The episode features a short story as "interpreted" by three different directors - though none of the named directors were actually involved - the third of which is our very own director of the Transformers movies, Michael Bay! Numerous iconic techniques from Bay's movies are replicated, exaggerated and pastiched: from the title (and its font) to the dramatic camera angles, the overwhelming patriotism to the omnipresent explosions, and naturally the Transformers themselves! Three Decepticons (who are called as such within the show) appear, and though none are given specific names, two are heavily based on Megatron's and Starscream's live-action movie designs respectively.
"Megatron" notably takes multiple cues, particularly the lower leg design and truck mode, from his Dark of the Moon incarnation, while "Starscream" similarly borrows his flight-based alternate mode and general body shape from the highly distinct design featured in Bay's films. The third Decepticon, while less familiar-looking than the other two, could be considered a Soundwave analog thanks to the satellite-like panels behind its head and blue coloration (and to round out the iconic Decepticon trio).
Did you have a favorite moment in this extended shout-out? Were there any particularly noteworthy homages to Bay's films that we missed out on mentioning? Let us know your thoughts in the Energon Pub forums!
Then think who's really the troll?
