Transformers: Regeneration One #100

by Sean Tonelli on March 19, 2014

Transformers: Regeneration One #100
They say all good things must come to an end and in the case of Transformers: Regeneration that time is now. Set 21 years after the events of the original Marvel continuity, IDW’s successful attempt at continuing Marvels threads, complete with original series writer Simon Furman, has been an exciting and original read since its inception. With the ability to close the series out properly, Furman pulls no punches in delivering a conclusion worthy of the franchises namesake. 

The War to End all Wars finds the odds stacked against Rodimus and the Autobots. With the Darkness corrupting Cybertron from within and his brethren falling around him, Rodimus must put aside his rage and channel the knowledge of the matrix to ensure there is a future not just his people, but for the universe itself. What follows is a thrilling ride that not only spans galaxies, but every aspect of the Transformers universe.

I am a late comer to the Regeneration line and what I find surprising is the moral complexities that line the panels. Hidden beneath the space battles and robot slug-fests lies a moral core that deals with issues such as rage, genocide, legacy and forgiveness. Furman’s ability to juggle these weighty tomes with the action needed to attract the lay persons eye is more than commendable, it's downright brilliant. Though some of the morality is laid on a bit thick, the overall story is a thrilling read.

The pencils for the story have been spread across three talented artists. While Wildman may be my personal favourite of the three, thanks in part to his excellent Cybertonian line work, all three manage to capture the spectacle needed to showcase Furman’s script. The inks are colours are solid as well, with a throwback palette of 80’s awesomeness that brings the spirit of the cartoon to life.

Recently I have begun dabbling in lettering work of my own and I must say, it’s a lot harder than I had initially thought. My compliments go out to letterer Chris Mowry. His ability to showcase the different vocal styles of the myriad of the books characters is a true testament to his skill. The dialogue never overshadows the image, yet works in perfect unison with the rest of the creative team. Letterers are often the unsung heroes of the comic world and Chris Mowry is definitely one of the industries top talents. 

As the sunsets on another Transformers series, it is safe to say Transformers: Regeneration One #100 is not only a fitting conclusion, but a glorious showcase of the talent behind the line. The series will be greatly missed yet, as Furman points out, the saga will never be truly over, it will live on in our hearts and minds.

Transformers: Regeneration One: #100
Writer: Simon Furman
Pencils: Andrew Wildman, Geoff Senior, Guido Guidi
Inks: Stephen Baskerville, Geoff Senior
Colours: John-Paul Bove
Letters: Chris Mowry
Publisher: IDW
Purchase: http://www.idwpublishing.com/news/article/2768/

Our Score:

9/10

A Look Inside