A new era for The Transformers begins! Lost and far from the war on their home world Cybertron, both the Autobots and Decepticons are stranded on Earth. The only one capable of defending the Earth is Optimus Prime, leader of the autobots. What awaits the people of Earth? Is Optimus Prime willing to defend humanity? Or abandon it?
What I like about this Transformers series is that it doesn’t feel like it’s a Transformers series by a company, it’s in the hands of an auteur whose style and tone makes this series feel uniquely different from what’s come before. Johnson is fantastic at allowing for the story to show more than tell, giving the book a solid pace that is generally fast-paced. Johnson knows how to write Optimus Prime and the Autobots superbly, presenting their nobility through the action as they fight their new war on Earth. Oftentimes with Transformers stories, it tends to feel like a drag when the stories are more focused on human characters, but Johnson finds a sweet spot balancing Spike’s interpersonal life with Optimus’ journey as they’re two individuals trying to find their place in the world amidst all of the chaos that surrounds them. There are some parallels to be found amongst Optimus, Spike, and his father that readers will appreciate. While there is the human element, Johnson doesn’t forget that this is a Transformers book, delivering cool sequences full of action, danger, and intensity.
Stylistically, you know what you’re in for when you read a comic series written and illustrated by Daniel Warren Johnson, and he doesn’t disappoint in the art department. Every page and panel exudes enthusiasm for the material drawn. Whether it’s the quiet moments with Spike and his dad, Spike, and Carly, or the choreographed battles that the Autobots and Decepticons amongst themselves, readers will see the effort and care that Johnson displays on the page. From double-page spreads to panel compositions and choices, Johnson and color artist Mike Spicer showcase their skills as an artistic duo, guiding the reader through the story and action with clarity. Rus Wooton is the other ingredient of the art team trifecta, providing beautiful lettering that is stylistic, distinctive, and distinguishable to the characters in this book. It’s a visual feast for the eyes that compliments the story brilliantly. This is a great jumping-on point for Transformers fans of various generations looking to see a different interpretation that is stylistic and different, yet true to what’s come before while forging something new. Add this to your pull list for New Comic Book Day.
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