More From Transformers 3 Chevy Road Show

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

Read More »

Transformers 3 Chevy Road Show

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

Botcon 2011 Day 1 & 2 Linkfest

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

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

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

Asian DOTM Toy Site Launch and Other Toy Links

The official release of the Transformers: Dark of the Moon toy line is just days away, at least in the United States. Depending on where you live it may have already arrived. Here is more links to galleries and reviews of upcoming DOTM products including the first look at the full body of the reformatted Megatron. But first the links start a website that is perfect for putting together your toy wish list.

Dark of the Moon Toys R Us WebsiteThe Asian side of Toys R Us has launched their website to support the upcoming worldwide launch of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toy line. The Toys R Us website covers China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan but they are using the Hasbro packaging so the information applies to North America and Europe. The region is getting the toys a few days earlier than the US with China starting today and the other countries tomorrow.

The main value of the website is in the Product section that provides a breakdown of the Wave 1 toys by class with in and out of package images for each toy along the toy bio. Very useful for creating that wish list. The site also has a Character section with the CGI headshots, bio and tech specs for each character that will be available in the toy line at launch. Thanks to Feris Othman for the link.Read More »

Many DOTM Toys Galleries and Reviews

T-minus five six days and counting for the official release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toy line on May 15th 16th. At least in the United States. I am unclear if this date is worldwide but assuming so. I got way behind on the various DOTM galleries but consider this a quick way to catch up and more importantly check out some of the various size molds and exclusives that are in the pipeline. At this point the issue is more of which version or versions to get as it seems most of the key characters have around 3 or more sizes, repaints, or exclusives coming. In addition, below are more video reviews because that also helps in working on that DOTM wish list. Oops got the date confused.

DOTM Galleries Part 1
Kre-0 | Human Alliance Roadbuster & Tailpipe | Deluxe Prime | HA Bee and Skids (repaints) | Exclusive Figures | Deluxe Arcee and Air Raid (repaints) | Scan Series I | Scan Series II
This first set provides another look at the Kre-O (Lego knockoff) line, more Human Alliance figures, and a summary of many of the exclusive figures that may hit toy shelves soon. Of this group probably the one most worth checking out is the Scan Series images which are Toys R Us exclusives and give the deluxe class of DOTM toys a pretty unique look. TRU tends to charge more for their exclusives but just might be worth it for some of the figures.Read More »

Dark of the Moon Comic Adaptation Preview Reveals Story Spoilers (Updated)

Per the request of Transformers: Dark of the Moon producer Don Murphy, the copyrighted images and spoilers have been removed. Due to the content of the comments, they have been cut off.

Amazon.com has posted a preview of the official comic book adaptation of Transformers: Dark of the Moon scheduled for release on May 25th. If you click the cover or "Search inside this book" you get about the first seven and last seven pages of the trade. A system error revealed more pages than intended leading to major story points being revealed.

I don't consider characters and alt modes to be spoilers. So knowing that, I will reveal that the leaked images did confirm that Soundwave's alt mode is the silver Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG as indicated by the game image. Also Wheeljack is a confirmed Autobot in the movie but I saw only has his name being said. Did not see his robot mode or vehicle mode to confirm if "Einstein", the blue 2011 Mercedes-Benz E550.

It should be noted that adaptations usually work from a final movie script along with designs and storyboards offered by production. However, as Sir Peter Jackson points out, there are three phases to a script - writing it, filming it and editing it. As a result what the comic shows for a scene and what the movie shows may not be the same. Certain elements like the major plot points, characters, etc tend to stay static due to cost but the specific details can easily change (scenes, characters, etc being left on cutting room floor).

If you wish to seek out the spoilers, that is up to you. Be warned the pages did reveal major plot and character developments in the story. If you are even a little bit sensitive about spoilers it is advised to not seek out that information.

Countdown To Trailer Spaceship Image

While it isn't a Transformer, can't say I am complaining as Apple Trailers has posted the third movie still from Transformers: Dark of the Moon before the trailer debuts Thursday at 7PM EST. The image of a Decepticon spaceship joins Shockwave and Carly stills released in the last two days. Also Apple posted the Bumblebee banner without the text and watermark. Net result is now can pick your poison on wallpaper. According to MB.com admin Nelson, a fourth and final image will be posted tomorrow at 11am EST. Thanks to Feris and Sideburn for the heads-up. Update: From the comments, the DOTM Facebook page has also posted the text-less banners for Optimus and Shockwave here but the size is a bit small.

More DOTM Toy Galleries and Reviews

Another "linkfest" for Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys and related merchandise. This edition is heavy on toy images and bios which sadly reveal little about the movie but do have two new video reviews including one for leader class Ironhide. Most of the toys are expected to hit shevles on May 16th.

2000 Pound Bumblebee Cake
Carlo's Bake Shop in Hoboken, New Jersey created a massive cake for a General Motors display at the Javits Center. The cake will be featured on TLC's "Cake Boss" program on June 20th. The cake has the Bumblebee astride his Camaro alt mode. The 2000 pound creation is made of vanilla pound cake with butter-cream frosting and Rice Krispies treats to "bind the cake at critical flex points." (via AllSpark)

DOTM Mobile Game Coming (5x)
Electronic Arts is working on a mobile game around Transformers: Dark of the Moon. The leaked screenshots (at link) show a game that seems to be part side scroller with a bit of overhead "Spyhunter" type play style. On description says "“While Megatron is hiding after the disgraceful defeat, Decepticons Shockwave, the ruler of Cybertron, is preparing to visit the planet with absolutely no good intentions. The game takes place not only on Earth, but the dynamics Moon, a dark side which holds no less dark secrets." There is no indication on price or release date. Thanks to Sahara for the link.Read More »

DOTM Bumblebee Banner

Yahoo! Movies has revealed a new companion advertising banner to go with the Optimus Prime one from last week. It is an image of Bumblebee in the foreground and a near identical image of a devastated Chicago in the background. About the only difference I can tell is they added more smoke and took one ship away. Thanks to Richard P for the pic.

Even More DOTM Toy Galleries

All remains basically dead on the Transformers: Dark of the Moon movie front. Sadly nothing either to verify if the trailer is coming next week either. In the meantime here is more toy stuff. Hit links below to view galleries of Optimus Prime with trailer, more Shockwave, Roadbuster and Jolt along with hints possible new additions to the DOTM toy line like Takara’s version of the combined Prime w/ trailer mode, human alliance Bumblebee and more.

Voyager Optimus Prime with Trailer (3x) A Japan Yahoo Auction provides a look at a version of Optimus Prime that currently has not been confirmed for American or European release. This version has voyager Optimus Prime with his trailer that currently is just a shell. Knowing Takara, it wouldn't surprise me if they have plans for that shell.

Voyager Sentinel Prime and Other Sets Speaking of the Japan market, while no pictures are provided Kapow Toys reports three new toys are joining the DOTM line there. Sentinel Prime is getting a voyager class release and two sets of around $100 each are planned - "#430254 T/F G1CONVOY & Movie OPTIMUS w/TRAILER" and "#430261 T/F G1MEGATRON & Movie MEGATRON". The details beyond that are unknown so no telling if looking at new molds, re-releases, DOTM molds are what that the sets will contain. Read More »

Four New DOTM Toy Reviews

I thought about doing an April Fool's thing but considering the passion of fandom, it just seemed like it would backfire badly. So instead, here are the latest reviews of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys. Peaugh continues getting everything early with reviews of deluxes Laserbeak, Nitro Bumblebee, and Mudflap. Kapow Toys also has their own review of voyager Optimus Prime.

Laserbeak's alt mode is apparently is a jet but it just looks like a bird with little more creepy bird being the other mode. Except for the brief amusement of having him perch on Megatron's arm like did in Transformers: The Movie, there is little to the toy. Much like Ravage was for the ROTF line, he will be a future peg warmer. With Nitro Bumblebee, it seems that if you really want a DOTM Bumblebee toy, it’s a case of getting one or the other with no point in getting both. It does have a new and fairly creative transformation sequence but I see little reason to get this one over the regular deluxe 'Bee. Mudflap has same vehicle mode but different transformation sequence than his twin. Sadly he continues to suffer from the issue of simply being an ugly robot. The characters hitting the cutting room floor indicates another year of peg warming. Prime is about same as all voyager Primes. OK but not special.

Read More »

CGI Shockwave Images & Product Line Galleries

Another link fest to a bunch of Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys, accessories and books. The main highlight is a look at Shockwave in his ILM created CGI glory. I think this is the first time his look has been revealed as will appear in the movie. Previous looks were via the toy and the video game. Other items include leader Ironhide, plush toys, and more Sentinel Prime voice clips.

DOTM Junior Novelizations (4x)
Much like was done with Revenge of the Fallen; a wave of 4 children's books is being prepped around Dark of the Moon. Of note is the covers provide the first real look of Shockwave in his CGI glory. The books revealed on Amazon Japan are "Colour and Create", an Activity Book, junior novel based on the movie, and The Ultimate Guide which is info on all three movies. The planned release date is 6/9/11. Thanks to Sahara for the link.


Kre-O Figures
ACToys has revealed a little bit more details about the Kre-O Transformers line that was revealed a few months ago at the New York Toy Fair. The line is another attempt by Hasbro to enter the building blocks business that is ruled by Lego. The Lego like mini-figs alone just might make this line worthwhile. Hasbro might want to take a page from Lego and offer the mini-figs separately. (via AllSpark)Read More »

DOTM Bumblebee Review and More Toy Galleries

Still no new news on the movie front nor definitive confirmation of a new trailer with Sucker Punch. In the meantime, here is a bunch of new Transformers: Dark of the Moon toy galleries and a new Peaugh review with deluxe Bumblebee. Below are links to a look at Takara's voyager Prime, a Starscream exclusive, info on trading cards, and more images of Top Spin, Roadmaster, and Laserbeak.

Takara Voyager Optimus Prime (5x)
While the States and elsewhere are going to get the regular voyager Optimus Prime, it seems Japan will enjoy a modified version that will come with a trailer and a different MechTech weapon that can turn to a battle blade. I suspect this figure will get a release later as an exclusive for one of the major retail chains.

Target Exclusive Voyager Starscream
The toys are not even out and already Starscream has repaints for two of his classes. This time his voyager version is getting a modified paint job for Target that seems to include a darker gray paint job, gold highlights for the Cybertronian tattoos, black head and other touches.Read More »

New DOTM Toy Galleries

Things remain quiet on the Transformers: Dark of the Moon news front. The rumor of a trailer coming this Friday (3/25) remains unconfirmed but if true a sign will either come from ET advertising a sneak peek along with an uptick in behind the scene articles or interviews with cast. If neither occurs by Wednesday night then likely no new trailer. In the meantime hit the links below for more galleries of the toy line.

Official Takara DOTM Toy Images (x5)
Takara Tomy has updated their site to show off some of the upcoming Dark of the Moon toys. Most of it is nothing new but there is one of Prime with trailer that isn't the ultimate version that I don't recall seeing before. (via Seibertron)

DOTM Deluxe Thundercracker (x5)
Hit the think for gallery that compares Transformers: Dark of the Moon deluxe Starscream with his repainted counter-part Thundercracker. Identical except for weapon, it’s the same ugly robot with a prettier color scheme. No idea on release date but guessing the second or third wave in late summer.

Amazon Japan DOTM Listings with Images (x20)
Allspark has compiled a list of the various DOTM toys that are currently up on Amazon Japan. The release date there is May 14th, 2011. The images don't really show anything different that we haven't already seen.

Voyager Skyhammer (x18)
A nice look at voyager Skyhammer that shows the full potential of the toy. Peaugh already reviewed him but the images really do help you get an idea of what a solid addition he is to the DOTM line. (via Seibertron)

Nitro Bumblebee (x3)
Another deluxe Bumblebee. Hard to tell if this is a new mold with different transformation sequence as the main deluxe 'Bee figure or if they just changed to a different TechMech weapon with slight tweaks to the mold details.

Laserbeak (x4)
Four more images of Laserbeak, still no idea what the "transformer" aspect is of the toy.

Transformers Bumblebee Prop Unveiling

Thanks to Allspark's DeltaSeeker, below is a video of the unveiling of a statue depicting Bumblebee from Transformers at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. It is apparently part of the pop culture section of the museum. According to the speaker, it is the actual prop used in filming the first movie back in 2007. For more images from the event, click here.

DOTM Leader Bumblebee Video Review

Peaugh is back with a new review for Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys. This time it is leader class Bumblebee. The TechMech weapon that comes with the figure is what house the battery, lights and sound that normally is built into the figure itself. That change seems to benefit the transformation sequence but the robot mode still seems oddly bulky in the chest area. Given a choice, probably just spend the few extra bucks and upgrade to Battle Ops 'Bee.

More DOTM Toys Linkfest with Laserbeak

The Transformers: Dark of the Moon leaks seem to continue at a brisk fest. I already have enough from today alone to bring another link fest of sorts with images of upcoming releases both official and unofficial. The galleries include possible first look at the toy for Laserbeak, Nitro Bumblebee, Mudflap and in package look at various leader, voyager and deluxe class figures. Thanks to Foxtail and Sahara for links.

Deluxe Nitro Bumblebee? (x6, rest at link)
A leaked toy list indicated that Bumblebee might have more than one deluxe release for Dark of the Moon. As the images show, it seems it is more than just a repaint but not sure if that means the transformation is different. (via Allspark)


DOTM Laserbeak? (x2, below)
While unconfirmed, it is possible that TaoBao has the first look at the toy version of Laserbeak that was spotted in the Transformers Super Bowl commercial. It is about deluxe size like from the toy list but I can't figure out what the alt mode is. The G1 counterpart's alt mode was a cassette so obviously that is out. (via AllSpark)
Read More »

DOTM Toys Linkfest with Wheelie

A bunch of galleries and news relating to the Transformers: Dark of the Moon toy line. New auctions have revealed a look at Shockwave, a test shot of Sentinel Prime, and Sideswipe. There are also galleries that show off the in package look at various characters and a close look at the Stealth Force line including possibly the first look at the new orange version of Wheelie. In the video department below is a review of the first figure released at retail from DOTM along with a look at part of Hasbro’s marketing campaign for the toy line.

Shockwave in Package
The images above of Shockwave comes from a Yahoo Japan auction who is the big bad of DOTM (besides Megatron). Still not sold on the tank mode but do like the robot mode.

Stealth Force Line Images
Hit the link to check out images of the new DOTM Stealth Force line. The line seems to be about a weapon mode for the TFs as panels and the like fold back to reveals a bunch of fire power. I don't think any of these have a robot mode. I have no idea if the orange buggy below is Wheelie but the orange color is very close to his Generation One counterpart.
Read More »

Bumblebee's License Plate Through the Years

Thanks to Nevermore, here is a great breakdown of the various license plates that Bumblebee has sported over the years that he put together after someone "noticed that Bumblebee sported a "different" license plate in the Daytona 500 spot". It turns out that 'Bee has had a lot of different license plates in the movies, toys, video games and movie marketing objects. He also asks a great question that wouldn't mind seeing Hasbro or Michael Bay answer, "why do the car props differ from the robot prop that was used on set, and both differ from the CG model? Why the totally weird video game version?" (click image for larger size)

Official Images of Sentinel Prime, The Ark, and Toy Fair

In a run up to the beginning of the New York Toy Fair 2011 being held this weekend, Hasbro has released official images of three new Transformers: Dark of the Moon toys to Entertainment Weekly. The images prove officially what we all suspected. Sentinel Prime alt mode is the red fire truck, Megatron's new alt mode is worn down tanker truck and the crashed ship on the moon seen in the teaser trailer is The Ark. The Ark is not a Transformer but a kids playset while Sentinel is Leader class (not voyager as first thought) and Megs is voyager class. The pics also verify with the distinct bearded robot is the one discovered on the Ark by the Apollo 11 crew. Makes you wonder what other movie theories might be verified during the Toy Fair. Thanks to Udana for the link.

Speaking of, Hasbro's CEO Brian Goldner gave a presentation that involved Transformers. No movie details were revealed but he did say that the Dark of the Moon video game is going to be a prequel to the movie rather than a direct adaptation as was done for previous movie games. He also said on Monday, Michael Bay would be on hand to show more footage from the film. The slideshow presentation showed off the official logos of MechTech, Cyberverse, and Robot Heroes lines along with a look at the rendered Bumblebee. Thanks to KRandTFfan for the link.