Transformers Lost Light #17 Review

Written by: James Roberts

Art by: Jack Lawrence

Colors by: Joana Lafuente

Letters by: Tom B. Long

Published by: IDW

Before I start my review of this issue I have to say, this series is fast becoming one of my favorites that I read every month. It perfectly encapsulates every single thing that I really enjoy about comics: it has humour, heart, a plot that is just the right amount of “out there”, surprises every few issues, and all brought together with amazing art.

This issue sees our “deceased” heroes trying to navigate the Afterspark and what it means to all of them as a group as well as individually. What makes this even more interesting is the use of different points of view by Roberts to show these meanings. You can really run the gamut in this issue. You have those who see this new life as an opportunity to do whatever they want. Others are skeptical of this actually being the afterlife for cybertronians. You have others trying to bargain with what appears to be the higher powers to try and get back to the “real” world. Finally you have those that accept their fate and are simply happy to be reunited with long-lost friends and sparkmates.

What makes this even more interesting is that throughout the issue, Roberts drops hints that everything may not be as what it seems and the final few pages prove exactly that. Without spoiling anything, let me just say that I had “gasp” moment on the final page and now can’t wait for the next issue.

Lawrence continues to be awesome throughout the issue and proves once again why he’s fast becoming one of my favorite artists. I’ve said it before about his art, but it is so expressive with well thought out staging on each panel. Lafuente on colors also continues to only add to the art and helps the reader keep track of each Transformer (not an easy task with such a large cast).

Speaking of the cast, my only real nitpick is that Lost Light doesn’t have a list of characters at the beginning of the issue like sister title Optimus Prime does. With such a large cast it would be appreciated to have that small reminder every issue of the who’s who.