Peter Cullen On Doing Dark of the Moon and Optimus

To help promote the home video release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon the voice of Optimus Prime, Peter Cullen, briefly spoke with MovieWeb about working on the film.

I know how the process of voicing an animated character works, but how does it work on a live-action movie like this? How early in the process are you coming in to do the voice? Can you talk about how that process works?
Peter Cullen: Well, the difference between the animated version, going back to Generation One, and the action version, the human involvement is highlighted and Optimus finds himself communicating on a human level more than ever before. Not that he didn't before, but it's much more obvious now. Certainly in Transformers: Dark of the Moon, he begins to show more human emotions than he ever did before, including anger. These are all factors that create new challenges.

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Transformers: Dark of the Moon Out Now

Transformers: Dark of the Moon is now available at retail (at least in the US) starting today. The movie comes in two versions - 1-disc DVD and combo pack of 1 Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy. Note this is for the movie only. There are no special features. The 3D Blu-ray Ultimate pack with special features is expected to be released in time for Christmas (the combo packs comes with $10 off coupon for this).

With Blu-ray release you have variations of covers. There is the Wal-Mart exclusive Sentinel Cover (unclear if it’s a combo pack) and the Best Buy Bumblebee & Shockwave slip cover. There are rumors of other case versions but not have heard of them being released stateside.

The sale prices have all been around $19.99 for the Blu-ray combo pack and $17.99 for just the DVD. So far the cheapest I have seen the combo pack is $17.99 at Best Buy and Fry's. If you are interested in just renting the movie for video on demand streaming the price is $4.99 for HD and $3.99 for SD. Personally I am going to skip spending any money and just wait it out for the Ultimate Pack.

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IDW December Transformers Comics

IDW Publishing has released their publishing plans for December that concludes the Chaos storyline that ends with "The Death of Optimus Prime" issue. Two comics and one trade are being released that month. If you are interested in the books, just let your local comic book store know. For the full details of IDW's other books including GI Joe, Star Trek, and more click here.

Transformers: The Death of Optimus Prime
John Barber, James Roberts (w) • Nick Roche (a) • Nick Roche, Photo Cover (c)
Celebrating 125 issues of IDW’s Transformers! After Chaos, Optimus Prime's fate was shrouded in mystery. Was he truly gone or could there be a way he had emerged unscathed? Now, Optimus sits in contemplation, in a place he does not recognize as home. And with the cost of the battle finally taking its brutal toll, does Optimus Prime even have the will to carry on? CHAOS changed everything, and Transformers #125 sets a new direction for the Autobot leader…
• 2 regular covers will be shipped in a 4-to-1 ratio (4 Photo, 1 Nick Roche)
• FC • 32 pages • $3.99
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Transformers: Prime One Shall Rise Clip

Below is a clip from the first part of the three part season finale for Transformers: Prime. The last episode ended with an epic fight (really one of the best designed fights see between the two) with Megatron apparently winning as Dark Energon is ejected from a volcanic eruption. Various hints from previous episodes indicate this may be a prelude of the introduction of the Prime version of Unicron. (via TFW2005)

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DOTM Home Video "Changes" Ad

A new ad for the home release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon was posted via twitter called Changes. Below is the YouTube embed via TFW2005.

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Transformers Linkfest - Masterpiece Prime

Time for another link fest. This one is fairly focused on official Transformers toys including a look at the new Masterpiece version of Optimus Prime, a new DOTM toy, more 3rd party stuff and three reviews.

Masterpiece Optimus Prime 2.0 Released - MP-10 | Coin | Packaging | Comparison
The new version, with new mold, of Optimus Prime has now been released from Takara. MP-10 is the most cartoon accurate version of Prime released so far that comes with a mini-Spike action figure along with his trailer modeled on the G1 version. This is a very expensive toy costing around $250 from the usual importer websites (TFSource, Bigbadtoystore, etc) but he does look pretty sweet. Hopefully video reviews will pop up soon so I can make a decision on spending that kind of money. Depending on the company's supplier (Japan or China), your figure might also come with a coin. Hit the links above to view galleries of this must have figure of any Optimus Prime fan. On a related note, it seems Takara is testing the idea of releasing a Masterpiece Ultra Magnus based on this figure. Back in the 80s, Magnus was a while repaint of Optimus Prime with a trailer that the cab fit into. This version seems to make use of the recent development from 3rd party makers (see Fansproject's City Commander) to create a trailer that breaks down into the needed component parts to form the Magnus look. It’s just a test so this may never happen (but don't be surprised if someone fills the void anyway).
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The Hub of Transformers Tour

Hasbro's The Hub network along with Blockbuster video (they still around?) have announced a fall tour to promote the network, the season finale of Transformers: Prime, the home video release of Dark of the Moon and the upcoming Transformers: The Ride in 3D that is opening in Universal Studios Hollywood next year. The tour is currently schedule to run from 9/30 to 10/22 hitting 8 Blockbuster stores in six states. The tour is supported with a Facebook contest for chance "to be among first to experience" Transformers: The Ride and will have the Bumblebee Camaro or Sideswipe Corvette on hand. Based on the dates, the tour has two traveling caravans with a TF car attached to each. Below are the locations, click here for the full press release along with mockups of what the tour will look like.
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Transformers: Dark of the Moon Ultimate Edition, Slipcase, Ad

The HD Room was able to score an early copy of the upcoming release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon and learned just a touch more about the "deluxe" edition that is planned for release later this year. They confirmed the DVD and Blu-ray release is just the movie without any bonus features. It also comes with a $10 off coupon for the "Ultimate Edition with Blu-ray 3D" for DOTM that will come with Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, DVD, and Digital copy. Again no information on extra features or when the ultimate edition will come out. This re-enforces that there is absolutely no reason to buy the movie when it is released on September 30th until Paramount releases the details on these later editions.
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Tyrese Predicts Bay, LaBeouf Return for Transformers 4

In an interview with MovieWeb to promote the release of Fast Five, Tyrese Gibson provided the prediction that Michael Bay and Shia LaBeouf will return for Transformers 4.

"My humble prediction would be that... we're at $1.1 billion. This is the biggest year of my life. I'm on the other side of $1.7 billion in box office receipts, between both films. I think, with the success of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, both Michael Bay and Shia probably want a break from the franchise, but there's no way, I believe, that, at some point, they're not going come back to do Transformers 4. Maybe they need a few years to get a few other creative things out of their system, which is understandable, but for people to love this franchise around the world like they do, its damn-near crazy to not give the fans what they love and enjoy again. So maybe two years, maybe three years will go by, you never know, but I believe, and hope, that we are able to do another Transformers. I'm a real Transformers fan, outside of the fact that I'm in the movie, but I just hope we're able to do it again one day. It's the first film in Paramount's 99-year history that has ever grossed $1 billion. I hope we're able to figure this out."

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Transformers #26 Preview

The Transformers' Chaos storyline continues at comic book stores tomorrow with Transformers #26. Since it is an even numbered issue, event return to Cybertron and The Autobots prepare for Galvatron and decide what to do with the Megatron. The covers and first 8 pages of the issue can be found here.

Mike Costa, James Roberts (w) • Livio Ramondelli (a) • Livio Ramondelli x 2 (c)
“CHAOS” rages on! A hole is punched through to the core of Cybertron itself—but what for? Where’s Galvatron?! And why is Megatron, deep in the Autobot base and stuck in his cell, laughing? It all spells one thing—TROUBLE with a capital “Crush the Heroes!” CHAOS part 2, in which things go from bad, to holy-hell-how-are-we-gonna-get-out-of-this-alive!!!
FC • 32 pages • $3.99 • 2 regular covers will be shipped in a 1-to-1 ratio.

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Transformers Linkfest - Merged

Time for another linkfest. With the Dark of the Moon news down to just the upcoming home video releases and repaints, figured time to merge this stuff into one. Have not decided if will start seperating this stuff out yet into a bunch of seperate posts or not. What do you think? This method easier or prefer five or six individual posts? Any case, the latest is a TF pinball machine, a look at more 3rd party figures, TF Prime concept art, repaints and a review.

iGear Masterpiece Cartoon Seekers
Third party Transformers maker iGear announced the next two toys in their not Masterpiece line. They are release cartoon version of not Starscream (December 31st) and not Skywarp (April 30th, 2012) that is based on their modified mold from Takara's Masterpiece Starscream that was released three or so years ago. The newish mold started with their recently released conehead seekers where the back leg wings have been modifed to eliminate the ball joint connection at the hip resulting in a better looking figure. Based on the coneheads, the retail cost will probably be around $130 each.

iGear's not Sharticon
Speaking of iGear, they also revealed the near final look at their next not Generation One Transformeer knockoff with a look at their not Sharkicons based on the Quintessons' evil minions from Transformers: The Movie. Not sure on size, release date, or cost. Keep hoping they will be so cheap that you could practically create an army of them but not holding my breath on that.
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Various New Transformers Home Video News

A pieces of news in regards to Transformers: Dark of the Moon and Transformers: Prime for home video.

For DOTM release you can add a new case type on top of a steelcase and alt cover with a Transforming Megatron case, at least in Germany. No idea how widespread these alt cases will be in the other countries but if previous history is a guide usually they become store exclusives somewhere in other regions. Speaking of other regions, it seems Germany is getting the movie on November 10th and the UK on November 28th. Also below is the HD version of the US release commercial thanks to JosephNCali.

Shout Factory has announced the December 6th release of Transformers: Prime - Darkness Rising on DVD. The mini-series was the initial five episodes that launched the series last October. Their press release can be found here. The retail price is $14.97 but Amazon currently has it for pre-order at $10.49. Personally I am just going to wait until a season box set comes out.

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Tech Behind Transformers 3 Race Scenes

While my knowledge of films is limited, I do enjoy reading about the tech that is created to help create the movies we love such as Transformers: Dark of the Moon's complex, dangerous vehicle chase sequences. Even though we often think in terms of digital effects, there is still a whole lot of tech required to create the practical shots of cars moving at high speeds for whatever a scene may require. These scenes require specialized equipment designed to get up close to capture the thrill of the chase. Two separate articles from Jalopnik and Gizmodo get into the details of this equipment seen on many sets of movies, TV shows and commercials.
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"Transform Your Treat" With Hostess Contest

As promised by Paramount's press release on the home video release of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Hostess has started their "Transform Your Treat" contest for a chance to win $25,000. The contest, which runs from September 12th to October 16th, is supported by a TF themed website and limited edition TF named snack food. The boxes (below) will also include a $4 rebate on the purchase of the movie. Press release below.

TRANSFORM YOUR TREAT WITH HOSTESS®
FOR A CHANCE TO WIN $25,000
This Halloween Hostess joins with “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” to offer an online sweepstakes with exciting prizes
Irving, TX, September 14, 2011 - Hostess®, maker of America's most iconic snack cakes, is partnering with Paramount Home Entertainment this Halloween to offer consumers a chance to win a grand prize of $25,000 and a host of other “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” prizes with the “Transform Your Treat” instant win game. As part of the alliance, Hostess is also introducing limited-edition TRANSFORMERS-themed snack cakes featuring OPTIMUS PRIME®, SHOCKWAVE™, BUMBLEBEE™, and SENTINEL PRIME™ from the box-office blockbuster movie, based on the iconic Hasbro TRANSFORMERS brand, in grocery stores across the country.

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Transformers Finalist for Toy Hall of Fame

Transformers, the brand as a whole, is one of 12 finalists to join The National Toy Hall of Fame in 2011. The Toy Hall of Fame announced the 12 finalists yesterday, 7 of which are Hasbro properties. The competition is stiff for Transformers as the others finalists include Dollhouse, Dungeons & Dragons, Hot Wheels, Jenga, Pogo Stick, Puppet, R/C Vehicles, Rubik's Cube, Simon, Star Wars action figures, and Twister.

As you may have noticed some of the inductees are not a trademarked brand but more of the toy concept like previous inductees the kite, jump rope or checkers. The winner will be based on icon-status, longevity, encouraging learning & creativity, and innovation. Something Transformers has in spades. One November 10th, the two winners will be announced. You can find the full list of previous winners here. Below is the full press release. Read More »

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Transformers: Dark of the Moon Steelcase, Sentinel Cover (Updated)

Two new cases for Transformers: Dark of the Moon have popped up online. Amazon Germany has posted the DOTM Triple Play Steelcase featuring Prime and Bumblebee. In the meantime, Wal-Mart will have its own exclusive Sentinel Prime Blu-ray cover that appears to be just the Blu-ray disc for DOTM. Perfect for those not interested in getting an extra DVD and digital download code.

Based on the press release, the 9/30 release is just the movie. No extra bells and whistles which is being saved for a later release, possibly in December. As a result of this lack of information, I continue to maintain that no one should buy the movie until can make an informed decision on which version to buy to avoid being forced to buy duplicate copies of the movie.



Update: A new ad of the upcoming release, promoting "Transformers Friday" has started airing. I saw it last night on Comedy Central. Thanks to Prime, here is a better quality version of the video.

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Transformers: Dark of the Moon Home Video Press Release

An unintentional leak over a week ago confirmed that Transformers: Dark of the Moon is coming to Blu-ray and DVD on September 30, 2011. Paramount has finally got around releasing an official press release confirming their own leak. As Nelson indicated, the 9/30 release is for just the movie with no bells and whistles as these will be "followed by a deluxe Blu-ray and DVD release, including a Blu-ray 3D, in the coming months."

The assessment that the editions will come in around December makes the most sense as Paramount will want to take advantage of the holiday buying season. What does not make any sense is for anyone to buy these "standard" editions come the end of the month until all the information is revealed on what the "deluxe" and 3D editions of the movie will have as far as extras so buyers can make an informed decision on what version to buy. In my opinion, unless the deal is too fantastic to pass up (say $5 for Blu-ray version) you should not buy a single copy of this movie until Paramount releases the details on the deluxe editions. Press release below.
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DOTM Linkfest - Customs

Yet another Transformers: Dark of the Moon link fest and the toy and related news continues to trickle in. Below are few galleries to upcoming toys, a video review and two custom jobs that take two DOTM to the next level.

Leader Class Prowl Custom
Hit the link to view a gallery and how-to on this very sweet custom leader class Prowl created by autobotx23 that sold for $339 on eBay. The figures core is Leader class Bumblebee with parts from leader Brawl, leader Megatron, Sentinel Prime, Halo figures, and more. The result is just a ton of Transformer goodness.

Hasbro's DOTM Wave 5 Gallery
Hit the link for the deluxe class Wave 5 Transformers: DOTM toys. Not entirely sure when these are coming out but guessing in a few months. The line-up includes Armor Topspin (repaint), Darksteel (bio, repaint), and Air Raid (new mold).
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Transformers 3 Special Editions in December?

The other day we learned that Transformers: Dark of the Moon home video release is officially scheduled for September 30th, at least in the US. Leaks have indicated that there will be a "Triple Pack" of Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Copy and a seperate 1-disc DVD. Something confirmed by images from Play.com which also includes images of the DVD Trilogy Box Set and suggested something called the "3D Super Play" (while reusing the regular Blu-ray cover) but no details past that. We have also learned that a Blu-rayTransforming Trilogy Set is in the works. To make your buying decisions even more complicated, Nelson reveals that it there might actually be two release dates.

On the Shoot for the Edit forums, he commented on the planned release date saying "I thought it was October for the regular set, and December for the different Special Editions." He then further elaborated on this saying, "The first is just the movie. The second is the 2-disc Special Edition set. And the 3rd is the trilogy (6 disc) in a special metal encasement. There might be different versions of this across the globe. That box in the form of the Autobot logo is one of the early concepts for the international trilogy."

The questions become buy the third movie on Sept. 30th? Wait for the box set? What about those that already own the first two movies? A "special metal encasement" might make double-dipping a little easier, depending on the price. What we still don't know is anything about the 3D edition, the extra features or even official confirmation of the various editions and their pricing. For a movie that is now about three weeks from coming out, the silence from Paramount on the details is starting to get very odd.

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Transformers #25 Preview

Hitting shelves on September 7th is the Transformers #25, part 1 of the "The Last Story in Earth" which is part of the Choas storyline. I think the idea is even issues of the series will take place on Cybertron focusing on the main Chaos story while the odd issues take place on Earth as a lead up to a decision to leave Earth. Below is the covers and first seven pages of the TF #25 from Issuu.

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