otherwise so on guard, be safe, don't provide money, and don't go anywhere alone. If your gut says something isn't right, then listen to it. (via Seibertron)

Jack Raynor On Being Cast Transformers 4

Back in January, actor Jack Reynor was announced as the other lead actor with Mark Wahlberg in Transformers 4. In one of the first interviews with the actor as he promotes "What Richard Did" at the Tribeca Film Festival, he talked a little bit about joining TF4 with The Hollywood Reporter. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link

In New York to film the Vince Vaughn-led comedy Delivery Man, Reynor returned to LA when Hurricane Sandy hit the city and temporarily shut down the film's production. "That just lent me enough time to get into the Transformers race," he says.

"All I knew was basically, Michael was going to make Transformers 4 and we were going to chat about me being in it," he says of the meeting. "We didn’t chat about making a fourth or any of the motives behind it. But personally, I think there’s a lot more to be done with it. There’s a whole new direction to take it in, and a lot more to explore in that universe, and I think we’re going to make a definitive step away from the previous movies, and this is going to be a lot of fun and I’m incredibly excited."

"The reason I got into acting is, it’s just about character, there’s a love of creating characters," Reynor professed. "I love portraying them on screen. Fame never was a feature in it, I don’t really care about making a whole lot of money, just I’d like to be comfortable, and that’s all I care about."

How Transformers Are Made Part 2

Gizmodo has published the second part that looks into how Transformers and other Hasbro toys are created. The first part focused on the design phase while the 2nd part looks into the machinery and people that build and paint the prototypes that become the mass produced toys sold everywhere. Below are highlights, the full article is here.

Highlights
- Most prototype parts created 3D printers that essentially "grow" the needed part from CAD designs.
- Perfactory, normally used by jewelers, is used to create the parts and accessories that require a lot of detail like etchings in swords and the like.
- Custom built for Hasbro, the Z-Corp Spectrum is used to create designs from a powered resin type material and capable of producing articulated parts based on inputted designs.

Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye #16 Preview

Issue #16 of More Than Meets the Eye hits stores Wednesday. In the last issue Overlord went on a rampage, killing several Autobots (but not as many as would have thought). This issue picks up after those events as the Lost Light passengers deal with the dead, their own feelings over the fight and what to do next. A preview of the issue can be found here.

Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye #16
James Roberts (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Milne, Nick Roche (c)
AFTERMATH! The battle for the Lost Light is over. As the survivors bury the dead, one Autobot begins a secret journey that will change everything. This special issue marks the beginning of “Remain in Light”—the game-changing finale to the first More Than Meets The Eye mega-story arc!
2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio • FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Bay Comments on Shooting Locations for TF4

In two separate articles, Michael Bay discussed Transformers 4. Nothing was revealed about the story but he mentioned that he starts filming in Detroit in late May/early June, that GM cars will continued to be part of the franchise, and that there are plans to film in Hong Kong.

Also here is the last version of the TF4 Autobot logo created by Pixel Rally's Jeffrey Marshall. Just like the previous two, these are not official logos from Hasbro or Paramount but maybe they should consider how good they look. All three of them can be found here in various sizes. Make sure to give him and his site credit if use them elsewhere.

Detroit Free Press:

“I’ll be there in a month and a half,” says the director of his plans to shoot a big chunk of the fourth “Transformers” movie in metro Detroit.

“We’re going to be shooting at stages, we’re going to be shooting around the city, we’re going to be shooting at GM a bit,” says Bay, who knows the city well and credits it with having a lot of good locations.

Hasbro's Built a Bot Poll, Vote Now

As part of the 30th anniversary of Transformers, Hasbro has posted a build a bot poll that fans can vote on. After the characteristics of the character have been voted on by fans, Hasbro will continue to update the site with designs as the fan chosen bot is created. To vote, click here. The poll closes on May 5 with results revealed at the San Diego Comic-Con.

Hasbro, Inc. is kicking off the Thrilling 30 with the Fan Built Bot Poll! For the 1st time ever, a fan vote will decide an all new Transformers character. Vote daily here at Transformers.com to have a hand in the bot building!

Once the votes have been tallied, come back to Transformers.com to see the designers at work. Sketches, images and more will be revealed as the new bot character comes to life.

Add the bot to your collection! The new Transformers character will be revealed, named and forever added to the Transformers world including an appearance in the "Thrilling 30" product line, an IDW storyline and more!

New Transformers Prime Starts on May 17th

For the next four weeks, The Hub is airing encores of the first four episodes of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters. After that a new episode (and I assume more) will start airing beginning May 17th with "Project Predacon" which Zap2It describes as "The Decepticons launch a new scheme to clone an army of beasts." Basically this is the episode where the rest of the Predacon toys...mean characters will start entering the show's final season.

How Transformers Are Made Part 1

Gizmodo has posted their first part that looks into how Hasbro and Takara design and manufacture Transformers. Today's part looks into the design and initial mold creation phase with Transformers Senior Design Director Josh Lamb and Product Designer LEnny Panzica at Hasbro's Providence, RI headquarters. Tomorrow's article will into detail on creating the master mold and manufacturing of the toys for wide scale distribution. Below is highlights from the article but worth reading the whole thing here. I keep hoping that every time a new Transformers movie is released on home video they would do a extra feature on how the toys are made. Maybe interest in articles like this will encourage them as the disciplines required to create a single toy is pretty substantial.

Highlights:
- Hasbro already designing toys, including Transformers, for 2015 (so guessing the TF4 toys are already through or at least near end of mold creation).
- To generate design ideas for Beast Hunter toys, previous TF toys and Zoids parts where painted grey (so can focus on shape, not color) and "frankensteined" together to see how new configurations might work and look like.
- The ideas are then sketched out to conceive a potential final product including robot and alt mode, features and more while being aware of the engineering that will be required for the transformation

China Getting Transformers 4 Casting Reality Show

The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that Paramount Pictures is going to use a reality show to help cast some of the Chinese characters of the film. This seems to be part of the co-producing agreement that the studio signed with the Chinese government. The title of the show is "Transformers 4 Chinese Actor Talent Search" were the pool of contestants will be whittled down until the winners are two professional actors and two non-pros. The reality program is for the Chinese market only and set to start in June 2013 with the judges being Sid Ganis (former head of Oscars), TF4 producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura, casting director Denise Chamian, and Paramount exec Megan Colligan. Exactly what these roles are, how much screen time they will be or how China will used in the film remains unknown (and probably will for a while). Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Michael Bay Profile in the NYT

As part of the promotional swing for Pain & Gain, Michael Bay spoike with the New York Times about his career up to this point. There are a few mentions of Transformers as a whole but nothing all that informative about TF4. Below are the Transformers specific portions of the article but to read the entire profile, click here.

As Mr. Bay watched ILM’s preliminary animation for his latest “Transformers” movie, blocky images of giant robots trading blows in the middle of a city, his visceral reactions, often with variations on the word “cool” — “That’s pretty cool”; “We can do something cooler”; “Maybe you could get a nice slice through his face” — seemed to signal approval.

On the first “Transformers,” Mr. Bay said, he was chided by Steven Spielberg for allowing actors to improvise too much.

“Steven said to me, ‘Michael, I would like you to shoot something that’s in the script,’ ” he recalled. “And I was like, ‘Steven, this is how I work.’ ” Even if 80 percent of what he shot was terrible, Mr. Bay said, “You’re going to get 20 percent that’s gold.”

Since then, Mr. Bay said, Mr. Spielberg has come to see things his way. “Steven’s like: ‘You’ve got to have the funny. That’s part of the brand of ‘Transformers.’”

“I want to chill out for a little bit,” after the next “Transformers,” he said hesitantly. “I think. Smell the flowers a little bit.”

Transformers 4 Prep Has Started in Michigan

Transformers 4 is getting ever close to the start of principal photography sometime in late May as the Michigan Motion Picture Studios has begun to build sets for the film. The 535,000 square foot facility in Pontiac, MI is just one of many locations that Transformers 4 will be filming at. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

As for this very cool Autobot logo with a touch of color, it was created by Pixel Rally's Jeffrey Marshall. It is not an official logo from Paramount or Hasbro. If use it for something, make sure to him and his site credit. A few his alternate designs can be found here.

"They are in the process of pre-production right now," Wenson told MLive Detroit, when asked if Bay's film crew is in town. "They are filming in several other states, too. The majority of their shooting, I believe, will be done in the state of Michigan.

"In addition to working on our stages, they’ll also be working throughout the state at different locations. We’re really excited that they’re here. We’re looking forward to the opportunity to service another film.”

Everything Wrong with Transformers In 7 Minutes or Less

A new edition in CinemaSin's "Everything Wrong..." series turns its snarky but funny eye on the first Transformers film. Can't help but notice how many of its observations are spot on.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #16 Preview

Tomorrow Transformers: Robots in Disguise #16 brings an end to the first major story arc of RID as its Autobots vs Decepticons once again for the fate of Cybertron as Megatron leads his forces against Bumblebee and his weakened forces. Fortunately Ironhide and the Dinobots have arrived to turn the tide, assuming they can get past Devastator. A preview of the issue can be found here.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #16
John Barber (w) • Andrew Griffith (a) • Griffith, Casey Coller (c)
FINAL BATTLE! The leadership of Cybertron will be decided once and for all! It’s all-out war against the forces of MEGATRON! Will the Autobots wrest control from their attackers—or will the DECEPTICON flag fly over Cybertron forever? Heroes will fall, and nothing will stay the same.
2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio • FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Stanley Tucci Cast in Transformers 4

At CinemaCon, Michael Bay announced that Stanley Tucci (The Hunger Games and huge list of movies) has joined the cast of Transformers 4 along with Mark Walhberg, Jack Reynor, and Nicola Peltz. Bay also suggested there is another young actor announcement to come. CinemaCon is an annual convention of theater owners in Las Vegas which the studios use to preview their slate of summer movies and future plans. Thanks to Wynton R. for the heads-up.

Transformers 4 to Shoot in IMAX Format

IMAX has announced at CinemaCon that they and Paramount have a five picture deal to shoot film sequences using IMAX cameras, including Transformers 4. Standard film is shot in 35mm while IMAX is 70mm. The last time Michael Bay filmed in true IMAX was for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. It is suggested only on some sequences will be shot in real IMAX, not the entire film. While Transformers: Dark of the Moon was shown in IMAX theaters, it was not naively filmed that way. Transformers 4 is already planning on being shot with Real 3D cameras.

In the video interview (below) with Collider, Michael Bay spoke about returning to the IMAX format for "showcase scenes" as TF4 will be the first to use the next generation of smaller, better IMAX 3D digital cameras. He also said he would not being shooting in 48FPS (as used by The Hobbit).

Bay and Wahlberg Talk Working Together Again on TF4

In the below clip from MTV to promote Pain & Gain, Michael Bay and Mark Wahlberg briefly discussed Transformers 4. No real spoiler were revealed except that the movie would continue the war of Autobots vs Decepticons and that its "fresh" and "not revisiting a lot of the same territory." The clip is after the break. Thanks to Margarita for the links.

Bay on TF4: "Chase from Hell"

While its not much to go on, Michael Bay provided a micro-tease for Transformers 4 that starts filming in a month or so. He told ComingSoon that the plot of the movie is a "Chase from Hell." Hopefully more details might emerge as Bay makes the rounds to promote his film Pain & Gain that is coming out on April 26th. Feel free to speculate in the comments exactly what he means with his tease.

As for the logo attached to this post it was created by Pixel Rally's Jeffrey Marshall. It is NOT an official new logo from Paramount or Hasbro even though it looks so awesome I understand if others might think so. If grabbing it to post elsewhere, please make sure to give him and his site credit. Also thanks to Jeff for the new banner at the top of the blog. He provided a few other Autobot versions that I will also post in the future.

IDW July 2013 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for July 2013. Five comics and two trades coming out that month. The Monstrosity mini-series is the same as the current digital only series just in printed form. Of note is it seems that Robots in Disguise might be working towards bring some Beast Wars aspects into the franchise with the mention of Waspinator. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, Locke & Key, and more click here.

Transformers Prime 3.04 Rebellion Clip and Promo

Friday on The Hub is the next new episode of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters. The fourth episode of the season, and possibly the last for a few months, is titled "Rebellion". The last episode ended with Optimus Prime still down with Wheeljack Smokescreen trying to help him while the rest of Team Prime (along with Ultra Magnus) seige the Decepitcon fortress. Below is a clip and promo for the episode. If had not had a chance to watch the previous two episodes, you can find them at Hubworld. If you don't mind knowing how the episode ends, click here.

Transformers 4 Passes on GM Plant

A few weeks ago it was reported that Transformers 4 production team was scouting the GM Weld Tool Center in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Now Michigan Live is reporting the team has decided to pass due to scheduling conflicts. The plant is closing in July but apparently production needed to to use the site before then. Of note is a comment about there was also some discussion about leaving some equipment behind for part of the film." It seems that while TF4 needed the space minus employees getting in the way, it also wanted the industrial equipment for whatever the set would have become. Bay loves his big machines so be interesting to see what site they chose instead. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Transformers Regeneration One #90 Preview

The next issue of Transformers Regeneration One hits stores this Wednesday. Issue #90 continues as Scorponok's plan to take over Cybertron by converting Autobots into Decepticons continues with only the Dinobots standing in his way. A look at hte cover and the first few pages can be found here.

Transformers Regeneration One #90
Simon Furman (w) • Andrew Wildman (a) • Wildman, Guido Guidi (c)
TOO LITTLE—TOO LATE! As Scorponok’s Dark Reign comes ever closer to spreading right across Cybertron, Grimlock launches a desperate counterstrike, in the face of almost innumerable odds. Does the Dinobot commander really have one last ace up his sleeve, or does his “plan” amount to a glorious—but doomed—last stand?
2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio • FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Prime 3.03 Prey Clips and Promo

Tonight on The Hub at 7:30pm EST is a new episode of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters called "Prey" when "A new Autobot arrives as the Decepticons unleash the ultimate hunter." The previous episode ended with the arrival of Ultra Magnus and Predaking with Shockwave siccing the dangerous Decepticon on Wheeljack. Below is a clip from the ending of the last weeks episode along with promo for Prey. If had not had a chance to watch the previous two episodes, you can find them at Hubworld.

Upcoming Episodes
04/12 - Rebellion (3.04) - Team Prime wages war against the Decepticon citadel.

Transformers 4 Officially Heading to China

Paramount has issued a press release (below) confirming a rumor from last year that Transformers 4 has entered a "Cooperation Agreement" with the China Movie Channel and Jiaflix Enterprises. It sounds like a similar agreement that Hollywood has entered into with the company for filming portions of Iron Man 3 and The Wolverine. The latter film even has a special cut of the film that features several China stars just for the China market. The reason for the deal is the $165 million box office Dark of the Moon earned in the country and Paramount is hoping that number will be higher for TF4 if its got portions of the film actually made in the country. China talent will be cast in the film but too early to know how the extent of their roles nor how much of the film will actually be produced in the country.

Last November I stated a few reasons for deals like this and the danger it puts in any crew sent to China. Suffice it to say that money and blackmail have a lot to do with it. It will also be interesting to see if Bay and the cast are willing to head over to China to film scenes or if that side will be a 2nd unit only production (so mostly supporting actors or non-actor specific scenes will be filmed there). I think the phrase "Cooperation Agreement" is pretty telling as I suspect it allows for a great deal of latitude on exactly how much Hollywood actually films in the country and what portions of the film use or are set in the country. At the end of the day the Chinese government's primary goal is to keep their propaganda machine going for their own citizens so if none of the main unit films there, I doubt they could care less as long as they are able to insert their own propaganda into the film as desired.

Entire Transformers Trilogy Filming This Summer?

An update on Michael Bay's official website Shoot for the Edit has a new post on April 1st that simply says "Transformers 4, 5, & 6 will begin filming back to back starting June 2013. More details to follow." The site admin Nelson later commented in the forums saying, "When was the last time you saw us joke around here?" when asked if the post was part of April Fools Day.

Now that the day is over, the post is still up and there has not been the usual note indicating its a joke. I delayed on posting about it because it reads like an April Fools joke. I am still not convinced it isn't. There are several reasons to think it is fake. Money is one.

Transformers Spotlight - Trailcutter Preview

Tomorrow bring Transformers Spotlight - Trailcutter one-shot to store. The issue focuses on the G1 character on board the Lost Light. I assume this takes place before Overlord's attack in MTMTE #15 mainly because most Spotlight issues tend to be essentially flashbacks. A preview of the issue can be found here.

Transformers Spotlight: Trailcutter #1
James Roberts (w) • Matt Frank (a) • Frank, Livio Ramondelli (c)
STEALTH ATTACK! Trailcutter has a problem: the Lost Light has been taken over by the Decepticons—and no one else seems to have noticed! Can the Autobots’ defense strategist singlehandedly see off an army of infiltrators? And even if he does, will it convince his crew mates that he's got more to offer than kind words and forcefields?
2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio • FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Shia LaBeouf Back (Sorta) for Transformers 4?

Fanshare.com is reporting that Shia LaBeouf is returning to Transformers 4. He would not be playing Sam Witwicky from the first three movies but instead play the voice of an unknown Autobot character. Not quotes, sources or other information is provided so take this with a grain of salt. It is something I could see Shia and director Michael Bay doing for giggles as it would be easy enough to change up his voice just enough to avoid making the audience think "Sam" or even just have Bumblebee use it to fill out his radio spoken sequences. Or its just an April Fool's Joke (after all the best one have a possibility of truth to them). Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Transformers 4 Filming Starts at End of May

At a the premiere of G.I. Joe: Retaliation that just came out, Transformers and Joe producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura answered a few questions about the movie including the suggestion of a G.I. Joe vs Transformers movie. He said that he starts on Transformers 4 "at the end of May."

On a not really related note, he also said while he would be open to a G.I. Joe vs Transformers movie if the story was right, he doubts it will happen. So do I, the budget alone would make it non-starter even assuming a great story that could juggle that many characters could be written.

Transformers: Prime 3.02 Scattered Promos

The second part of the opening story for Transformers Prime Beast Hunters season 3 airs tonight on The Hub. Called "Scattered", the episode is described as "The Autobots search for signs of each other, but start to lose hope while the Decepticons welcome a key player (Shockwave) to their ranks. A win for Wheeljack may ultimately lead to an Autobot defeat." Below is a few vids to promote the episode. The first two are bios for Bumblebee and Predaking. Also MTV Geek interviews the voice of Optimus, Peter Cullen as he discusses the final season.

Upcoming Episodes
04/05 - Prey (3.03) - A new Autobot (Ultra Magnus) arrives as the Decepticons unleash the ultimate hunter (Predaking).
04/12 - Rebellion (3.04) - Team Prime wages war against the Decepticon citadel.

Transformers 4 Production Spotted in Pontiac, MI

According to a tweet from Matt_Boyd, "Yellow signs for a production named 'E7' off the highway near Raleigh Studios in Pontiac, Michigan." The yellow "E7" signs where used to mark the production locations of the three previous films (pic example from ROTF) so not a leap to assume this is for Transformers 4. Since its still early for principle photography to start, its likely pre-production prep but 2nd unit could be getting an early start. (via OLV)

Transformers 4 Female Lead Cast (Update)

A tweet from the official Shoot for the Edit's twitter account @S4TE indicates that Nicola Peltz (The Last Airbender, Bates Motel) has been cast as the female lead in Transformers 4.

The tweet was a reply to a previous tweet from S4TE about bringing Megan Fox back and the reply was "No. Female lead has been cast." If true her role would be the daughter of Mark Wahlberg's unnamed character with Jack Reynor as her unnamed race car driving boyfriend. Her name came up last year several times for the role. Now this information really isn't official since the twitter feed isn't from Michael Bay himself but from his site admin who uses it to promote Bay's various projects. Still the website has been reliable with information in the past. It is about as close to verified as you can get without a press release or post from Bay himself. Thanks to Sam N. for the heads-up.

Update: MichaelBay.com has just added a post that simply says "Welcome Nicola Peltz to Transformers 4" with a picture of the lovely new lead. I just hope she is a better ambassador for Transformers then previous leads who acted like they were embarrassed to be in the movies. At the very least she will maintain the Bay tradition of having ladies that are very easy on the eyes.

Transformers 4 Filming in Real 3D

Michael Bay's Shoot for The Edit twitter account has confirmed "#transformers4 to be filmed in 3D." Since this is Bay I am taking the small leap that this means with real 3D cameras so no post-production conversion that can be hit or miss depending on money budgeted for it. The news isn't exactly a surprise since Transformers: Dark of the Moon was also filmed in 3D and the 3D craze remains for Hollywood with no signs of going away.

Transformers 4 Scouting GM Plant

Now that we know that Michigan and the Detroit area is one of the states that Transformers 4 production will be filming the question now is what locations. According to MLive.com one of them might be the General Motors Tool Center in Grand Blanc Township. The plant is going to be shut down in July so after that it would give Bay the freedom to what he wants without daily operations getting in the way. TF4 crew scouted the locations but no contracts have been signed so this just one of probably many places that Bay and company are looking at. Thanks to Sam N. for the link.

Transformers Prime Returns Tomorrow, Movie Announced, Cast Interview

Tomorrow is begins the final season of Transformers Prime on The Hub at 7:30pm. The premiere episode titled "Darkmouth" picks up where the season 2 finale ended with Optimus buried in the remains of the now destroyed Autobot base and the rest of the Autobots separated from each other. It also turns out that Hasbro plans to end the series with a little bit of a bang with an animated movie called "Transformers Prime Beast Hunters: Predacons Rising". From the press release:

The eagerly anticipated conclusion of the CG animated Daytime Emmy® Award winning series will make its network television premiere as a Hub Original Family Movie. A 90-minute epilogue to the final season wraps up the series that chronicles the epic battle between the Decepticons and the Autobots in their mission to defend Earth and one day restore their home planet of Cybertron. The Hub Original Family Movie is produced by Hasbro Studios. The final season of “Transformers Prime Beast Hunters” begins on Friday, March 22, 7:30 p.m. ET.

Since a new season that means a few interviews with the cast, hit the links below to watch videos with each.

Transformers Verified for Detroit with Plot Details

The Michigan Film Office has issued a press release verifying that Transformers 4 is returning to the state to film. Based on the $20 million tax credit on the rather precise figure of $81,933,992 that is expected to spent filming TF4, it indicates that the production will spend a significant amount of its schedule in the state. Previously Transformers and Transformers 3 production spent a few weeks in Detroit area filming various scenes. With the release is an interesting new description on the plot of the film.

As humanity picks up the pieces, following the conclusion of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Autobots and Decepticons have all but vanished from the face of the planet. However, a group of powerful, ingenious businessman and scientists attempt to learn from past Transformer incursions and push the boundaries of technology beyond what they can control – all while an ancient, powerful Transformer menace sets Earth in his crosshairs. The epic adventure and battle between good and evil, freedom and enslavement ensues.

I suspect Unicron fans will be all over the last two sentences.

Transformers: More Than Meets The Eyes #15 Preview

Tomorrow brings Transformers: More Than Meets The Eyes #15 to stores and the expectation is a bit of an Autobot bloodbath for the crew of the Lost Light. Overlord has escaped his hidden prison on the ship and has decided to kill every Autobot in sight. Considering he is more powerful then Megatron, the odds don't look good that most will survive the encounter. Click here to view a preview of the first few pages of the issue.

Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye #15
James Roberts (w) • Alex Milne (a) • Milne, Nick Roche (c)
DEATH IN THE RANKS! Rodimus and his crew are confronted by the enemy within—and not everyone will survive the encounter. Everything has been building to this: all-out war aboard the Lost Light!
*2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers Sponsoring Formula D Racer

Wrecked Magazine is reporting that Hasbro's Transformers will sponsor Otto Graven and his "Ultimate 86" Formula D Scion FRS vehicle.  While not stated, chances are this will be the vehicle that Jack Reynor's race car driving character will have for Transformers 4. It might also clear a copyright hurdle as all the vehicles used in Transformers 4 would have to be signed off on by their corporate creators. (via TFW2005)

Transformers 4 Returning to Chicago

While a Detroit shoot still has not been confirmed, it seems Reel Chicago has been able to verify that Michael Bay and his crew is heading to Chicago once again for Transformers 4.  According to the site,  "Neither the production schedule nor cast has been completed, although Chicago location scouts have been hired and the L.A. production staff is expected to land here en masse in June and reportedly will shoot from July through October."  Back in January Mark Wahlberg had slipped and said he was house hunting in the area for a four month rental.  Bay had previously filmed in Chicago for Transformers: Dark of the Moon and had nothing but praise for the city. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

IDW June 2013 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for June 2013. Five comics and two trades are being offered that month. Of potential interest is The Transformers 30th Anniversary Collection hardcover that collected various TF comics over the last 30 years. Sadly the solicitation doesn't specify which ones (around 10-12 issues based on the 320 page count) so hard to tell if worth the $50 cover price (or $28 if pre-order from Amazon). For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, Locke & Key, and more click here.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #18
John Barber (w) • Atilio Rojo (a) • Rojo, Casey Coller (c)
SURVIVOR'S GUILT! After the shattering events of the past two issues, we can't tell you who's alive and who's dead. But we will hint that one CYBERTRONIAN has to reconsider her worldview—while she comes face-to-face with some old enemies. We won't mention any names, but she's in for the fight of her life!
*2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio
FC • 32 pages • $3.99
Expected in-store date: 6/5/13

Transformers Returning to Detroit?

A Michigan Live article seems to indicate that the city of Detroit wants Transformers 4 to film there. I think. To call it "reporting" would be a gross exaggeration as the article asks if Transformers 4 will be filming in the city but the Michigan Film Office spokeperson Michelle Begnoche replied "There is nothing I can confirm at this time. I will certainly keep you posted if that changes!" The chances of Michael Bay returning to Detroit is relatively high compared to most cities since he filmed there for Transformers and Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Also the film takes place four years after the last movie so still in the same continuity. Any case filming is expected to start this summer and since Bay likes to keep his films in the US as much as possible, it will be interesting to see what locations emerge as production progresses. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

New Transformers Prime Trailer with Ultra Magnus

A new Transformers Prime Beast Hunters trailer from Singapore reveals the introduction of Ultra Magnus to the Prime universe. The trailer is to promote the return of the new season that starts this Friday in that country. TF Prime will start back up here in the States next Friday.

Transformers Regeneration One #89 Previews

Wednesday's new comic day brings Transformers: Regeneration One #89 to newsstands and digital (assuming Comixology is fixed by then). Regeneration One is the continuation of the Marvel Transformers story line but set in our "present" where Megatron has destroyed the Earth and Prime finally killed him for it. Meanwhile on Cybertron, Scorponok uses his new tech to turn Autobots into Decepticons while Grimlock tries to find the rest of the Dinobots to put a stop to the rampage. A preview of the issue can be found here.

Josh Duhamel Returning for Transformers 4?

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Josh Duhamel suggested that Michael Bay is considering having him reprise his role of Captain Lennox for Transformers 4. TF4 takes place 4 years after the end of Transformers: Dark of the Moon and the character didn't die in the film so no reason can't be recalled to service depending on the story needs. Besides Bay loves to work with the US military for his films, so there is likely going to be a strong military aspect to TF4 similar to the previous films so finding a spot for Lennox, either in a major role or just a fun cameo, would probably be very easy to do.

The happy news earned a congratulatory call from Michael Bay, who directed Duhamel in the first three Transformers films, and is currently readying a fourth. And while the franchise is looking to reboot -- "They're going younger," the 40-year-old actor says -- that doesn't rule out a cameo.

"[Michael] said he wants to put me in it someplace. I don’t know if he was just saying that because he had me on the phone and he felt obligated or what, but you know what? I got to do three of those. It changed my career, it changed my life getting to be a part of something that big, so I’m grateful for even doing the first three of them," Duhamel said.

Linkfest - More Beast Hunters

More Transformers are coming, official or otherwise. For 3rd party makers, combiners seems to be the main theme while Takara has truly embraced the Masterpiece line and Hasbro is moving ahead with a full Beast Hunters line despite the short final season of Transformers Prime.  Hasbro finally revealed what Masterpiece Acid Storm looks like while Takara shows off blurry images of MP Prowl and Bluestreak.  Add to that lots of reviews of upcoming Beast Hunters toys, two members of TFC Toys Uranos combiner, next Throttlebot combiner member, and more.

Masterpiece Update - Hasbro MP Acid Storm | Hasbro MP Soundwave | Takara Prowl and Bluestreak
This year is just chock full of Masterpiece releases once include by the Takara and Hasbro plans. Already this year has seen the release of Takara's Soundwave toy with two of his cassettes (review below). On top of that have MP-10B Nemesis Prime 2.0 cab (March), MP-12T Tigertrack (July), MP-16 Frenzy and Rumble (April), and now a look at MP-17 Prowl (August), MP-18 Bluestreak (October) and later MP-19 Smokescreen (September). On top of that can add Hasbro's official images Masterpiece Acid Storm which is a repaint of Starscream 2.0 in a military green and black look while Soundwave is identical to the Takara release only it will come with all five cassettes instead of separate two pack releases.

Latest Transformers Prime Promos

The final season of Transformers Prime returns on March 22 and The Hub has started introducing more promos for the premiere (previous one here). The first video provides a pretty concise summary of the first two seasons of TF Prime to get you caught up, the second one introduces the new "stealth" look of Bumblebee and the last provides a tease of Predaking (but isn't new footage).

Transformers Bumblebee, More Than Meets The Eye #14 Previews

Wednesday is new comic book day and with it is two new Transformers books. Transformers Spotlight - Bumblebee returns to Earth to look at a point when Bumblebee first took over as leader of the Autobots after Optimus Prime handed over the reigns in a crisis of confidence. The other issue is Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye #14 which turns its eyes to Overlord, currently a prisoner on the Lost Light...except almost no one board knows he is there. A first few page preview of Bumblebee is here and MTMTE #14 is here.

New Transformers Prime Trailer, Cancellation Confirmed

IGN has officially confirmed (in case the comments from a Senior VP was not enough) that Transformers Prime has been officially cancelled after season 3. The final 13 episodes for Transformers Prime Beast Hunters start airing on March 22nd at 7:30PM EST. The current plan is to air four news episodes each week then starting on April 19 repeat those same four with added "Autobits" ("behind-the-scenes trivia with exclusive in-picture commentary designed to create an immersive viewing experience") and then resume with new episodes in May. Considering Hasbro plans on releasing a wave of Beast Hunters toys for the Christmas holiday season, I would not be surprised if the season gets split in two with around 7 episodes before summer and the rest in early Fall with the season 3 DVD release in late October, early November. New trailer below.

Two Deleted Transformers: The Movie Scenes

From The Spacebridge Facebook page, below are two re-created deleted scenes from 1986's Transformers: The Movie from production storyboards. The first scene shows how Devastator was finally taken down after the Dinobots failed to while providing a bridge to what Megatron was looking at when Optimus Prime engaged him for the now most quoted fight sequence in Transformers history. The second scene explains why Ultra Magnus' (brief) death seemed oddly delayed due to being literally pulled apart by the sweeps' energon ropes. The two moments make for nice new insight on an old favorite. If you have never seen Transformers The Movie, I think its up on the various streaming sites. Worth checking out if only to so can see where so many of today's Transformers quote references and desired story plots (Unicron) come from. (via Unicron.com)

Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Premieres March 22

In a press release from The Hub with their March programming of new shows, we now have an official release date for Transformers Prime Beast Hunters, the third and final season as Friday, March 22nd at 730pm EST. The premiere episode airs after a mini-marathon of season two episodes from 3:30 to 7pm EST. If you recall the second season ended with Megatron destroying the Autobot base with Optimus Prime still in it as the rest of the Autobots retreat.

Upcoming episodes:
03/22 - Darkmouth, NV (3.01) - While Optimus struggles to survive after Megatron’s destruction of the Autobot base, the separated members of Team Prime try to reconnect.
03/29 - Scattered (3.02) - The Autobots search for signs of each other, but start to lose hope while the Decepticons welcome a key player to their ranks. A win for Wheeljack may ultimately lead to an Autobot defeat.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #14 Preview

This Wednesday at comic books stores everywhere, the current Cybertron story arc starts to reach its conclusion as a fully restored Megatron enters the field with the might of the Decepticons once more at his command. Add to that Prowl switching sides, the Cybertron government led by Bumblebee crumbling and the Autobots in disarray and the stage is set for Megatron to finally achieve his goal of conquering Cybertron. A preview of Transformers: Robots in Disguise #14 can be read here.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise Ongoing #14
John Barber (w) • Andrew Griffith (a) • Andrew Griffith, Casey Coller (c)
FALL OF THE AUTOBOTS! The day the AUTOBOTS hoped would never arrive... is here. CYBERTRON is burning, BUMBLEBEE’s government is crumbling, and the end is near! Sides are chosen... and heroes fall.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

The AllSpark Returns for Transformers 4?

Is The Cube, aka the device that gives Transformers life, returning to the big screen in Transformers 4? Possibly, at least based on an NPR article about set decorators whose attention to details helps bring a set to life. One aspect of the article focuses on Transformers 4 set decorator Rosemary Bradenburg (image left) who along with Paramount archivist Randall Thropp (jokingly recoiling in fear) look over the hero AllSpark Cube prop used in the first Transformers film. Based on below it sounds like it just be used as a easter egg for fans but maybe more. (via TFW2005)

Sometimes, objects have to be made for a film by Hollywood's many artisans. Some of these pieces are housed and protected at the Paramount Studios Archives in Hollywood. There's a faux Russian nuclear launch device and a telephone from Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol, along with various items from the Transformers films, including an 8-inch cube made to look metallic — it's really a wooden box — and patterned with wavy lines and mysterious symbols. It's called the AllSpark Cube, introduced in Transformers (2007) as the key to the robot alien civilization.

Rage of the Dinobots #4 Preview

The final issue of Transformers Prime: Rage of the Dinobots is hitting stores tomorrow. The issue concludes the post War for Cybertron / pre Transformers Prime Beast Hunters story of the Dinobots as they seek revenge of Shockwave and deal with his Predacons. The story of the TF Prime Dinobots will continue in May with the Transformers Prime Beast Hunters comic from IDW. The preview can be found here.

Transformers: Prime—Rage of the Dinobots #4 (of 4)
Mike Johnson & Mairghread Scott (w) • Agustin Padilla (a) • Ken Christiansen (c)
DINOBOT WAR! GRIMLOCK leads the DINOBOTS against SHOCKWAVE’s troops—and the results won’t be pretty! With SWOOP under SER-KET’s control, it’s an all-or-nothing battle of DINOBOT versus PREDACON—with the fate of CYBERTRON hanging on every punch, blast, jab, and bite! Don’t miss the senses-shattering conclusion to this mind-blowing miniseries!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

IDW May 2013 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for May 2013. Five comics and two trades are being offered for the month. The month brings us the first issue of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters that focuses on Grimlock and the Dinobots. Robots in Disguise re-introduces Shockwave to the IDW universe while it looks like More Than Meets The Eye might have started focusing back on the Knights of Cybertron mission. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, Locke & Key, and more click here.

Transformers Prime: Beast Hunters #1
Scott & Mike Johnson (w) • Agustin Padilla (a) • Ken Christiansen (c)
BEAST HUNTERS! They were there when CYBERTRON fell—but what happened to the DINOBOTS for the past few thousand years? Here’s a hint—GRIMLOCK and company haven’t been sitting around and relaxing! The time is now—the place is CYBERTRON—and the recipe is ACTION!
*2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio
*1 subscription variant cover for comic book store subscribers
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Linkfest - G1 Recreations

Toy Fair showed us a great upcoming line up of toys coming out months from now but time to focus on the more immediate future with lots of new Beast Hunters and 3rd part offering in the pipeline along with a few interesting tie in products. More Beast Hunters products are starting to hit shelves so lots of reviews to look at for them. On the third party front we have a look at a not Stunticons line-up, review of not Shockwave, not Jumpstarters, not Fall of Cybertron Omega Supreme and more. Masterpiece Soundwave is out so a review for him. New not toy products include a expensive coin set from New Zealand and a Optimus Hockey Jersey. Basically as the links and reviews show, the next year is going to be a wallet buster.

Causality not Stunticons - T-Bone
From Fansproject, their next series is the not Stunticons of CA-09 Car Crash, CA-10 T-Bone, CA-11 Down Force and CA-12 Last Chance. Apparently they are designed to merge into not Menasor but have not seen that gestalt form or what these four look like in appendage mode. Even if don't merge, each looks like be great additions to a collection. The average prices is $60 with Car Crash out in February, T-Bone in March and no dates on the rest.

Transformers Prime Cancelled After Beast Hunters Story Arc

An article from the magazine Kidscreen has verified that Hasbro is ending Transformers Prime with the 13 episode Beast Hunters story line. From AllSpark's Vivid Redshift page scan:

As for Hasbro's established stable of series, which drive the programming on its US joint venture network The Hub, the 13 episodes of Transformers Prime Beast Hunters due to launch this year represent the final chapter of the Transformers Prime story. It has grown to encompass 65 half-hour episodes that continue to roll out around the world. Look for a 75-minute Transformers Prime Beast Hunters movie to hit DVD shelves in Q4.

But that's not the end for Transformers. [Hasbro's SVP of International Distribution and Development Finn] Arnesen says a "new iteration of the animated TV series" is slated for delivery in late 2014, which looks like it might be shaping up to be the year of Autobots, given that audiences are already expecting the fourth live-action blockbuster in July.

Sadly this doesn't come as a surprise as I called this back in October when news first broke of the shortened seasons. Where prime time television considered 100 episodes to be the "magic number" for syndication (Fringe's season 5 renewal is thanks to this line of thinking), for whatever reason cartoon's "magic number" threshold is much lower at 52. The season 3 renewal was probably only because of the Beast Hunters angle to fill the gap to Generations (fall 2013) and Transformers 4 product line (spring 2014). So enjoy it while it last (trailer here) and start speculating on what Hasbro plans after TF4.

Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Teaser Trailer, Press Release

Hasbro has released the first trailer for Transformers Prime Beast Hunters along with a press release officially announcing their new Beast Hunters line. Sadly no specific release date, just "this Spring" but it provides a good look at Predaking in action. As for the press release (both below), nothing new that wasn't already revealed during Toy Fair.


Press release:

Transformers: Regeneration One #88 Preview

Tomorrow brings Transformers: Regeneration One #88 to stores. The story shifts from a destroyed Earth to Cybertron as Scorponok begins his push to take over in the absence of Optimus Prime. The cover and first few pages of the issue can be found here.

Transformers: Regeneration One #88
Simon Furman (w) • Andrew Wildman (a) • Wildman, Guido Guidi (c)
WAR IN THE CITY! Anarchy reigns on the streets of Iacon as SCORPONOK’s grip tightens further, and those AUTOBOTS still willing and able to resist look to their absent leader—who is on an endangered list all of his own. Beneath the surface of CYBERTRON, HOT ROD runs for his life, locked on a collision course with his maker, PRIMUS!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Toy Fair 2013: Fall of Cybertron Metroplex and More Revealed

Yep, that is a two foot tall War for Cybertron Metroplex. From Hasbro, not a 3rd party creation or Takara. 2014 is the 30th Anniversary of Transformers and Hasbro has made it clear they are taking it seriously with their upcoming slate revealed Saturday at the 2013 New York Toy Fair. In addition to Metroplex, there are new triple changers, bunches of Beast Hunter toys, new wave of Kre-O toys, IDW inspired toys and bunch more. Basically for Transformers fans both new and G1, the next year is going to fun. Below is a bunch of links to galleries and videos about all that is coming.

Metroplex
Based on his Fall of Cybertron appearance. Only member of the Generations line Titan class. At 24" tall, largest Transformer Hasbro has ever created, a touch taller then even Fortress Maximus. Cost is $125, hit retail in August, has light up eyes, flip down visor that controls diameters of eyes, sounds, talking phrases (from the game), and scaled for Legends class figures.
Toy Fair floor: Gallery 1 | Gallery 2 | Gallery 3
Hasbro Official: Gallery 1
Videos: One | Two (same as below)

Toy Fair 2013: Hasbro's Investor Event

While New York is getting hit with a blizzard, today was also the first day of the 2013 New York Toy Fair. All the toy makers and sellers gather to show off their plans for the upcoming year including Hasbro who held their Investor Event today. The event covered all of Hasbro's properties but on the Transformers front they high-lighted their plans regarding Beast Hunters, a new line called Construct-Bots, and a new Transformers TV series. Below are the highlights but TFW2005 has the full slide show with more details here and a Beast Hunters Guide book here.

Highlights:
- Transformers Prime officially being re-branded as Transformers: Beast Hunters, CEO Brian called it "completely re-inventing Transformers" and will drive the marketing of the franchise until next year when TF4 takes over.
- Transformers: Prime is broadcast in 182 countries
- Chief Marketing Officier John A Frascotti: "At Hasbro Studios we’ve developed entirely new Beast Hunters Television Series and we’ve also developed wide array of digital assets that will leverage throughout the year."
- Planning lot of "Lifestyle Licensing" based on Beast Hunters so expect clothes, hats, bags, and so forth with BH related imagery.
- Construct-Bot still transform but now parts of the figure can be swapped out for other parts so can create robot and alt modes of own design (more images here).
- 8 Kre-O Beast Hunter sets planned
- New Transformers TV Series is for China only to air on China Central Television
- No mention of Transformers: Generations plans but that is more of a sub-line so not part of their main marketing push

ILM VFX Supervisor Jeff White Returning for Transformers 4

While we have not heard much on the Transformers 4 front, it doesn't mean things are not in motion. In another interview with Collider, ILM Visual Effects Supervisor discussed his team's Oscar nomination for The Avengers and commented briefly on starting pre-production on Transformers 4. No details provided but still interesting to read his perspective on the franchise. His interested in his take on working on The Avengers, the entire interview is here.

Where do you go from here? What are you working on next?
WHITE: I’m starting pre-production on Transformers 4, which has some really exciting stuff in it. And then, we’ll see what the future holds. Certainly, if the opportunity came to work on the next Avengers, I’d definitely jump at it.

When you work on sequels, do you always get nervous about topping the last film?
WHITE: We worked so hard to get to where we were on The Avengers 1. Now, we’ve got this basis built for The Hulk and we learned a lot, along the way. We’re actually really excited about all the things that we could push forward on, in the future. It is always fun that, with the Marvel projects, everyone seems to want to one-up one another. With Iron Man, he already had two great ways of putting the suit on and taking it off, but for The Avengers, Joss came up with two entirely new ways that were even cooler. That’s certainly part of any sequel. It’s gotta be bigger and better. But, the great thing about Joss is that it won’t just be a bigger film to be bigger. He’ll really dive deeper into the characters. That’s what’s so fun about working with him.

MTMTE, Megatron Spotlight and Rage of the Dinobots Previews

Today brings three new Transformers comics to stores as IDW finishes its January solicits with More Than Meets the Eye #13 and Rage of the Dinobots #3 while kicking February with Megatron Spotlight issue. In MTMTE #13, the adventures on the Lost Light continue with its goofy but well executed humor. A preview of that issue is here.

In Megatron Spotlight, its a flashback to ..uh not really sure when in continuity with a story that gives insight on why Megatron just doesn't finish Starscream off for his constant attempts to take over the Decepticons. Preview here.

Last is Rage of the Dinobots that continues the story of the Dinobots vs Shockwave after the Autobots abandoned Cybertron in War of Cybertron video game story arc. And that preview is here.

di Bonaventura: TF4 "Completely Different"

Transformers producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura spoke with MTV about Transformers 4 while at the premiere of Side Effects. He spoke about his hope that Bay returns to complete the 2nd Transformers trilogy by directing Transformers 5 and 6. He also reiterated Bay's statement that the film isn't a reboot but "it's completely different." It should be interesting to see what the final result is. Considering that the Transformers cartoon side goes through a redesign (and reboot) about once every five years, the movies are schedule for the same. The idea of a redesign without reboot is a intriguing one and hope designs start leaking soon.

"I can't speak for Michael. I hope he would [direct the next two]. It would be great, but it's certainly something in our design of this," he said. "It's going to be an ongoing story, so the possibility, again, as long as the audience shows up for us, there's a lot of story still to be told."

"There's a lot of new elements. I wouldn't say we've completely changed this world, and yet it's completely different," he said. "There are new characters, new situations. I don't think we revisit a single location. Michael really has a great way of approaching this thing."

On Shia LaBeouf cameo: "I don't believe that would be true. You never know. Things are not set in stone, and if something evolved and that came naturally. That wouldn't be the intention," he said. "The intention is this is new world, with new characters, with Mark Wahlberg leading us. It's a different movie, but a lot of the things that you love about the other ones are joining the ride."

Bay: Everything Redesigned for Transformers 4

After weeks of silence, there is finally some Transformers 4 news. It isn't exactly new news though as Michael Bay repeats his previous comment that TF4 is not a reboot but "we've redesigned everything from top to bottom". This redesign might explain why Mark Wahlberg considered the movie a reboot even though it takes place four years after the end of Dark of the Moon. The interview with Forbes is part of him promoting the Doritos Super Bowl Ad contest that will give one of the five finalists a chance to work with Bay on the set of Transformers 4. The full interview is here, TF4 related portions below. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

What will the winner actually get to do on the Transformers 4 set?
Replace me as director. No, we’ll see who the person is and depending on what he is interested in being, a producer or a director, we’ll try to tailor the job. It’s all hard work when you’re working on a movie.

Will that change the way you do anything on Transformers 4?
We’re going to start off smaller. There’s a brand new cast. To freshen the franchise we’ve redesigned everything from top to bottom. The history of the first three movies is still there, we start four years later and there’s a reason why we’re meeting a new cast.