Epic Movie Explosions for the New Year

Here is an epic explosion super cut from Screen Junkies (with multiple use of Transformers scenes) to ring in the new year. Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas from BW Megatron

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!
The voice of Beast Wars Megatron, David Kaye, continues his now yearly tradition ('13, '12, '11) of wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. This time with the very lovely Tara Strong in the voice of Bubbles from the Powerpuff Girls.

IDW March 2015 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for March 2015. Four floppies and one trades are coming out that month. The Combiner Wars story arc begins this month to go with the release of the Combiner Wars toys. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

Behind the Magic for Transformers: Age of Extinction

Below is a new "Behind the Magic" video from the ILM Visual FX YouTube channel that shows off how some of the visual effects were done for Transformers: Age of Extinction.

Wahlberg Up for Transformers 5

In an interview with MTV (video below), Mark Wahlberg verified that he is contractually bound to the usual three picture deal that is the norm for franchises. Not only that but "I can’t speak for Mr. Bay, but something tells me we’ll be on set soon." This isn't exactly big news but up to now the only thing we knew was Paramount and Hasbro had committed to doing Transformers 5. Until now it was assumed that Mark's return to the franchise was dependent on Bay sitting in the director's chair but now it seems that he could return without Bay (unless a new director passes on casting him). As for the future of TF5, hopefully we will learn more early next year as it seems critical decisions have to be made soon if the film hopes to start filming by mid-2015 to make a Summer 2016 release date. Thanks to Wynton R. for the link.

Transformers Universe Shutting Down

Jagex and Hasbro have announced that their online fake-free MMO/MOBA game is shutting down as of January 31st. While no specifics were provided on why the game is shutting down after, Jagex had started laying of the TFU team back in November. The game had just started its open Beta back in July and technically is still in Beta as it is shut down. The reasons why were not explained. It could be lack of users and interest or Hasbro revoked the license forcing the shutdown. I tend to lean to the latter as Hasbro seems to be in a bit of an ADD mode as it continues to reverse many of its decisions over the last few years that seems driven by declining toy sales across most of their brands including Transformers which did not get much of a boost from Transformers: Age of Extinction. Any case if you spent any money on the game, be sure to check out the shut down details to see if you could get a refund. Condolencesto the TFU team.

Transformers: The Movie Soundtrack on Vinyl Pre-Order

For those looking to purchase and interesting gift for a Transformers fan, here is one. On December 23, 2014 the soundtrack to 1986's Transformers: The Movie will be released on Vinyl (maybe for 1st time, can't recall). Vinyl refers to large records that went out of style back in the 80s when replaced by CDs but Audiophiles consider them the best source for music. You can now pre-order a vinyl copy from Amazon for $47.99. If not a fan of Vinyl, you can also use the link to download the MP3 digital copy of the soundtrack for $8.99. Please use link above so this site gets credit (which gets converted to Amazon gift cards).

New Mobile Transformers Game Announced

Hasbro and NeNA have revealed their next mobile game called Transformers: Battle Tactics. The "free" game (does have in-game purchases) allows players to "collect" (aka buy) over 75 Autobots and Decepticons from different eras of the franchise with emphasis on Generation One and the IDW comics. The official website has been launched but the game itself is not available yet (probably be sometime in 2015). Below is a teaser video and game description. More screenshots are here.

Battles are swift and require strategic decision-making to propel players to victory. Each Transformers character has unique stats and abilities, which shift as players convert them from robot to their alternate mode. The unique graphic style is inspired by the Transformers Generations Combiner Wars characters and comic book series. Transformers: Battle Tactics includes an expansive single-player campaign, story-driven in-game events and real-time player-vs-player (PvP) matches for players around the world to engage in strategic battles and rise to the top of the leaderboards.

The Finishing Touch Video for Age of Extinction

MichaelBay.com has released a new 22 minute behind the scenes video for Transformers: Age of Extinction that covers the post-production process as they reached the finish line on finishing the movie. It covers editing, sound, music, voice acting and more.

Transformers: Age of Extinction for Best Picture?

In either an act of desperation, an early April's Fool joke or some contractual obligations, Paramount Pictures has created a "For Your Consideration" poster for Academy Award nominations in any category it can remotely qualify for with the most hilarious being "Best Picture", "Best Director", and "Best Adapted Screenplay". I am surprised they just didn't go ahead and suggest Nicola Peltz and Mark Wahlberg for the actor categories.

While I am being snarky, it actually has nothing to do with the quality of the film itself. Age of Extinction could be considered the best action film of all time and this would still be silly. Historically the Academy Awards hates action films. What do they hate even more? Science fiction films. In a near tie that would be followed by any expensive summer tent pole movie. Age of Extinction hits all three of Oscar's most reviled genres. So in the "top" categories of Oscar (Best Pic, Actor, Director, etc.) those type of movies are shut out automatically.

IDW February 2015 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for February 2015. Five floppies and two trades are coming out that month. Nothing major that is new as Days of Deception story arc that leads to the Combiner Wars arc while Transformers Drift and Angry Birds/Transformers mini-series conclude. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

Transformers 4: Age of Extinction Outtakes

From MichaelBay.com, here is an outtakes video from the set of Transformers: Age of Extinction. It's a bit different as the emphasis is about some of the fun on set and some of the unexpected things that can happen on set including lots of Bayhem and his mom.

Linkfest - Combiner Wars

The news on the Transformers 5 front remains dead and probably will for a while but that doesn't mean the toys stop coming. In a few cons Hasbro and 3rd party vendors teased about the next six months or so of releases. For Hasbro that means Angry Birds, Combiner Wars and Robots in Disguise toys.

For third party companies, the theme remains combiners with upcoming releases of combiners but it seems the theme for 2015 is Dinbots with at least three separate sets coming one of which will be an actual combiner. Other galleries include a look at Optimus Prime turning into a Playstation 1 console, a look at Ultimetel Prime, and more. On the video review front we have looks at the next wave of Generations Deluxe and Voyager toys, look at two versions of Swoop, reviews of the not Technobots, more Masterpiece figures including Wheeljack, and bunch more.

Michael Bay Considering Non-Transformers Movie

Variety is reporting that director Michael Bay is circling "13 Hours" as his next film. The film is based on the book "Thirteen Hours: A Firsthand Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi" by Mitchell Zuckoff which Paramount Pictures bought the rights for. The website is stating it as fact that Michael Bay said he was done with Transformers but the closest he has gotten to confirming that was in August when he said "There's kind of a new chapter, a new direction in movies I want to make. I have a lot of stories to tell. And it's about flexing new muscles." In a bunch of different ways all he has said is he is seriously considering leaving the franchise but Bay, Paramount nor Hasbro has officially confirmed that he has moved on. Thinking and doing are two different things (even though people often confuse them as one and the same like say Variety's reporters).

So what does this mean for Transformers 5? It depends. If Bay privately has told Paramount and Hasbro he is done, then its safe to assume the producers are moving ahead with pre-production and actively looking for a replacement director with Bay likely getting an executive producer credit. End result is the Summer 2016 date remains feasible (but that window is rapidly closing). However, it could almost mean that Paramount is eying a repeat of Transformers 4 and Pain & Gain Bayhem combo where they agree to pay for a Michael Bay passion product in return to directing Transformers 5.

IDW January 2015 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for January 2015. Six floppies and two trades are coming out that month. IDW continues to support Hasbro's Combiner Wars line of Generations toys coming in 2015 as their line of comics continue to hint and occasional fill in gaps here and there on the history of TF combiners considering Devastator remains the only known stable combiner as the next arms race will be combiner technology. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Concept Art

The official Facebook page for Transformers has posted concept art from Age of Extinction that looks like it was the near final version that was approved for the movie. The nine image gallery is here.

Big Robots, Big Sounds in Transformers: Age of Extinction

Variety has posted a video that discusses the sound effects used in Transformers: Age of Extinction with mixers Greg P. Russell and Scott Millan. Like most making-of movie featurettes it is kind of sales-pitchy but still might find it interesting. I don't think this is part of the Blu-ray release of the movie.

Everything Wrong with Transformers: Age of Extinction in Two Parts

After the Honest Trailer we know have Cinema Sins take in their Everything Wrong series. Their Everything Wrong with Transformers: Age of Extinction had so many sins that they had to split it into two parts. As usual for the series, most of the sins are spot on. And love those bonus rounds.

Hilarious Honest Trailer for Transformers: Age of Extinction

Below is the latest entry in the Honest Trailer series with Transformers: Age of Extinction. Very little I disagree with it, almost like they read my review for some of it. So basically if you hated the reviews of the film, probably not going to like the video below.

Transformers Returning to the Cartoon Network

As predicted, after Hasbro gave up on The Hub boosting toy sales, Transformers: Robots in Disguise was shopped around for a new home. That home has now officially been announced as the Cartoon Network and that the series "will debut in the first quarter of 2015" (so before March 31st). No other details besides that. Below is the officially summary of the show from the press release.

The mission begins as Bumblebee must step up to be leader in the years after we left the Autobots in Transformers Prime. Summoned by Optimus Prime to save Earth from a new faction of Decepticons, Bumblebee puts his light-hearted mettle to the test after assembling a rouge team of young Autobots action heroes. Bumblebee must balance his job fighting off evil with being equal parts squad leader and coach to a rascally band that needs constant coaxing to learn how to work together. The results are comical when the cool rebel, elite guard cadet, bombastic dinobot and exciteable mini-con must balance team-building with chasing and capturing their new enemies in every episode packed full of action, fun and adventure.

Really the only thing that has changed is the show's channel which should do a lot to assist with its visibility to Hasbro's target demographic. The bad news is it also adds a layer of complexity on its chances of renewal, especially since the kids channel have been a bit skitzo lately on their demo goals. The main takeaway is that Hasbro is going to return to its old pre-Hub business models of making cartoons to sell toys to air on whatever channel will take them. At most they will use their time block on Discovery Family as dumping grounds for unsold shows and repeats.

Kre-O Summarizes the Transformers Trilogy

In a cute video from Hasbro, Kreon Optimus Prime and bunch of other Kreons provide a summary of the Transformers trilogy while bleeping any spoilers for the 4th film.

Peter Cullen Honored at Mann's Chinese Theatre Handprint Ceremony

Peter Cullen was honored today at the TCL Chinese Theatre, a famous LA landmark those familiar front has been seen in movies and red carpet ceremonies for decades. The hand print ceremony encases a celebrities hands, signature and sometimes other things in concrete. According to the current owners of the landmark there are really two types of handprint ceremonies - the traditional one for larger block in the building forefront that is decided by committee. Then there is the "mock ceremony" that are paid for by corporate sponsors. In this case by Paramount for the release of Transformers: Age of Extinction on home video. Regardless, Peter Cullen deserves the honor and joins a storied list of Hollywood names. Hopefully for the fifth movie they will do one for legendary voice actor Frank Welker (Megatron, Galvatron, Winnie The Pooh, the list is substantial). Below is a kind of press/fan view of the event and the second video is the "lets sell some Blu-rays" commercial version.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Blu-Ray and DVD Out Today

In case you some how managed to miss the commercials telling you, Transformers: Age of Extinction Blu-ray (BR) and DVD is now available in stores. The details on the special features are here. The movie comes in more or less four versions - Combo Pack (BR + DVD + Digital Copy), IMAX 3D Combo Pack (3D BR + BR + DVD + Digital Copy), DVD, and store exclusive with the Combo Pack. Below are the details on US stores prices.

On a related note, movie composer Steve Jablonsky announced that a CD copy of the score will be available starting October 7th via La-La Land Records. If aware of prices at other stores be sure to leave info in the comments.

More Transformers: Age of Extinction Concept Art

Paramount has provided Seibertron.com and TFW2005 have been provided with exclusive pre-production artwork that was created for Transformers: Age of Extinction. The art shows some of the concepts developed for various scenes of the movie, a look at designing Lockdown, rusted Optimus Prime, knight Optimus, ships and more. The full gallery can be found at Seibertron and TFW2005.

First Look Angry Birds: Transformers Gameplay, Characters and Music

Set for release on iOS (Oct 15) and Android (Oct 30), Rovio has posted several videos for Angry Birds: Transformers. The first vid is a look at the gameplay which seems to be a side scroller with Generation One homages. After the gameplay trailer is a look at Angry Birds version of Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, and Lockdown. The last video is an interview with Vince DiCola (Transformers: The Movie) who is one of the music composers for the game. I think this just might be the first mobile Transformers game I am genuinely curious about playing.

Peter Cullen Wants Bay for Transformers 5

In a brief interview with CinemaBlend, Peter Cullen (voice of Optimus Prime) said he is hoping that Michael Bay will return to direct Transformers 5.

"I have a great deal of respect for him. He generates a great deal of excitement and energy. He's really a hands-on director. My son is a stunt man and worked in Chicago doing a lot of the driving sequences...he said he's a very, very diligent, hands-on guy. He creates a great deal of energy and puts everybody on their toes. I would certainly miss him. I think he's brilliant, his mind is unbelievable. Michael if you're [reading] this, I certainly hope you are coming back."

The Hub Rebrand Now Official

As mentioned last week, Hasbro were in negotiations to turn control of The Hub to Discovery Communications. Now that move is official. Effective October 13, the channel will be Discovery Family Channel. I doubt this will change anything from a cable provider perspective but from a viewer perspective the rebranding means a new schedule with a heavy emphasis on Discovery's "family friendly" content. Current shows they plan on adding to the channel are Superhuman, Time Warp, Flying Wild Alaska, Africa and Extreme Engineering: Biggest Reveals with probably more to follow. Hasbro cartoons will continue to air in the daytime with My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop, and Transformers Rescue Bots cited as examples but what time range is Hasbro's was not specified.

I am curious to know what drove this change. The Hub's business model wasn't profits through ads but profit by increasing toy sales for Hasbro. Even if the channel had been profitable selling the commercials, Hasbro would have considered it a failure if it didn't help sell their toys and judging by their last year or so of decreasing sales indicates that The Hub may have actually hurt them since few kids saw their ads/cartoons. My guess is most people's view of the channel was the same as mine. The Hub simply wasn't worth paying the extra $10 a month to get when Disney, Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon were available at expanded basic cable tier. As a result between limited access to the channel compared to their competitor kid networks while simultaneously removing Hasbro's content from those competitor channels resulted in far few kids seeing those cartoons/ads than expected. So less eyeballs means less toys sells means channel being viewed as essentially a failure despite the multiple Emmys and critical acclaim some its programming enjoyed. After four years the Hasbro powers that be probably decided to just cut their losses and move back to a model that worked before - airing cartoons on whatever channel will pay for them with the advantage of getting in front of a whole lot more eyeballs. I don't know what this means for Transformers: Robot in Disguise which is supposed to air sometime in 2015. I would not be the least bit surprised if we learn later that Hasbro shopped it around to other networks to air.

Transformers: Age of Extinction - Dinobots VFX Featurette Extended Version

Below is a longer version of the Dinobots Visual Effects clip that is part of the special features that is included with Transformers: Age of Extinction when its released on September 30th on Blu-ray. Thanks to Feris O. for finding it. To order from Amazon: Combo Pack | 3D Combo Pack | Limited Edition | DVD

IDW December 2014 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for December 2014. Probably due to next year's Transformers: Robots in Disguise cartoon, IDW has dropped the sub-title so now its just "Transformers". Strikes me as an odd choice since it would have been a perfect excuse to do soft relaunch of the title. Any case a somewhat busy month with five floppies and one trade. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

The Hub Rebranding to Discovery Family

After four years of attempting to go toe to toe with Nickelodeon, Disney, and Cartoon Network for the pre-teen demographic, Hasbro has thrown in the towel. The company is going to turn over controlling interest co-owner Discovery Communications who plans on rebranding the network as Discovery Family with a goal of going for a more all ages approach. The preliminary deal would allow Hasbro to retain control of programming a 9am to 3pm block to help with advertising their various toy lines but outside of that Discovery will be free to program the network under the new brand.

Considering both Nick, Disney and Cartoon Network has shown a renewed interest in focusing only on the 13 and younger crowd by cancelling or marginalizing their all ages programming (Legend of Korra, all DC cartoon, and bunch more that don't immediately come to mind), Discovery might be able to take advantage of a segment that simply isn't being serviced anymore - parents who want to watch TV and cartoons with their kids while pretending they are not hating every second of it.

Four Clips from Age of Extinction Special Features

Today Transformers: Age of Extinction gets a digital only release. As part of that four clips from the extra features for the movie were released. The Blu-ray/DVD release of the movie comes on September 30th. I recommend just wait until then since for the same price you can get the Blu-ray disc and the digital copy. The first clip, introduced by Mark Wahlberg, comes from USA Today with a look at the movies explosives. The 2nd clip comes from Parade with a bit about Stanley Tucci on the film set. Another explosions featurette clip with a Mark introduction comes care of Break.com. You can find the final clip (embed not working) at from ComicBookResources as TJ Miller talks about working on the film.

To order from Amazon: Combo Pack | 3D Combo Pack | Limited Edition | DVD

Transformers: Age of Extinction Blu-Ray Cavalry Charge Feature Clip and Trailer

Next week is the digital release (9/16) of Transformers: Age of Extinction followed two weeks later by the Blu-Ray and DVD release of the movie in stores (9/30). Below is a clip from one of its special features with a look at the Dinobot Cavalry Charge followed by an "extended" trailer/commercial. The digital release is going to be $20 and Blu-Ray release with digital copy is also going to be $20 so you might as well just wait the two extra weeks and get the physical copy.
To order from Amazon: Combo Pack | 3D Combo Pack | Limited Edition | DVD

First Look at the Creation of the Dinobots from Transformers 4 Blu-ray Release

Now that we know the September 30th release date Transformers: Age of Extinction, here is our first look at the "Creation of the Dinobots" special feature that will be on the Blu-ray release of the movie.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Blu-Ray Release Date and Details

A bit of a news drought but finally some new to report. Several months ago several retailers released a look at their exclusive additions of Transformers: Age of Extinction for Blu-ray when it came out in theaters. What was missing was a release date and details on the special features of the release until now. The Blu-ray/DVD release date is September 30, 2014 with an early video on demand release of September 16 but note those usually do not include special features and cost the same $20 as the physical disc version which will also come with a digital download.

The movie will come in the usual configurations Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack (4 discs), Blu-ray Combo Pack (3 discs), and DVD (1-disc), with one these configurations being part of the exclusive versions for Amazon's Limited Edition Giftset with Grimlock and Optimus Statue, Target's Transforming Optimus Case, Wal-Mart's Transforming Bumblebee case, and Best-Buy's Steelbook case. Of note is the IMAX footage only comes with the 3D version of the movie. On regular HDTV's this means that for those few IMAX scenes the black bars along the top and bottom of the movie would temporarily disappear. Basically not worth it unless you already have the 3D TV and player setup to begin with.

No mention on length but the special features seem like a nice variety of behind the scenes information. Hopefully they focus more on show and tell with a whole lot less sales pitch for the film to those that are watching the feature because they already bought it as tends to be the habit with almost all special features (about only exceptions I can think of are the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films). Full details below.

Michael Bay Remains Undecided on Directing Transformers 5

In an article with USA Today, the actor talks about his summer of success's with Transformers 4 and three producing efforts in movies and TV doing very well. As part of that he continued to not definitely answer the question on whether he would be directing Transformers 5 or not. He continues to lean to "not" saying "There's kind of a new chapter, a new direction in movies I want to make. I have a lot of stories to tell. And it's about flexing new muscles." Then again he outright said he was not directing Transformers 4 until Paramount likely significantly upped his payments for doing the movie. The previous three films netted him an average of $75 million and I would not be surprised if that number climbs to $100M for TF4. Hard to ignore that kind of money for a job that is already his until he decides otherwise. Basically until an official announcement is made, I am just assuming the next Transformers 5 film is being directed by Bay.

Linkfest - Dinobots and More

If last few years seemed like 3rd parties focused heavily on combiners, it seems this year has become about the Dinobots as at least three or so companies are prepping their own Dinobot homages. In that realm we have galleries for not Computron, not Swindle, not Sky-Byte, and early look at the not Throttlebots combiner. On the official products front, Takara is working on their take of the Sega Genesis Transformer and a new paint job for Evasion Mode Prime. Hasbro has released images of some of their Angry Birds Transformers line and a look at some TF4 exclusives. In the licensed products realm, Hot Toys is releasing their take on Optimus Prime while Prime 1 Studio has movie inspired busts in the works along with a large and expensive Starscream statue, and Kubrick is releasing their own Bearbrick Transformers. In addition have a look at apartments that kind of transform through creative use of space. On the review front, a look at 28+ toys that have been released or about too. A few favorites include a look at Generations Jetfire, iGears new design of the Seekers, not Skullcruncher, Guardian, not Sludge and a Dinobot combiner.

Transformers 4 Crosses $1 Billion in Box Office

The executives at Paramount and Michael Bay are probably very pleased right now as Transformers: Age of Extinction is the first film of 2014 to cross the $1 billion threshold (and 2nd film of the franchise to do so). The landmark was reached mostly due to very strong international sales of $763.8M in sales where $317M was from China alone. Ironically, TF4 achieved a franchise low in the United States with box office sales at $241.2M. The new landmark is to beat Dark of the Moon's $1.12B worldwide total (so another $100 million) but that doesn't really matter as the main goal was reached. No weekend breakdowns as TF4 dropped out of the top 10 in the States. On a somewhat related note, Guardians of the Galaxy (great movie) broke all expectations and came within sniffing distance of TF4's $100M best weekend of 2014 with a US total of $94M.

“Along with the immensely talented and versatile Mark Wahlberg, the great Steven Spielberg as executive producer, and a superb cast, he created a powerful re-launch of this franchise. This tremendous accomplishment – to be the first film of 2014 to earn over $1 billion at the box office – proves once again that Michael is a world-class filmmaker at the top of his game," said Grey, whose studio last week extended and expanded its deal with Bay.

Hidden Costs of Transformers 4 Chinese Success Story

An article from The Hollywood Reporter look at the hidden costs of Transformers: Age of Extinction's success in the China market. The movie ended its three week run (limited by law in China for foreign films) at a record breaking $317 million. On paper that sounds great but it turns out that Paramount might be lucky to recover even 25% of that total ($79.25M). Part of that is because around 50% of the gross is split between the studio and China. Another reason is what sounds like a system designed with graft and payouts in mind. "In China, there are often multiple parties involved [in film projects]," says one executive, citing as an example director Zhang Yimou's upcoming film Coming Home. "There must be 20 different companies involved in the movie, though it's all financed by one company," he adds. "It's incredibly labyrinthian and impossible to understand."

Transformers 4 Crosses $300M in China, Near $1 Billion

While Transformers: Age of Extinction continues to do only so-so in the States, its international box office remain strong as the film becomes the first film (domestic or foreign) to cross the $300 million mark in China with a current total of $301 million. At the end of this weekend the movie's estimated total is $236.3M in States and $730M international for a total of $966.3M. It should cross the threshold by the end of the week and probably match Dark of the Moon's $1.12 billion total. As for this weekend's stats, it was $4.6 in the US, and $37.5M overseas.

SDCC 2014: IDW Announces Angry Birds Transformers and Combiner Wars Comics

Yesterday was the Hasbro panel and today was IDW's to talk about their upcoming plans. Most of the Transformers comic side info was already covered at Botcon so the to new things is a Combiner Wars comic and Angry Birds Transformers comic (press release below), timed to coincide with the release of related toys. Combiners have been used for frequently in the main Transformers comics so I assume those will be incontinuity also. Full details of other IDW info form the panel is here. You can read an interview with John Barber about the Angry Birds TF comic here.

SDCC 2014: Hasbro Teases Robots in Disguise Cartoon, New Combiner Toys

Thursday was the official start of the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con. The yearly convention is nowadays used as a big old smorgasbord of movie and TV news but the comic book and toy side still gets a little of the spotlight. Hasbro was on hand and held their panel that picked up where Botcon 2014 left off. At the panel they introduced two new Generations combiners, teased the new Transformers: Robots in Disguise cartoon series along with a few toys and spoke about a few other things. Summary and links to the galleries are below along with the teaser video for the cartoon. All slides from the panel are here.

Wulong Karst Formally Sues Over Transformers 4

According to Deadline, Paramount Pictures, M1905 (their Chinese partner) and the producers of Transformers: Age of Extinction have a new (if minor) headache to deal with. After threatening to do it earlier this month, I guess discussions did not work out. The Wulong Karst Tourism Company, the location for the Dinobots introduction, have sued them in Chongqing No. 3 Intermediate People's Court for 4M yaun for losses while the park was closed for filming, 12M yaun for profit losses due to the breach and promises how would be depicted in the movie and refund of their 4.8M yaun to be in the movie. The total of 12.8M yaun works out to around $3.4 million depending time of day. The lawsuit comes down to the movie not being nearly overt enough in advertising the park, even though apparently it was good enough as it has enjoyed an increase in visitors. That total is chump change to Paramount as Transformers 4 is poised to cross $1 billion (or 6.2B yuan) and likely they will attempt to quietly settle the lawsuit.

IDW and Hasbro Introduces The Transformers Humble Bundle for Charity

With the start of the San Diego Comic-Con, IDW and Hasbro has started "The Humble Transformers Bundle" for a great potential deal for Transformers digital comic book deal where proceeds will go to Hasbro's Children's Fund. It lets you choose your own price but if pay at least $15 you get the best deal with the full bundle of 12 trade paper backs or over 100 comics if choose to pay at least $15 for the bundle. This includes 48 issues of Marvel's Transformers comics, all 21 issues of the All Hail Megatron, Autocracy, Spotlight volume 1 and first two volume each of the current series Robots in Disguise and More Than Meets the Eye. These are not tied into Comixology or other online retails.

I recommend creating a Humble Bundle account first, then log in before donating. That way your purchase is tied into your account to re-download if need to in the future. I donated $30, after that I received an email that directed me to the site to download the books in my preferred format. If interested in the .cbz format of the books, the readers I use is ComicGlass for iPad/iPhone, Cover for Windows 8 and Perfect Viewer for Android. If go with epub format, Play Books from Google will probably more that meet your needs in most cases and includes syncing across devices. Below is the video about the promotion. Click here to order your bundle for yourself or a friend.

Transformers 4 Crosses $800 Million in Worldwide Box Office

While the stateside box office take of Transformers: Age of Extinction remains below expectations, the international take is likely far exceeding those same expectations as the movie ends the weekend $886 million worldwide total based on early estimates. In the states the movie made only $10 million (for $227M total) while its international gross was $81.2 million (for $659M total), boosted by premieres in various markets now that the World Cup is over. In Brazil it had a $16.5M opening, one of the largest ever in the country while in Germany it opened $11.2M, highest opening of the year in that country. In China, it continues to well taking in $9.6 million ($285.7M total). The film should easily pass $1 billion probably by end of next week, give or take a few days.

IDW October 2014 Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for October 2014. Not anything major this month with four floppies and the Windblade trade coming out. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Top Movie of 2014

The box office totals are in for the third weekend since Transformers: Age of Extinction's release. The movie is the top movie of all time in China and now it records itself as being the top movie of 2014 with a worldwide gross of $752.3 million with still a dozen or so major markets about to get the movie now that the World Cup is over. The previous record holder, X-Men: Days of Future Past was at $731.4M.

In the States, Transformers 4 continues to loose steam with a weekend total of $16.3 million for a 56% drop from the previous weekends for a US total of $208.8 million that is expected to top out around $255M. Worldwide, the movie remains very strong with a $102M take for a total of $543.5M. Of that $102 take, $20.4 million is from its opening weekend in the UK and $16.2 from opening in Mexico. The movie did drop in China by 52% but still easily outpacing the US with a $25 million weekend for a $262.6 million. While the United States isn't going to provide the expected boost to the $1 billion goal, the huge international success of the movie along with upcoming release dates to go in Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Japan indicates that the movie will reach the goal and just might surpass Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Concept Art from Josh Nizzi

More concept art from Transformers: Age of Extinction has been posted. The latest comes from Concept Artist Josh Nizzi (frankly one of their best in my opinion) that provides his take on the Dinobots, some of the unseen Knights mentioned in the film, Optimus Prime, weapons and shields and a bunch more. That includes another look at the "Creator" hand in a striking image that reminds me a lot of what DC Comics uses when talking about its own origin of the universe. The full gallery of images can be found at Josh Nizzi's website or mirrored here.

Autobots vs Decepticons Transformers Trilogy Super Cut

Below is a 20 minute super cut that takes all the action scenes of the Autobots and the Decepticons fighting (so not just on screen but engaged in combat) from the first three Transformers films. The order of the scenes and how they are segmented almost comes across as completely random. For example the forest fight sequence from Revenge of the Fallen gets split into about 6 pieces, segmented out kind of evenly through the 20 minutes but are not in the fight sequence order.

Transformers 4 Tops Slow Weekend

I was expecting Transformers: Age of Extinction's weekend box office to drop 50% but apparently I underestimated just how much the "more of the same" reviews (including mine) and the holiday weekend (down 43% compared to last year) would hurt the film as it dropped a whopping 65%. The current estimates indicate a $36.4 million weekend in the US ($174.7M US total) with $95.8 million in international sales (($400.9M total) for a $132.2 million weekend. The estimated 12 day worldwide box office total sits at $575.6 million. A number that any movie and those associated with it should be proud of except that they have the unusual definition of success being measured as a final take of at least $1 billion worldwide.

Steve Jablonsky Video Interview, Full Score Available Now

The full score for Transformers: Age of Extinction The Score album is available now on iTunes, Amazon and probably your other favorite digital download retailers. There is also a separate release that has 4 tracks the main score release does not have (Amazon, iTunes). Below is the full track list for both. In addition, below is a video interview with movie composer Steve Jablonsky as he discusses his motivation behind the music. Thanks to Feris O. for the link.


Transformers: AOE Score
1) Decision
2) Best Thing That Ever Happened
3) I'm an Autobot
4) Optimus Is Alive
5) Cemetery Wind
6) His Name Is Shane and He Drives
7) Hacking the Drone
8) Transformium
9) Galvatron Is Online
10) Your Creators Want You Back
11) The Final Knight
12) Punch Hold Slide Repeat
13) The Presence of Megatron
14) Galvatron Is Active
15) Have Faith Prime
16) Hong Kong Chase
17) The Legend Exists
18) Dinobot Charge
19) That’s a Big Magnet
20) Drive Backwards
21) Honor to the End
22) Leave Planet Earth Alone
23) The Knight Ship

Transformers: AOE Score EP
1) Hunted
2) Tessa
3) Autobots Reunite
4) Lockdown

Happy 4th: Two Stop Motion Transformers Related Fan Videos

Going into the States Fourth of July weekend, here are two well done stop motion videos as a fun way to kick things off. The first is Devastator vs Optimus Prime using 3rd party MakeToys Giant and Reveal the Shield Optimus Prime with MakeToys' Battle Tanker Upgrade kit. The result is very well done and must have been a pain in the rear to create. The second video is a drag race between Transformers Prime Optimus, Back to the Future DeLorean and Batman Begins Batmobile with a "guest" appearance. Things don't go well for Optimus but still an entertaining vid.

What Is Bayhem?

While those that love Michael Bay will probably not like the below video as it is critical of him, those that like to study filming technique will find it interesting. It demonstrates why Michael Bay may be a good story telling, he is the best in the business in creating an epic feel to any scene through the use of motion both from the camera, the actors, and the background both in big obvious ways and the smaller stuff you probably never specifically noticed but was still essential to making a moment work. Thanks to Mark for the link.

Reminder: Transformers 30th Anniversary Marathon on The Hub

For those that have The Hub network as part of their cable package, tomorrow kicks off the Transformers 30th Anniversary Marathon. The breakdown of schedule is from 11am to 4pm ET will be Transformers: Rescue Bots, from 4pm to 6pm ET will be 1986's Transformers: The Movie (required viewing for anyone trying to get all the G1 references) and then from 6pm to 7:30pm ET will be Transformers Prime: Predacons Rising movie. Press release here, promotional video below.

China Box Office Surpasses US for Transformers 4, Opens In India

It seems the cooperation deal with China is paying off for Paramount as the five day box office totals for Transformers: Age of Extinction in the country has surpassed the United States. As of Tuesday the film was at $134.5 million in China vs. $121 in the United States. This disparity is unlikely to last as I believe that foreign films in China can only stay in theaters for two or so weeks but it is still an impressive start that will only encourage more deals from the Hollywood studios. The expectation is Transformers 4 will become China's top grossing movie of all time, surpassing Avatar's $217.7 million (probably by end of weekend at current pace).

"The cooperation between CMMG and Paramount on TF4 is significant," Zhang Gen Ming, CEO and founder of CMMG, said in a statement. It marks CMMG’s first collaboration with a U.S. studio, Paramount Pictures.

Another Chinese Partner Claims Contract Breach Over Transformers 4

Once again Paramount might get sued from one of their Chinese partners for not representing their product sufficiently. The first time was from Beijing Pangu Investment who felt their hotel's logos and names were not shown enough and tried to recoup the cost of their deal to essentially get free perpetual advertisement from the film. It seems Wulong Karst National Park liked the idea as they are now claiming breach of contract for the same reasons. They claim the park's location was not displayed and the film edited events in such a way to make it seem like it was a neighbor to Kong Kong and not its actual 700 miles away.

Transformers 4 Wal-Mart Exclusives Revealed

While the movie is not quite yet in its second week of release, we already know some of the Blu-ray retailer exclusives (Amazon, Target & Best Buy) now we can add Wal-Mart's to the list. They will have two exclusives, one is the Bumblebee Mask Packaging ($24.96) or get the Limited Edition Blu-ray Giftset ($34.99) that will include three figurines of Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, and Stinger with a TF4 logo magnet. The site lists a 12/31/14 release date but ignore it as that is a placeholder value until Paramount reveals the official details which likely will be at least a month or so away as they understandably like to wait until the movie has run its course in theaters.

My Transformers: Age of Extinction Review

I was hoping the critics would be proved wrong when I saw Transformers: Age of Extinction this weekend in IMAX 3D. In a bunch of different ways they collectively essentially said that Transformers 4 was the same as the three previous movies – all visual effects with no story and no characterization that was nearly an hour too long. Sadly I have to agree. While the movie looked great on an IMAX screen, frankly I wish I had just stayed home and used the ticket money to rent the movie in a few months or watch it as a cheaper matinee. Actually, in a weird way this movie is almost the worst of the four because it achieved something that only Revenge of the Fallen came close to – it actually bored me.

Transformers 4 in China Featurette

Below is a very short featurette that focuses on filming Transformers: Age of Extinction in China. Thanks to Feris O. for the link.

Transformers: Age of Extinction FAQ

io9.com has posted another one of their amusing and very sarcastic "FAQ" that breaks down all the story and characters problems with a movie, this time with a focus on Transformers: Age of Extinction. the FAQ focuses on the story, not the special effects resulting in highlighting that once you ignore the eye candy, Bayformers 4 falls apart. SPOILER WARNING as it pretty much covers all the movies story beats. If you have seen the movie (or don't mind spoilers), be sure to check out the AOE FAQ here. Then come back here and let us know if agree or not.

Transformers 4 Big Red Commercial

Here is the new Transformers 4 commercial for the Big Red drinks. Compared to all the other tie-in stuff, it is definitely a unique approach as it kind of celebrates geekdom. Have to admit was kind of digging that Autobot ring. Thanks to Feris O. for the link.

New Transformers 4 "Transformers Are Dangerous" Video

It is kind of shame that Transformers 4 didn't do a better job with the whole "Transformers Are Dangerous" marketing campaign as the idea on its own could have been very interesting to explore since the movie didn't. Any case below is the latest.

The Sound of Transformers: Age of Extinction

From Soundworks Collection, below is a vid that gets into how the sounds were created for Transformers: Age of Extinction that often came from unexpected places. For example the sound of rusted Optimus Prime truck actually came from a monster truck while Lockdown had a deliberate homage to Darth Vader. Apparently there was moments of sound used from the classic Generation One cartoon (I think they were referring to the phone ring tone).

More Detailed Look At Transformers: Age of Extinction VFX

While Transformers: Age of Extinction had a host of flaws, once again ILM brought their A game to the movie with some great visual effects. An extended article from FXGuide.com provides a more detailed looked into how they did their work, much more than could attempt to summarize on the blog. Check out the full article here.

More Concept Art from Transformers: Age of Extinction

More concept art from Transformers: Age of Extinction has been posted online. This time it is the art created by Wesley Burt for the movie with a focus on the Dinobots, Crosshairs, Hound, and Drift. I didn't see a date for it but you can see the different takes that were considered for the characters. The full gallery is here.

The Cars of Transformers 4 Featurette

Below is a Transformers: Age of Extinction featurette that focuses the new vehicles being used in the movie. Thanks to Feris O. for the link.

Transformers 4 Makes $301.3 Million In First Opening Weekend

The early estimates are in and Transformers: Age of Extinction is clearly an international success with a worldwide first weekend take of $301.3 million despite near universal dislike of the film by critics. The movie just hit its $100 million goal in the United States, the first movie to do that in 2014. The movie's foreign total was $201.3 which includes a record breaking $90 million bow from China that is likely to trigger more "cooperation agreements" between the Chinese government and Hollywood (so get ready for even more ham-fisted commercial "breaks" in the movies). In Russia it had a $21.7 million debut (2nd of all time for that country) and in South Korea it had its largest opening of the year at $21.5 million. Net result is the movie is currently 35% ahead of Dark of the Moon so it is on target to cross the $1 billion threshold. I expect TF4 to take a 50+% nosedive in the States but that is normal after such a large opening. The real attention remains on foreign gross as that will determine if that $1 billion threshold is crossed.

Transformers 4 Score and Soundtrack Updates

I am guessing the sales on the previous score and soundtrack albums were not so hot has nothing has been released this go around to coincide with the release of the film. Having said that, something is still in the works since a digital release of albums is a minor cost compared to printing CDs. On the soundtrack front we have a list of the tracks that will be included while on the score side composer Steve Jablonsky provided some updates via his Facebook page and Hitfix.

"The amazing Patricia Sullivan is mastering the score album today. Dinobots roll out!"

$200 Million in "Promotional Value" for Transformers 4

If you have seen Transformers: Age of Extinction, you probably couldn't help but notice that at times it came just short of having the actors look at the camera and spout off some product slogan. It turns out that was intentional as the promotional might practically paid for the movie to get made.

“For us, Transformers is the big daddy of partnership opportunities,” LeeAnne Stables, Paramount worldwide marketing partnerships executive vp, told The Hollywood Reporter. The exec estimated that those partnerships add up to a global promotional value of more than $200 million.

Transformers 4 Has Largest Opening Day of the Year

It looks like Transformers: Age of Extinction will easily meet is $100 million opening weekend goal as it took it $41.6 million just on Friday in the United States. As a result the weekend estimate is nudged up to $104 but will know in a few days. This makes for the largest opening day of the year.

Target, Best Buy Exclusives Announced

With Amazon revealing their exclusive, it seems Target and Best Buy felt they had to do the same for the Blu-ray release of Transformers: Age of Extinction. Best Buy gets a Steelbook edition for $24.99 while Target's is an Optimus Prime Transforming package for $22.99 that is of the variety they used for previous TF movie releases. Both are available for pre-order now but keep in mind there is no release day for the movie so it will be months before you get it.

Transformers 4 Concept Art from Robert Simons

Over at his website, movie concept artist Robert Simons has posted multiple images of his concept art for Transformers: Age of Extinction. His art mostly focused on designs for Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, Lockdown and his ship. Of note though is the dates on the art are around 9/27/2009 which is two months after Revenge of the Fallen was released. Does that indicate that Lockdown was in early consideration for Dark of the Moon? Maybe the TF4 story was being tossed around for TF3 until chose a different direction? Any case you can hit the link above to view his work or the mirror of the images here.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Limited Edition Blu-Ray Gift Set for Pre-Order

Even though Transformers 4 has just been released to theaters, already Amazon is offering a Blu-ray edition of the movie. The Transformers: Age of Extinction Limited Edition Gift set will include the combo Blu-ray of the movie along with a Grimlock and Optimus Prime Collectible statue for the current pre-order price of $79.99. No indication is made of what material is is made off so hard to tell if that is a good price or not. Amazon's description:

Only at Amazon – Transformers: Age of Extinction Blu-Ray Combo Pack gift set includes a highly detailed collectible figure of Optimus Prime riding Grimlock. The Optimus and Grimlock figures have been crafted utilizing the very same digital models that brought the characters to life in the film. Every sculptural detail of Optimus and Grimlock has been perfectly captured and enhanced with hand-painting, from Optimus’ flame-detailed chest and forearms to Grimlock’s fiery, glowing eyes. Together, Optimus and Grimlock stand over 7.25 inches tall (display base height included), and Grimlock stretches approx. 9 inches from his toothy maw to tail tip. The Transformers: Age of Extinction Optimus and Grimlock figure is a must-have for any Transformers fan, and is available only at Amazon.

Currently there is no release date (but I suspect around October) nor any details on what special features will be on the set. This is an Amazon exclusive. If you order, please use the links in this post so this site gets credit for the purchase.

Transformers 4 Thursday Night Box Office Results

Even though the movie has only been out for a day, already there are a few box office results to report. For its sneak preview Thursday night opening, the movie earned $8.8 million in the US which is less than Transformers: Dark of the Moon but don't read into that. In the last three years, midnight releases went from uncommon to very common to now being 8 to 9pm night before releases for almost every single movie that comes out (the exceptions are rare instead of vice versa). The only reason studios don't plaster a Thursday release date on their movies is it could lead to confusion for matinee goers in the US.

Transformers: Age of Extinction's VFX Supervisor Talks Robot Complexity

In an interview with Gizmodo, Transformers franchise visual effects supervisor Scott Farrar discussed the complexity of creating the robots for Transformers: Age of Extinction and how each film is actually harder to do despite improvements in technology. Highlights below, full article here.

"We've all been students of how to make the Transformers characters look more real, more metallic, better acting, more photographically real in each of the films. Certainly the robots look better than they have before in this one. They're sharper, the colors are more detailed, and the biggest change is, I think, the large amount of work that we had that was all robots, lots and lots of shots in the film don't have human actors in them at all. In fact, our work accounts for about 90 minutes of the movie. It's data-heavy, it's the largest film I've ever done, and it's the largest data push through in ILM history.

New Clip, TV Spots, and Viral Videos for Transformers: Age of Extinction

Transformers: Age of Extinction is now out in various parts of the world and the marketing machine continues. Below is a clip (whose location should look familiar as the Detroit China set), two more TV spots and a viral video warning citizens to report Transformers sightings. Thanks to Feris O. for the link.

Bizarre History of Transformers' The Touch

Vulture has written an interesting (for TF fans anyway) article that traces the history of Stan Bush's The Touch from 1986's Transformers: The Movie, through Boogie Nights and to today with interviews from Bush himself and few other Hollywood types that have used the song over its nearly 30 year history. The full article is here.

Critics TV Spot for Transformers: Age of Extinction

Below is a new 15 second spot for Transformers: Age of Extinction. I can't help but wonder if quotes are either taken out of context or if those are the "critics" that essentially exist to write happy things for the studios to use (there are more of that type then might think).

Transformers: Age of Extinction Out Now

Just in case you were not away, in the US, China and other parts of the world Transformers: Age of Extinction is now out (or has been for at least half a day). Overall critics hate the movie without about the same level of disdain as they did the previous three movies with almost the same identical complaints. The summation, which applies to all four films now, comes down to fantastic visual effects combined with a poor story, paper thin characters, indistinguishable (in personality and look) Transformers characters and too long a run time. The current Metacritic score is 31% while Rotten Tomatoes is at 13%. Too early to see what the audience things on those sites but feel free to add your thoughts on the movie in the comments below.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Tracking for $100 Million US Debut

Paramount's tracking indicates that Transformers: Age of Extinction will enjoy a huge weekend with a $100+ million debut in the United States. Transformers: Dark of the Moon enjoyed a $97.9 opening weekend but if I recall correctly it opened two days early were this one is opening with the usual Thursday night "preview" that all the summer films have been doing. Generally the higher the opening the long "legs" the movie has in theaters which will help its overall totals. Not always true but suspect that TF4 will stick with its processors' habit of opening big and then dropping around 50% each successive weekend. On a related note Amazon Local is offering movie tickets for $7 (that covers up to a $14 ticket value) from Fandango.com (Regal and other theaters). If interested click here but read through the details as from what I read it requires using the tickets all at once (so buy 4, must use all four at once). I guess you could just do a bunch of separate transactions. Thanks to Wynton R. for the AOE souvenir cup image that might be found at your local theater.

Peltz, Reynor Talk Green Broom Sticks for Transformers

In an interview with io9.com, Transformers: Age of Extinction's Nicola Peltzand Jack Reynor talk about working with the green broom sticks and using their imagination to act against Transformers. Highlights below, full interview here. Thanks to Feris O. for the movie still.

What was it like for you as actors working with characters who were largely CG?

"Calling All Autobots" in New TV Spots

Below in a kind of extended edit of five combined TV spots are two new one that include a few new scenes. The new spots start at the 1:29 point. Thanks to Feris O. for heads-up.

Five New TV Spots and Clip For Transformers: Age of Extinction

After a bit of a break over the weekend, Paramount has played catch-up with five new TV spots and a clip for Transformers: Age of Extinction. The first four TV spots might include a brief second or so of new stuff but the fifth clip is almost all new stuff. As for the clip, it is a scene between Cade and Shane as they try to get into a government facility. Everything after the break. Thanks to Feris O. for the links and this cool "unofficial" still of Galvatron firing on Optimus since it wasn't part of the official batch.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Score Coming Soon

In a post to his Facebook page, Transformers: Age of Extinction composer indicated that the score soundtrack to the movie will be coming soon.

"It was recommended to me that I start an official Facebook page (since there are other Steve Jablonsky pages that claim to be official), so here it is. Over there we will keep you up to date on things like the Transformers soundtrack, which just a few of you have asked me about I'm very sorry for the lack of information, but rest assured it is in progress and we will have details for you soon. I would tell you now but I'm not quite sure myself. I do know that the music is done!

Li Bingbing Talks Working with Bay on Transformers 4

In a new interview with Collider, Transformers: Age of Extinction's Li Bingbing discussed working with Michael Bay and working the film's action scenes. Video below. The main highlights is she said she did the film to work with Michael Bay and liked how he made sure she looked great in the film. Due to her fighting skills, Bay had the elevator sequence added to the film.

Di Bonaventure: Unicron, GI Joe vs Tranformers?

After stating that Transformers 4 was not the start of an official trilogy of films, Transformers producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura put the kibosh on some long held Transformers fan dreams in regards to Unicron making an appearance and maybe a live action Transformers vs G.I. Joe in an interview with MTV during the Hong Kong world premiere of the movie. Video below.

Unicron: “The problem with Unicron is how big it is,” he said. “It’s boring, that big. How do you stop it? We’ll get there, but when is a good question.”

GI Joe: “No, we haven’t spent a moment,” Di Bonaventura said. “It’s hard enough to figure how to do it alone.”

Transformers: Rise of the Dark Spark Out Now with Launch Trailer

Today is the official release date of Transformers: Rise of the Dark Spark on all the major consoles. Wii U and 3DS versions are missing multiplayer but from what have seen of Escalation Mode it probably doesn't matter. The retail price is $60 for PS4 and XB1, $50 for PS3, 360, WiiU, and PC and $30 for 3DS. I have not seen any good deals on the game. Gamestop has an okay one that might be worth looking into for some with a poster and e-movie tickets but the offer is for today only. Click here for details. Update: Added launch trailer.

New Stills from Transformers: Age of Extinction

Transformers: Age of Extinction is almost here. Pretty sure the TV spot onslaught will continue but until then head over to Bleeding Cool to view 20 images for the movie. Some look like repeats but most are new.

Michael Bay Recommends IMAX 3D for Transformers 4

In a letter posted on MichaelBay.com, the director himself posted a note recommended that the best way to view Transformers: Age of Extinction is IMAX 3D with ATMOS Sound. Most theaters in the US and around the world are not equipped for either but for the lucky few it might be worth looking into. His note below or link above. Thanks to Mackie U for the heads-up.

The best way to see this movie is definitely in IMAX 3D.

By far.

Video Review of Transformers 4 Toys Lockdown

Below is a video review of Transformers: Age of Extinction deluxe Lockdown which I am have yet to see on store shelves. One of the interesting aspects is the head gun gimmick. Sadly his head doesn't transform into a gun but instead of hand gun fits over his head so can re-create those moments from the trailers and TV spots.