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TRANSFORMERS #3 by DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON, MIKE SPICER AND RUS WOOTEN (Skybound Entertainment AND IMAGE COMICS)
As the Energon universe unfolded, Transformers secured its prime position atop every fan’s must-read list! The series’ soft reboot, designed to welcome new readers, combined with an exceptionally talented creative team steering the narrative, has ignited a buzz of anticipation month after month.
The Nerd Initiative BullPen team, brimming with enthusiasts, couldn’t resist the pull, prompting us to unite for a collective review. Join us as we delve into the latest installment and discover what our team has to say about this thrilling series!
Check Out Issue 2 Review Here!
The Writing:
Marty:
The writing truly shines as it delves into the complex struggle that humans, particularly Carley, Spike, and Sparky, face in distinguishing friend from foe among the Transformers. The breakneck pacing adds a thrilling dimension, intensifying emotionally gut-wrenching moments and keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.
Nonstop action permeates the issue, immersing readers in the Transformers’ world and amplifying the stakes. The narrative skillfully unveils the Decepticons’ motives, prompting readers to question the consequences once their goals are achieved.
Ken:
Johnson doesn’t delay in hitting fans with the dramatic action. The initial opening with mr. Whitwicky and Cliffjumper play into how humans are not fully understanding the war they have now been caught up in. This only amplifies as events progress, adding in a new dynamic to the conflict. The banter between Soundwave and Starscream is vintage Transformers.
The latter half of the book brings all parties together for a bigger battle. Johnson keys in on some emotional sequences building to one unforgettable panel. Its’ resolution starts a domino effect with readers as “business picks up” like Jim Ross would say. The closing moments further elevate an already impressive issue. If there was ever a question of why this series gets so much praise, just pick up this issue and it will leave no doubt.
Matt:
This issue certainly brought it all. From the jump it’s a fast paced tale of classic human stupidity mixed with the heroism you’d come to expect from the autobots. Seeing the shift Optimus has from hating humans to now trying to save spike shows an immense amount of growth and talent by DWJ to pull it off seamlessly.
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The Art, Colors and Letters:
Marty:
The art, characterized by Johnson’s distinctive style, paired with Spicer’s eye-popping colors, is a visual feast. The vibrant aesthetics contribute to the overall delight of the reading experience, creating a compelling atmosphere that complements the narrative.
Wooton’s lettering deserves special mention for seamlessly integrating with the art and enhancing the intensity, tone, and pacing. The onomatopoeic elements, especially during action sequences, add a dynamic layer, immersing readers further into the unfolding events.
Ken:
Johnson brings the action right from the opening page (literally). The sequence with Cliffjumper, Mr. Whitwicky and Laser-beak set a high pace that locks readers in. The panels with Starscream and Soundwave conversing bring more tension with an uttering of a single name.
Johnson captures that moment and places a great easter egg for something down the road. However, the driving force of this issue is Optimus Prime versus Skywarp. Johnson gifts Prime’s introduction with a perfect two-page image that will have readers yelling in excitement.
The fight sequences never falter. Plus as an old school pro wrestling fan, I always appreciate Johnson sliding in some moves which is perfect for this series. The action needs to be bold and daring.
This delivers each time. Once the game changing moment occurs, Johnson’s art reflects the intensity and franticness of the race against time. The issue closes with a perfect final image that readers can’t help but be excited to see where the next issue leads now.
Matt:
I’m really enjoying the 80’s cartoon vibe I get from this comic. Within each panel is a nostalgic action packed feeling that transports me back to my childhood. The colors and blending of each character stand out vibrantly in a more dark story that is unfolding.
Final Thoughts:
Marty:
With its gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and effective lettering, it stands as a testament to the creative prowess of Daniel Warren Johnson and the entire team! This issue leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this thrilling series.
Overall Grade: 9.25 out of 10
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Ken:
The war of Decepticons vs Autobots rages forward with another intense issue! Johnson combines high level drama with blockbuster art to craft a story that readers won’t be able to put down on New Comic Book Day. If you’re not reading this series, you are missing out on an experience that truly is more than meets the eye.
Overall Grade: 9 out of 10
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Matt:
This issue was fast, it was action packed, but most of all it’s emotional. We get to see the human aspect of kill everybody while the few humans understand what is happening. You’re screaming at Whitwickey at every panel to just shut up and listen already meanwhile jumping out of your chair watching Optimus beat someone down with his own detached arm. If you’re not pulling this each month then I think you just hate fun.
Overall Grade 9.5 out of 10
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Janelle:
Transformers is an interesting world overall, to get lost in. It shows and tells a lot of action, dialogue, and fast-paced movement across the pages. The art is a unique style, reminding me of an old-cartoon look, with a sprinkle of a throwback style of cartoon pages in a newspaper looked. The storytelling is also fast-paced, with dialogue that goes back and forth with easiness. It also doesn’t shy away from violence, and that makes it feel even more intriguing. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
