Transformers: Prime Launch Date Announced

Hasbro and Discovery Communications have announced their plans for the launch of The Hub that is basically their version of Nickelodeon. The official launch date is 10/10/10, pretty easy to remember. As expected the next Transformers cartoon is part of launch plans. While the name of "Transformers: Prime" has still not been officially confirmed but two programming blocks called Kids Prime and Family Prime pretty much does. The full rollout is explain at Broadcasting Cable, the TF related aspects below.

The Hub, intended to connote "the center of things," will mount at least two shows from Hasbro's production studio. The company will serve up the studio's series My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic, based on the popular toy, and Transformers, already a successful toy-tomovie franchise. Many shows, however, will be acquired until The Hub establishes its footing.

A block called Kids Prime will follow in the afternoon, while shows like Transformers will greet kids after school. Family Prime is aimed at enticing adults to watch with their children.

War for Cybertron With More Nimoy? (Updated)

Update: Activision, distributor of W4C, is reporting the casting information below is false, so it appears that Leonard Nimoy is not rejoining the Transformers universe.

We just wanted to let you know that the rumor you posted regarding the voice actors in Transformers: War for Cybertron is false. We will be providing additional information on voice actors soon. The only confirmed voice actor is Peter Cullen at this time.

Original article:
In a preview of Transformers: War for Cybertron, AusGamers.com listed a few names as voice actors for the upcoming game including an actor that has not visited the Transformers-verse in about 25 years.

Some familiar voices were being thrown about the demo, including Peter Cullin as Optimus Prime. Starscream sounded spot on, however, he's not voiced by Chris Latta, but rather Doug Parker. Megatron is voiced by James Remar with Leonard Nimoy coming in to flesh out Zeta Prime, among a host of other well-known voice actors.

Leonard Nimoy is probably most known as Spock in Star Trek but he also voice Galvatron in Transformers: The Movie and makes occasional guest appearances on Fringe. His most recent video game work was reprising Spock to narrate the opening of Star Trek Online. Zeta Prime is the leader of the Autobots when the game opens, at least until he has a confrontation with Megatron.

In addition, new screenshots of the game have popped up on Netherland's website Inside Gamer that includes a potential look at Shockwave and Starscream's Cybertronian jet mode, Their gallery of images can be found here.

Last bit of War for Cybertron news is related to the upcoming toy line. Click here to view the packaging, complete with bios, for W4C Bumblebee and Optimus Prime. The bio for Bumblebee doesn't reveal much but apparently the game designers took a page from the movie as 'Bee no longer is able to talk, making him a "silent warrior" and "fearless infiltrator of enemy lines."

If the bios are not enough, there is also a sizeable gallery of W4C Optimus Prime that shows off his robot and vehicle mode from multiple angles. Can't say I am a fan of the vehicle mode but I do like the robot mode. That gallery can be found here.

Transformers #5 Preview and Nefarious Tease

This Wednesday brings Transformers #5 to local comic book stores and Bzzurkk has another preview with all three covers and first five pages. The story continues the Transformers attempt to survive on a Earth as the humans seek out to hunt them down or destroy them. The preview can be found here.

Transformers #5
Written by Mike Costa with art by Don Figueroa and covers by Don Figueroa and Andrew Wildman

OPTIMUS PRIME and Spike Witwicky have a chat that could define the future of AUTOBOT and human relations! But lest you think it’s all talky-talk, back at RODIMUS’ camp something big happens, something very big. A game-changing event in IDW’s TRANSFORMERS, with a Don Figueroa double-page spread that has to be seen to be believed!

In addition, long time Transformers comic writer Simon Furman provided an update on the script for Transformers: Nefarious #3 (continuation of story post Revenge of the Fallen). If you don't mind reading a spoiler that gives away part of issue two, then click here to read his write-up. The issue will reveal a little bit of movie trivia with "the (US) comic book debut of another 'movie' character that didn't make the final cut!" I do believe this issue will hit stores in May.

Transformers 2 in Six MTV Movie Awards Categories

Just when you thought the award shows ended with the Oscars, we get a reminder that there is one more to go. The MTV Movie Awards has opened up voting for nominees through April 9th for your favorite movies and stars in many categories.

From these votes a short list of nominees will be determined which will open a final round of voting from May 11th to June 5th. The winners will be announced live on MTV on June 6th at 9PM EST. From what I can tell the list seems to be based on movies released between March 2009 to March 2010 (only way to explain Hot Tub Time Machine's inclusion). This year Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen has a chance in six categories. Also added the other categories Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf are listed in case want to spread the Transformers love around.

Transformers 2 specific categories
Best Movie
Best WTF Moment - Isabel Lucas, pretender moment of turning into a Decepticon
Best Ass Kicking Star - Shia LaBeouf
Best Female Breakout Star - Isabel Lucas
Best Female Performance - Megan Fox
Best Male Performance - Shia LaBeouf

Support Transformers stars categories
Best Kiss - Amanda Seyfried & Megan Fox (Jennifer's Body)
Best Fight - Megan Fox vs Amanda Seyfried(Jennifer's Body)
Best Villain - Megan Fox(Jennifer's Body)
Best WTF Moment - Megan Fox, projectile vomits(Jennifer's Body)
Global Superstar - Shia LaBeouf

Oddly, Transformers was not included in the Best Fight category yet Jennifer's Body was. I don't think nominees are limited to human actors (beside voice work counts). On the bright side, MTV does allow for "write-in" votes at the bottom of the page for each category so nothing stopping you from making your own choices. Personally, the Forest Fight of Optimus Prime (Peter Cullen) vs. Megatron (Hugo Weaving), Starscream (Charlie Adler) and Grindor strikes me as worthy.

To vote for Transformers: ROTF and other favorites, click here. The website does require you have or create an account and you can only make one choice per category so I guess some will have a hard choice to make.

While voting, make sure to give Betty White some love for Best Comedic Performance. The possibility of her winning and appearing at the show just strikes me something worth seeing. Thanks to Katie for the link.

Power Core Arielbots and EZ G1 Devastator Video Review

Two new video reviews of upcoming Transformers toys. The first is another Power Core Combiner review from Peaugh, this time covering the Arielbots 5-pack. Like the Combaticon set, this one is a core scout sized figure with four non robot mode legend sized figures. So far I like the idea of the Power Core Combiners but the execution doesn't really do it for me.

The other review is for the EZ Collection Devastator in Generation One colors. This item is currently a Japan exclusive but the movie based version can be found at Wal-Mart for $32.99 if remember right.

War for Cybertron Prequel Book Planned

Amazon has posted a new listing for "Transformers: Exodus: The Official History of the War for Cybertron" hardcover. This is the first hardcover that I am aware of that has ever been released for Transformers. The last book written for the Revenge of the Fallen movie adaptation. The novel is written by Alex Irvine and as the title suggests, this seems to be a Hasbro sanctioned prequel novel to Transformers: War for Cybertron video game that is expected to come out in late June. The current price is $17.82 but I suspect that will go down once get closer to the release date.

The product description:

For twenty-five years the colossal battle between Megatron and Optimus Prime has captivated Transformers fans around the world. Yet the full story of the conflict between the two most famous Transformers—everything that happened before Optimus and Megatron arrived on planet Earth—has always been a mystery . . . until now. Here, for the first time told in its entirety, is the thrilling saga of Optimus and Megatron before they were enemies, before they even knew each other.

“Freedom is every Cybertronian’s right!” After Megatron utters these immortal words, the caste-bound planet of Cybertron is rocked to its foundations. Megatron, an undefeated gladiator thug, gives voice to the unspoken longings of the oppressed masses—and opens the mind of an insignificant data clerk to possibilities previously unthinkable.

Long before becoming the honorable Optimus Prime, Orion Pax is a mere office underling, an unlikely candidate to answer an outlaw’s call to revolution. But Orion is determined to meet this defiant enemy of all that Cybertron stands for, no matter what he has to do, or how many laws he has to break.

What happens between Orion Pax and Megatron forever changes the destiny of all Transformers. This gripping, action-packed novel reveals all the loyalties and treacheries, trust and betrayals, deadly violence and shining ideals, as well as the pivotal roles played by other characters, including Starscream, Sentinel Prime, Omega Supreme, and one of the thirteen original Primes, the last link to Cybertron’s glorious Golden Age.

Discover how meek disciple Orion Pax becomes the fearless leader Optimus Prime; follow the tantalizing clues about the lost Matrix of Leadership and the lore surrounding it; find out why the two allies fighting a corrupt regime suddenly turn on each other, and what triggers their epic war. Transformers: Exodus provides everything fans ever wanted to know about one of the fiercest rivalries of all time.

It appears the novel is not only inspired by the game but it appears to incorporate story beats that were created via the Generation One cartoons (Orion Pax, Prime as sign of leadership, etc), the movies (13 original Primes), and the IDW comics (class system, Prime as civil servant, etc).

IDW June Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for June 2010 which includes three Transformers comic books and three trades. Transformers: Bumblebee isn't coming out that month for some reason. If your interested in the books, just let your local comic book store know. For the full details of plans, click here. Thanks to Katie for the link.

Transformers #8
Mike Costa (w) • Javier Saltares (a) • Don Figueroa, Saltares (c)
Spike Witwicky commands a unit specially trained to take down Transformers; he has single-handedly brokered peace between the U.S. and the Autobots. But there are secrets in his past that could jeopardize all of that. Good thing Spike's not the kind of guy who would recklessly endanger the entire world to settle a personal score, right?
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Ironhide #2
Mike Costa (w) • Casey Coller (a) • Marcelo Matere, Coller (c)
Stranded on modern-day Cybertron, Ironhide discovers he's the only functioning life-form on the planet. Oh, except for the Swarm. Writer Mike Costa continues to put the fallen (now resurrected?!) Autobot through some strange paces, with stunning art by Casey Coller.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Nefarious #4
Simon Furman (w) • Carlos Magno (a) • Brian Rood, Magno (c)
Even SOUNDWAVE's monumental patience has limits, and at last he goes fully on the offensive-staging a direct assault on The Initiative's base of operations. But the mysterious human organization always seems to have an extra trick up its sleeve, and this latest one's a real jaw-dropper! By Simon Furman and Carlos Magno.
FC • 32 pages • $3.99

Transformers: Allspark Almanac, Vol. 2
Jim Sorenson, Bill Foster (w) • Various (a) • Marcelo Matere (c)
The AllSpark Almanac II captures the magic of the most whimsical TRANSFORMERS series ever with a wondrous examination of this amazing universe. This volume is packed with behind-the-scenes sketches, interesting facts, production artwork, and musings from the characters themselves. Relive the thrill of the final season of Animated and learn what might have been had the show continued. Hard-core fans and neophytes alike will find this an essential tome. You won't want to miss it!
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 220 Pages • 8.5" x 11" • ISBN: 978-1-60010-683-5

Transformers, Volume 1: For All Mankind
Mike Costa (w) • Don Figueroa (a & c)
It's been three years since the devastating events of ALL HAIL MEGATRON. The Earth has been rebuilt, the AUTOBOTS are in hiding, and the next great era in the TRANSFORMERS saga is about to begin! Critically acclaimed writer Mike Costa is joined by superstar artist Don Figueroa for IDW's biggest book of the year-the launch of the first ongoing TRANSFORMERS title in five years!
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 152 Pages • ISBN: 978-1-60010-684-2

Transformers: The Covers
Various Artists (a)
Presenting all the TRANSFORMERS covers from the Robots in Disguise complete run of comics! This oversize hardcover features the art that your childhood memories are made of by such luminaries as Bill Sienkiewicz, Michael Golden, Mark Bright, Herb Trimpe, Don Perlin, Bob Budiansky, Tom Morgan, Jose Delbo, Pat Lee, Don Figueroa, James Raiz, Guido Guidi, EJ Su, Alex Milne, Ashley Wood, and others!
HC • FC • $39.99 • 120 Pages • 10" x 13" • ISBN: 978-1-60010-685-9

Power Core Combiner Video Reviews

I have no idea how he does it, but Peaugh continues to get the latest Transformers toys months before they hit retail shelves. This time he is reviewing three sets of Power Core Combiners, providing the first real look at the new toy line.

The first review is for one of the 5-pack Combaticon (Bombshock) set. As the video shows, it turns out the set is essentially one scout class toys with 4 legend type figures that do not have a robot mode. The combined robot is a pretty good looking toy but not sure if worth the estimated $20 price tag. The 2nd and 3rd videos shows off the 2-pack sets with Searchlight with Backwind and Smolder with Chopster. OK figures, still not sure worth the price (around $10).






Overall, the video reviews seem to demonstrate that the basic idea behind Power Core is one scout sized figure that can interact with two types of legend sized figures (mini-con). Those two types of mini-cons are either the weapon type or the combiner type. The weapon class has a robot mode, the combiner class does not. Any scout figure plus 4 combiner mini-cons results in one combined robot. This idea does seem scalable (say deluxe class combining with Scout) and indicates a bunch of possibilities. For now though I think I will take a wait and see attitude towards the line.

Update: Peaugh posted a third Power Core view so made slight alterations to text and posted the additional review.

Bay Not Sold On 3D

While it was assumed that Transformers 3 in 3D was a forgone conclusion thanks to Avatar, that may no longer the case. In an article from Deadline New York, both James Cameron and Michael Bay have both indicated they are not fans of the post-production conversion process that the studios have been using lately to turn 2D films into 3D such as Clash of the Titans, and Alice in Wonderland with more in the pipeline. Below are choice quotes, the full article is here. Thanks to David and NHLfan for the link.

Avatar’s James Cameron told [Deadline] recently. "Now, you’ve got people quickly converting movies from 2D to 3D, which is not what we did. They’re expecting the same result, when in fact they will probably work against the adoption of 3D because they’ll be putting out an inferior product.”

“I shoot complicated stuff, I put real elements into action scenes and honestly, I am not sold right now on the conversion process,” says Michael Bay. Paramount and DreamWorks are pressuring him to allow Transformers 3 to be dimensional-ized after the fact, because there simply isn’t enough time to shoot with 3D camera and post the film between now and its July 1, 2011 release date.

Bay investigated shooting at least some Transformers 3 footage with 3D cameras, but found them too heavy and cumbersome for the fast pace action scenes he shoots. Bay feels the process of sending out 2D film for 3D conversion is more problematic and pricey than studios are admitting. Too often, companies selling 3D retrofitting services arrive with a sharp demo reel, but leave with a deer-in-the-headlights look when Bay gives them his own footage to convert, on a tight deadline.

“I am trying to be sold, and some companies are still working on the shots I gave them,” Bay said. “Right now, it looks like fake 3D, with layers that are very apparent. You go to the screening room, you are hoping to be thrilled, and you’re thinking, huh, this kind of sucks. People can say whatever they want about my movies, but they are technically precise, and if this isn’t going to be excellent, I don’t want to do it. And it is my choice.”

Said Bay: “I’m used to having the A-team working on my films, and I’m going to hand it over to the D-team, have it shipped to India and hope for the best? This conversion process is always going to be inferior to shooting in real 3D. Studios might be willing to sacrifice the look and use the gimmick to make $3 more a ticket, but I’m not. Avatar took four years. You can’t just shit out a 3D movie. I’m saying, the jury is still out.”

“This is another example of Hollywood getting it wrong,” Cameron said. “Sony says, we’re doing Spider-Man in 3D.’ The director doesn’t say, `Hey, I want to make the movie in 3D.’ The studio says, `You want to direct this movie? You’re doing it in 3D, motherfucker!' That’s not how it should be. I’ve tried for the last seven years to get filmmakers excited, and they all hung back while Pixar and DreamWorks did animation and me and a couple others did live action. We prove the point, and now filmmakers are being told to make their movies in 3D.”

According to the article, the cost of the conversion is not minor with an average cost of $100,000 per minute. Assuming TF3 is around 140 minutes (like previous films) that means an additional $14 million at least. With the 3D format on the cusp of going mainstream with 3D TVs, 3D Blu-ray and even portable video games (just announced Nintendo 3DS) it seems the studios are determined to use it to eke out every dollar possible.

Avatar does prove that if a film plans on it, a CGI heavy action film can be made but Transformers 3 simply doesn't have that kind of time with 15 months to get a completed product out. My understanding is the conversion process takes about 3 months. That means that Bay, ILM and Digital Domain would have to have a completed film by March of next year to meet the July 1st, 2011 release date. Considering that both TF1 and 2 were being tweaked quite literally past the world premiere, I don't think it is feasible in the time frame provided. Of course if you throw enough money at a problem, time becomes less of an issue, but is Paramount willing to make that kind of commitment for box office results that currently only have two data sets (Avatar and Alice), one of which was an unlikely to be repeated phenomenon?

Transformers 3 Set Report

Based on the pictures below, it appears that pre-production in Transformers 3 is in full swing with a TF3 set being built at the Playa Vista soundstages. The location has been used before by director Michael Bay for the previous Transformers films.

Here is what SuperHeroHype's source reports:

Well, Transformers 3 is gearing up there. I've attached pics of the sign I stumbled upon at the warddrobe department just to offer a little proof. When I peeked inside, posters for both Transformers were hanging up and clothing racks had tons of military gear hanging from them. Above one rack it read "Iranian Army." Above another rack it read "Ukranian Army" and above a third rack it referred to "Matt" ("Matt's costumes").

There's some big stuff being built here, man. One end of the soundstage had some wooden structures. Another area they were chopping away at styrofoam to create a rocky terrain. And the crew was rolling along something that looked like a giant gear. I breezed on by the "model" shop and, while I couldn't get a good look inside, there were a lot of moon reference photos and NASA moon lander pics. I could have sworn I saw a Transformer, again, didn't get a good look.

To summarize, something may happen on the moon, there could be a character named Matt, and once again the story makes a visit to the Middle East (as indicated by an extras casting call). Thanks to David for the link.

Transformers Linkfest

$1,600 Bumblebee Costume
In the April 2010 issue of Popular Science, they wrote about three Transformer inspired costumes that are prettty awesome and detailed. Especially the Bumblebee one created by Greg Adler. The costume took around 400 hours to build. It is built around a wooden and backpack frame, with a mike helment, carpet tubes for arms, drywall stilts with hinges for the legs and more. The How 2.0 article also shows off a TF inspired toy from a cellphone and transforming Humvee. Thanks to Greg for the article page and scan. Click the image for a larger size to read the articles.

Power Core Combaticons and Bombshock
This gallery gives you a look at the upcoming new line of Transformers that is heavily based on fan favorite combiners both past and present. Too early to say if this new take on combiners is good, but the images indicate a lot of potential fun.

Power Core Smolder
Similar to above gallery but highlights the interchangeability of the combiners by swapping Onslaught (or whatever the middle figure is called) with Smolder (fire truck). I guess in theory any deluxe plus four mini-cons have the potential to create one five-figure combiner.

Masterpiece Grimlock (Hasbro version)
Gallery of images of MP Grimlock that is hitting Toys R Us (if remember right) sometime this summer. The Hasbro version has a few tweaks from the Takara version including a crown, clear sword, blunt teeth and sword and a few less accessories (but nothing major).

Deluxe Ironhide
A look at the new, smaller version of Ironhide that, until now, was Voyager and Legends class. The new figure comes with a mini dude that fits in the back in vehicle mode.

New Legends Class Toys
Gallery of new Legends class toys in packaging for the movie based Transformers line (that drops ROTF). Most are repaints of previous releases.

Transformers 3: McDormand, Malkovich and More (Updated)

Michael Bay has dropped by his official forums and posted a very informative update on the progress with Transformers 3 including new casting additions, shooting locations, and a new Autobot car.

Hey, it's been a long time since I've posted. Just been a little busy.

Transformers 3 has been going very well. We are going to shoot in LA, Chicago, Washington DC, Florida, Texas, Africa, Moscow, and China. On the talent front, we just locked in Frances McDormand and John Malkovich. Both amazing actors I've always wanted to work with. We also just got Ken Jeong, he is the super funny actor stuck in the trunk from “Hangover” and the Doctor from “Knocked Up.”

We start shooting pre-shoots in about one month.

I also was at a Ferrari charity event this week raising money for a hospital being built by Ferrari in Haiti. I announced that night the newest Autobot to join Transformers: the Ferrari 458 Italia.

I also want to thank everyone on this site that donated to the Make -A-Wish charity. We raised $20,000 which I will personally be matching. This is a great charity where they make wishes come true for kids who are very ill. We have had many Kids from Make-A-Wish visit us on our Transformers sets and this time we will be posting video of their visits on Transformers 3.

Michael Bay

I assume these additions will be part of the voice cast but that is far from verified. John Malkovich and Francis McDormand have worked together before on Burn After Reading. McDormand might also seem familiar from Fargo and Almost Famous. Malkovich has done many movies playing both villains and heroes including In the Line of Fire, Con Air, and Being John Malkovich just to name a few. I would be shocked if Ken Jeong, aka Senor Change on Community, isn't doing a voice as the Bay has shown he enjoys working with comedians, especially the one that have improv skills. Thanks to NHLfan, Janson and Katie for the link.

Update: According to gossip blog Deadline Hollywood, it appears that Francis McDormand and John Malkovich will appear in the flesh, "McDormand will play a big role, the National Intelligence Director. Malkovich plays Shia's character's first boss." Thanks to Katie and Kris for the info.

Transformers 3 Script Completed?

In an interview with MTV during ShoWest in Las Vegas, Josh Duhamel once again confirmed his next project is Transformers 3 and confirmed the script is finished. "I read it yesterday," he said of the script. "I think that after reading it, I was really pleasantly surprised and happy. They did a great job."

From MTV:

Duhamel's comments confirm what Hasbro CEO Brian Goldner told MTV News earlier this year. "You're going to see that great core mythology brought to the fore, and Michael [Bay] is hard at work at making this a reality and we're very excited about it," he said.

Does that mean we might catch a glimpse of the Dinobots, those classic robots who morph into dinosaurs? Duhamel paused when asked that question before admitting, "I can't tell you."

Considering that production is probably still a few months away, it wouldn't surprise me if Josh read a finished draft of the film but that further tweaking is still ongoing. Thanks to Christopher for the link.

Duhamel Returning for Transformers 3

Just in case you had concerns, Josh Duhamel confirmed to SuperheroHype that he will be reprisal his role of Captain Lennox for Transformers 3 when production starts this summer. From the site:

Duhamel told us today at the Las Vegas ShoWest convention that he met with director Michael Bay yesterday, that the script is done and they're preparing to start filming in the summer. So yes, he will indeed be back alongside Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox and Tyrese Gibson.

Thanks to Carlo for the link.

Transformers Linkfest

Time for another linkfest of Transformer toys and drawings with some amusement thrown in for giggles.

Transformers Leader Prime and Starscream in Packaging Gallery
Eight images that show off the two toys in their new "Revenge of the Fallen"-less gold packaging. Have to admit the hook alone almost makes me seriously consider buying Optimus.

Battle Ops Bumblebee in Packaging
Look at this new version of Bumblebee that is slightly larger than the general leadership class but smaller than his ultimate version. Overall appears to be a very solid toy that will cost around $60 when released later this year.

Don Figueroa's Transformers Artwork
The link above is a nice tight look at the gallery of images that great Transformers artist has posted or just check out his complete gallery of posted images at deviant art by clicking here. Figueroa has been a TF artist for nearly a decade going all the back to when the comics were being published by Dreamwave and along with Pat Lee is responsible for much of the look and designs we see for the G1 toys and comics today.


Starscream Ghost Version in Packaging and Video
Click the link for a look at the Masterpiece Ghost Starscream that is pretty slick looking, if pricy (around $140). Below are videos found by Siebertron.com that show off a 360 degree look of the toy which is scheduled to come out in July.



Animated "Lego" Transformers
Another gallery that shows off the lego-ish Animated Bumblebee and Optimus Prime, complete with a lego head.

Rifftrax of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Part 1 | Part 2
Purely for your amusement, a kind of Mystery Science 3000 breakdown of ROTF by the Rifftrax crew. Some lines of note: Demolishor getting on his wheels: "DAMN IT, I had gone straight! I was helping to build a friggin children's hospital! But NO, a Decepticon can't reform! Screw you guys, I'm just gonna run amuck!" or Demolishor getting on his wheels: "DAMN IT, I had gone straight! I was helping to build a friggin children's hospital! But NO, a Decepticon can't reform! Screw you guys, I'm just gonna run amuck!" Thanks to Christopher for the link and info.

Transformers 3 Extras Casting via Craiglist? (Updated)

Update: It appears the Craigslist ads are not real, at least not affiliated with Dreamworks or Transformers 3. Prompted by user in comments, I called the number and reached an operator who read from a script, tried to get contact information and directed me to sign up to ActorsOnSet.com website for a "one time fee" of $98.90. If you have to pay someone to find you a job while they are supposedly getting paid to fill jobs, that strikes like the classic definition of a scam. Rather then pull the post or the ad below, leaving it up in case people Google the phone number and can get additional information they need to decide for themselves on what to do.

If going by the listings on LA Craigslist, it appears that Transformers 3 production has begun to look for extras for filming. No date is specified on when filming may begin. Extras are those people you see walking and talking in the background of scenes that are seen but rarely ever heard.

Here is an example ad:

It's Amazing,Spielberg is back to work again.

Release Date: July 1, 2011
Studio: DreamWorks Pictures (Paramount)
Director: Michael Bay
Screenwriter: Ehren Kruger
Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Tyrese Gibson
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Plot Summary: Bay and Spielberg are working on the plot for the next chapter in the Transformers saga due in theaters 2011

Pre Casting Starting, ***Contact Casting 1-877-464-9526*** For Background Scene work. Extras Are needed. No Experience Req. Union and Non-Union OK.

Location: Los Angeles
Compensation: $100-$300 a day
This is a part-time job.
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Phone calls about this job are ok.
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

I do not know anything about how extra casting works so no idea if using Craigslist is the norm or not. A quick Google on the provided phone number doesn't provide any clues on legitimacy one way or the other. If you are in the LA area and curious I just recommend caution. Remember the goal is to hire and pay you for your time so if they ask for money it is probably a scam.

Behind the Scenes of War for Cybertron (Updated)

High Moon Studios have updated their YouTube channel transformersgame1 (news to me they even had one) with a new behind the scenes video for Transformers: War for Cybertron. The video has some behind the scenes look at their art and creation of some TFs, a look at the studio, and includes some new footage not seen in previous trailers and interviews. Thanks to NHLfan for the links.

Update: Tformers has posted 7 gallery image from the game here. It includes a look at Ratchet, Jetfire, and Ironhide.

Transformers: Nefarious #1 and Drift Preview

Two new sneak previews for Transformers comics. One is for the Transformers: Nefarious #1 which will hit local comic book stores this Wednesday. The mini-series takes place in the movie universe, post Revenge of the Fallen as Soundwave investigates the resurrection of Ravage (as shown in Tales of the Fallen #5). The covers and first five pages can be seen at Bzzurkk. Thanks to Katie and Christopher for the link.

In addition IDW Editor in Chief Chris Ryall has published a sneak peak for the four issue mini-series Transformers: Drift that is scheduled for August and September. Drift is a new character that was created specifically for the comics by IDW back in early 2009 as part of their G1 story continuity. Hasbro has indicated they are creating a toy based on the character. The peak at the first issue cover and a page of interior art can be found at his blog RyallTime.

Another War for Cybertron Video Interview

The face of Transformers: War for Cybertron, Game Director Matt Tieger once again talks about the game, this time to GiantBomb.com. Much of the information was covered in a previous interview, but there appears to be a few new tidbits and game footage as Tieger talks about goals they tried to achieve in creating the game.

TF: G1 Awkening Review

Kotaku.com has posted a quick review of the iPhone game Transformers: G1 Awakening that was released a few weeks ago. Main reason for bringing this back up though is Glu has released a free demo version of the game to give you a chance to decide if its worth your $5. Click here to learn more about the free version.

Loved
Fan Service – Anyone who holds the original Transformers as the pinnacle of the franchise is in for a treat here. The game looks and sounds like it fell right out of 1985, with the transforming sound, original character designs, even the bios you used to find on the back of the toy boxes. Best of all? The battle animations, which render the opposing characters in full 3D, and for an iPhone game, look great.

Autobot Strategist – This insistence on being a true Transformers experience carries over into the game design, and actually works in the title's favour. You're only ever in control of a handful of units at any given time, and each unit is normally a specialist, so it really pushes your tactical thinking. Ratchet is the game's only medic, for example, so you need to think carefully where you're going to send him, as you can't just build another one to complement him. And if you do need to call in reinforcements to swell your ranks a little? Well, Autobot city Metroplex is always on-hand to serve as a mobile base, able to call in reinforcements like Ironhide, Sideswipe, Prowl and Grimlock.

Hated
It's A Mobile Game – Awakening is a port of a 2008 mobile phone game, and it shows. Glorious battle sequences aside, the game's presentation is poor, especially the animation of units on the main battle screen, where in robot mode the characters don't even move. They just shuffle around, legs immobile. For a license like this on a more powerful platform like the iPhone, it could have done with a little extra work.

GDC 2010 War for Cybertron Interview

The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is occurring now in San Francisco. The conference is a time when the various gaming companies will preview some of their upcoming releases including High Moon Studios which showed off some of Transformers: War for Cybertron. In the interview below from Gametrailers.com, Game Director Matt Tieger discusses the gameplay elements, the civil war, and transformation abilities. A new piece of information is there will be three player co-op mode, dedicated jet levels and tried to include as many Transformers as could that matched the gameplay (Warpath was an example).

Video Games | Transformers: War for Cybertron | GDC 10: Civil War Story Interview

XBox 360 | Playstation 3 | Nintendo Wii

Dunn Negotiating for Transformers 3

The Hollywood Reporter has posted that Kevin Dunn is "in negotiations to reprise his role as [Ron] Witwicky in the third "Transformers" film." Key word in this case is "negotiations" as it gives rise to the possibility that a return may not occur. Doubtful but strange things can happen when an issue of money is involved. Assuming it all works out, this indicates that the Witwicky parents will return for more hijinks.

In this case, the issue at hand may not even be about money but scheduling conflicts as Kevin Dunn recently signed on to join the new HBO's new drama "Luck" starring Dustin Hoffman. It should be noted that when it comes to sequels, while most actors sign up for the typical three movies, re-negotiating the contract is common. Thanks to Christopher for the link.

Transformers 3 or W4C Concept Art?

Concept art for Transformers has recently hit the web from Transformers video game concept artist Frankell Baramdyka. The images seems to show of various new Cybertron locations and new characters that seems based on the movie art style but could also fit what we have seen so far for Transformers: War for Cybertron video game.

The images initially showed up on Baramdyka's blog (now removed), and spread to various sites including TFW2005 (for images on this post), io9.com and Shogun Gamer.

Another theory, advocated by io9, is that the artist was hired to begin work on the video game version of Transformers 3. That would suggest scenes from Cybertron, not out of the question considering the recent comment from Hasbro CEO Brian Goldner saying the movie would return to "core mythology". Thanks to Avatar, visiting strange new worlds is no longer a bad thing to studios. Still expensive though.

I am leaning to thinking this was War For Cybertron art and not for the movie but its going to be a while before we know for sure. Thanks to Gregory for the link and images. Also to Katie for her link.

Update: Had to remove images per DCMA request from somebody, I assume Paramount or Activision. Can't say who exactly because notified via google. Anyway, if had doubts about the legitimacy of the images, there are none now.

Transformers Bumblebee #4 Preview

Transformers: Bumblebee #4 is coming to comic book stores near you this Wednesday. From Bzzurkk is a preview of the covers and first five pages of the issue. Issue description:

Written by Zandar Cannon and art by Chee, Cover by Chee and Guido Guidi

When BUMBLEBEE has a change of heart and goes back to help a little girl whom he had used to discover her father’s secrets, he finds himself pursued by the terrifying and unstoppable SKYWARP! BUMBLEBEE’s big adventure as leader of the AUTOBOTS comes to an explosive and thrilling conclusion!

Click here for the preview.

Sneak Peek at Transformers: Prime's Bumblebee

Starting this fall, Discovery and Hasbro will be launching a new kid's network called "The Hub". While not officially confirmed, it is assumed that the flagship series will be Transformers: Prime, whose title has not even been officially, verified much less what the series may be about, designs and more. Thanks to the AllSpark's Monocle, we now have an image of Bumblebee from the recent issue of Brand Magazine.

As the image above shows, the new cartoon seems to be based on the live-action Transformers films. This leads to lot of questions the least of which is the cartoon set in the movie's continuity or simply be inspired by it but tell its own unrelated stories? The character does seem to have more detail then has been typical of Transformers cartoons of late which recent rumors indicate might be CG based. Hopefully Hasbro will release official details soon.

Transformers 2 Loses Best Sound Mixing Oscar

To no surprise really, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen did not win an Oscar for Best Sound Mixing category. It lost to The Hurt Locker. I assumed Avatar was a lock. With the end of the Oscars, this officially ends the award season so Michael Bay and company will remain empty handed with a chance to give it another try with Transformers 3. The full list of winners can be found here.

Sound Mixing
* “Avatar” Christopher Boyes, Gary Summers, Andy Nelson and Tony Johnson
* “The Hurt Locker” Paul N.J. Ottosson and Ray Beckett] (winner)
* “Inglourious Basterds” Michael Minkler, Tony Lamberti and Mark Ulano
* “Star Trek” Anna Behlmer, Andy Nelson and Peter J. Devlin
* “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” Greg P. Russell, Gary Summers and Geoffrey Patterson

Revenge of the Fallen Tops Razzies With Three Wins (Updated)

On the eve of the Academy Awards, the Golden Raspberry Award winners were announced. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen as the dubious distinction of winning the most Razzies with three including Worst Picture. Michael Bay "won" for Worst Director while Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman, and Ehren Kruger won for Worst Screenplay.

Other "winners" include Sandra Bullock (Worst Actress, All About Steve) on the eve of likely winning Best Actress Oscar, The Jonas Brothers (Worst Actor), Sienna Miller (Worst Supporting Actress, GI Joe), and more. Amazingly Land of the Lost, easily one of the worst films of the decade, only got one win with Worst Remake/Rip-Off or Sequel. The press release is here, the full list of "winners" here.

Over at TrekMovie, the writing team provided their "acceptance comments":

Bob: I’d like to thank my partners Alex and Ehren who really lead the way on this one.

Alex: I wouldn’t be in a position to receive this award without Ehren and Bob. They really deserve most of the credit.

Ehren: As you know, Bob and Alex were the experts on this movie having written the first one, and I was just lucky to be able to be a part of this award winning team.

Update: For your entertainment, the Razzie acceptance speech from Sandra Bullock who has promised to show up if she "won."

Transformers 3 Casting Begun?

From Siebertron.com there are indications that Transformers 3 may have begun the casting process or at least the costume department is in full swing. This is based on two emails the site received looking for "athletic military guys who are around 6'-6'' & 185-200lbs & ages 18-35. ...The work will basically be still photos in wardrobe for director review." The second email also indicated costumes are being constructed for "Iranian military guys". As far as story beats, not much to go on as a military element is no surprise but it does sound like the Transformers might once again visit the Middle East as they did for the first two films. To read the full details, click here.

Gametrailers War for Cybertron Interview

GameTrailers TV last weekend debut the new trailer for Transformers: War for Cybertron and with this week's episode they interviewed W4C Game Director Matt Tieger. There does appear to be some new footage. The interview is an overview of the game, the story, campaigns and goals they had in making the game.

Below is full episode or click here. If just want to see the War for Cybertron interview, click here (it is the first five minutes of "Chapter 2"). Thanks to v1p3rS for the link.

Tour of ILM's Renderfarm

This isn't TF news but just a look at Industrial Light and Magic's Renderfarm that was used to create the visual effects for the Transformers films among many others. The article from Slashfilm gets into a few details about the farm and includes a video (also below) that was made before the first Transformers (I am guessing 2006) that gives you an idea of the scale. Click here for the full article which includes another video, facts about the data center and more images. Thanks to Chris for the link.

TF Linkfest - Masterpieces, Donald Duck and More

Another linkfest, more images of up and coming Transformers and a look back at the toy line from 1986.

Masterpiece Ghost Starscream
Click the link to check out a yet another version of Masterpiece Starscream. Same toy from around five years ago, but now with clear plastic. I think this makes for the fifth or sixth version which can get tiresome. Still this is a pretty sweet looking version. Currently a Japan exclusive, available sometime in June.

Night Ops Ratchet Gallery
Gallery of the new repaint for Ratchet, now in a military type paint scheme.

Hasbro 1996 ToyFair Catalog
From The Allspark and TFWiki is the above gallery that shows off the Transformers from 1986 in all their glory. Apparently the images show some differences from the final versions that hit store shelves but I don't know for sure what those differences are.

Disney Label Donald Duck
Click the link to view a gallery of the Japan exclusive toy that has Donald Duck mixed with a little Bumblebee that has an alt mode of a Bug. Or check out the video below that shows off the toy. It’s a bit long; some of it tedious, so up to you’re to decide which way to check out this new toy that I believe is out now.

War For Cybertron Multiplayer Info

It isn't much on detail, but a recent press release from Activision for Transformers: War for Cybertron, a little bit of information was revealed about the plans for the multiplayer mode.

“Complete with several multiplayer modes, Transformers: War for Cybertron allows gamers to play through story missions with their friends in drop in/drop out online co-op, and also create their own Transformers character for competitive head-to-head multiplayer modes, choosing among four distinct character classes, personalizing its look and selecting from a huge variety of weapons, skills and abilities.”

The online functionality was known but this is the first mention of an ability to create your own Transformer. It should be interesting to see how the varied (or not) the character creation options will be.

Bumblebee, Prime Updated for Transformers 3

It seems like pre-production is in full swing with more news about Transformers 3 coming out. TF3 animation supervisor Scott Benza from ILM provided an update about their pre-production plans including a design "update" to Prime and Bumblebee, working on new robots and more. The full article from SciFi Wire is here.

Highlights:
- Bumblebee is seen has having matured over the years and so will have "subtle changes to his physique" to indicate this.
- Prime will have "more heroic" but "little tiny things" that the average person will not notice but Transfans might.
- The script isn't complete, but they have enough information to start on art and 3-D modeling which can take up to 30 weeks to complete.
- Level of detail for each character, including planned new ones, will depend on how much screen time they will have and any close-ups that might occur.

Transformers 3 Returning to "Core Mythology"?

Last week MTV spoke with Michael Bay about Transformers 3 and this week its Hasbro CEO Brian Goldner who revealed what sounds like a back to basics for the Transformers franchise. From the article:

"You’re going to see that great core mythology brought to the fore, and Michael is hard at work at making this a reality and we’re very excited about it," the series executive producer and Hasbro head Brian Goldner told MTV News. "I mean, I think it’s a great time to put it out in 2011 and we’re very excited about the movie."

"What we’re really doing is getting back to some of the core character development and storytelling. And I think there’s some elements of the core story that the filmmakers, Michael in particular wanted to tell," Goldner explained. "He’s really well-versed in the Transformers lore. So I think you’ll see, you know, less bedlam, more characters."

So far "characterization" seems to be the key word here, how that goal translates into a script and then a movie should be interesting to see.

The Sound of Transformers: ROTF

From MichaelBay.com, below is a video about the sound for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. ROTF was nominated for Best Sound Mixing category for the Oscars which will be given out next Sunday.