Transformers #14: You Conniving Piece of…

Transformers #14 is the second issue in this series’ first mini arc, focusing on the current happenings of Starscream, as well as what made him who he is today. Whereas last issue focused more on his past, with little bits of the present, this issue is the complete opposite. This issue also reveals that it is occurring around the same time as the end of the previous arc, setting up the next arc in a well rounded way with several forces at play behind the scenes of the Autobots’ purview. Although this two issue arc works as a palate cleanser for the main story, it also features some great connections to the shared Energon Universe, as well as some key moments of backstory that are definitely setting up the future arrival of the true leader of the Decepticons.

Related: New York Comic Con 2024: SkyBound Energon Universe Roundtable

Daniel Warren Johnson has really been weaving quite the thread with this very multifaceted and complex Transformers tale. Johnson is no stranger to putting the most amazing moments on display, as is evident in any of his other works. But here it feels like he is able to do something special as this two issue arc gives a break to artist Jorge Corona, but also does so much to inform the reader about what this series entails for the future. While this may be viewed as a spoiler, you are likely only reading this issue if you read the previous one, which means that you know this issue will explore the relationship between Starscream and Megatron. Without getting into the specifics, Johnson does something truly spectacular here, highlighting this complex relationship by showing how one sided it truly is, while also harkening back to the classic, G1 tone and story. Transformers #14 is lighter on the backstory, but the little it depicts paints a great, whole picture for the reader, proving that sometimes less is more.

The other part of this story continues to showcase what happens after Starscream’s body was retrieved post being tossed from a cliff by Soundwave. Starscream is often depicted as one of the most annoying, frustrating characters in any of his appearances. He often is shown being a thorn in his allies’ sides; yet, he is ferociously loyal to the cause he represents. Transformers #14 proves that he is more than just the frustrating and annoying character, highlighting his resolve when it comes to how he truly feels about his ideals. In the end, yes he is out for himself, but he is also never wavering in his desire to be the leader he knows he can be, and believes he should be. In the end, Starscream proves to be a force to be reckoned with, despite his demeanor and attitude.

Jason Howard does a great job jumping onto art duties for this two issue arc, especially as Starscream truly begins to be defined.One of the most definitive parts of this story is when Starscream truly learns what it means to work for Megatron. Howard does an amazing job showcasing the horror in Starscream’s eyes slowly evolving into accomplice as he and Megatron truly form that bond they are so famous for. Howard also showcases Megatron’s ability to turn into a gun, something he famously did in the cartoon, which really makes this series continue to feel like a love letter to what has come before.

The issue ends on a hopeful note, at least for Starscream, indicating that his future in the Energon Universe is bright, despite Megatron still lurking in the shadows. This all is setting up one heck of a battle between Decepticon forces, which may give the Autobots what they need to win this war. All in all, this is a character drama before anything else, and Johnson, Howard, Mike Spicer, Rus Wooton, and all the other artists from prior arcs are able to make these robots in disguise more human than humanity itself.