“The Wrath of Guardian/Grimlock” (22 pp) was originally published by Marvel UK in Transformers #31-32 (October 1985)

If ever a “golden age” of Transformers comics should be defined, then “The Wrath of Guardian/Grimlock” should be the story that starts it off. Thirty issues into the Transformers run, and this is the first story to really force the reader to sit up and pay attention.

With its plot expertly woven among the title’s reprinted material from Marvel US’s Transformers, “The Wrath of Guardian/Grimlock” follows the story of the displaced Dinobots and Ratchet as they arrive back home to the Ark to see what can be done with the scores of deactivated Autobots inside. The ever-impulsive Swoop has already flown ahead only to find that the vacating Decepticons have reprogrammed an Autobot Omega-class Battle Droid known as “Guardian” into an Autobot killer.

The action comes thick (well, these are the Dinobots) and fast as they respond to the threat with brute force as Ratchet hangs back to find a more cerebral solution. Already the Dinobots are becoming fast favourites among the Transformers characters, and with Simon Furman writing them the way he does here, you can see why: The Dinobots are a close team, fiercely loyal and not afraid to share a joke.

The back-and-forth of philosophy and resolve between Grimlock and Ratchet is a joy to watch unfold. Furman’s portrayal of the Autobots and Dinobots through dialogue and deed rewards the reader with layered characterisation. Even the affinity between the likes of Prowl, Wheeljack and Ratchet is genuine and compelling.

Barry Kitson’s line art coupled with Gina Hart’s painted colours stands head and shoulders above what has so far been seen in the Transformers comic. The fight scenes are fluid, the robots are superbly rendered and emotions are conveyed flawlessly.

The only chinks in this otherwise highly polished piece are the brief interludes when the narrative stops somewhat jarringly to remind the reader what has been happening in previous issues.

“The Wrath of Guardian/Grimlock” is a rarity amongst Transformers stories; the plot furthers only from the decisions of its cast and its characters are warm and captivating. There is a fantastic balance between action and drama and this story is proof positive that the double decade legacy of the Transformers has been built on impregnable foundations.

Category: Marvel UK
Tags: Barry Kitson | Simon Furman

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