REVIEW: 'Transformers' #5 by Daniel Warren Johnson, Mike Spicer, and Rus Wooton

 

TRANSFORMERS #5 

Writer: Daniel Warren Johnson

Artist: Mike Spicer, Daniel Warren Johnson

Letters: Rus Wooton

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: February 14, 2024

Cover Price: $3.99

Starscream revives one of the most powerful Decepticons to eliminate the Autobots once and for all.

Score:

★★★★1/2 (4.5/5)

QUICK REVIEW: 'Transformers' continues to be an exciting action-packed adventure that runs on adrenaline and eye-popping visuals. Some critics say it relies too heavily on action and doesn't spend enough time with the human elements. I argue that Daniel Warren Johnson balances those components with precision and thought. The human element is never lost but profoundly examined efficiently and succinctly. This is never more evident than in issue five where we're reminded that this series is really a war comic and not just about the IP of a toy company. 

It's a sobering thought in the opening pages where Optimus Prime and Sparky find common ground as soldiers in conflict. The alternating panels by Johnson and colorist Mike Spicer illustrate the parallels between both figures while in battle bonding man with machine over the trauma of war. This is how Johnson uses small poignant moments to speak volumes about the similarities between the characters and how they share a sense of empathy and courage in the face of the Decepticons' onslaught. 

Overall, the issue is another thrilling showdown between Autobots and Decepticons even a surprise fan-moment that changes the course of the war. 'Transformers' hasn't let off the gas and continues to be one of the most satisfying reads this year.