In a new interview, Transformers: EarthSpark's Ant Ward and Dale Malinowski reveal more about the Paramount+ animated show.
The way of the Bot evolves in Transformers: EarthSpark. The new series sees many allies and foes come together as they meet a new family -- the Maltos -- in Witwicky, Pennsylvania. In addition to the new partnerships, the show marks the birth of the Terrans -- the first Transformers born on planet Earth. Unfortunately, several Decepticons and other villains detest the newfound alliance and peace, doing everything possible to throw a wrench into it.
In an exclusive interview with CBR, Transformers: EarthSpark executive producers Ant Ward and Dale Malinowski discussed the road to the small screen and the moments that made them the proudest. They revealed more about the initial concern of turning Megatron from the Autobot's greatest enemy to their new ally, as well as the overwhelming positive response to the creation of the Terrans. Ward and Malinowski also teased what the audience can expect for the second season of the animated show.
CBR: First of all, congratulations on the first season of Transformers: EarthSpark. Looking back, how do you feel about the journey up to this point?
Ant Ward: Thank you! We are deeply proud of our crew and series. On the production side, everyone overcame challenges that made them grow as artists and storytellers. On the narrative side, the Maltos overcame challenges that helped them grow as a family and as a team of heroes. Their story is far from over, though, and we're thrilled for everyone to see how Robby, Mo, and the Terrans level up in Season 2.
The show is an evolution of the franchise as it expands beyond the regular battle between Autobots and Decepticons -- in fact aligning old foes. What were your biggest concerns surrounding the concept of Transformers: EarthSpark in the beginning?
Dale Malinowski: We were eager to know if fans would accept Megatron as an ally to the Autobots. Creatively, we knew we had a solid causality for Megatron's story, and we had the support of both studios. We felt we were staying true to Megatron's character because, in lore, he and Optimus Prime were allies before they were enemies, so Megatron's the type who's willing to make significant changes for the sake of progress toward his goal. We committed to Megatron's story very early in development, but you never know how the audience will react, and in animation, the wait time between production and distribution is very long! Our hope was that fans would be intrigued and come along for the ride, and we're grateful that they have.
Taking a look back at the first season, what would you say has been your proudest moment in the series?
Ward: Creating original characters that resonate with our audience. We have a large cast, so there's someone for everyone with those characters telling stories that encourage empathy with others. Eight billion people are sharing planet Earth. Our world is rich with cultures and diversities. If our show inspires even one person to broaden their perspective and understanding of the people and world around them, we'd be very happy.
What has surprised you the most about the fans' reactions to the Terrans?
Malinowski: How quickly and passionately the fans have embraced the Terrans. We see a lot of fan art online, and every piece warms our hearts. Some of our crew have been printing everything they find and hanging it up near our production space in the studio.
Family is a strong concept in Transformers: EarthSpark. What challenges have you given yourselves and the team in expanding this theme for the second season?
Ward: The challenge is to never repeat ourselves, so we allow our characters to evolve. Family remains a core theme in Season 2, but so is growing up, trust, and loss. For Season 2, we want our themes to mature in tandem with our characters.
In a previous interview, the actors said they recorded their parts individually for the show. I'm not sure how far into Season 2's production you are, but is this the plan moving forward, or is there any intention to try to do group recordings?
Malinowski: For us, all decisions come down to creative intent. When we have a script or sequence hinging upon the dynamic between two characters, for example, then we'll ask the casting and records teams to schedule a session for those two actors to record together. Nickelodeon's in-house teams always support creative intent, so they're fantastic to work with.
What can you tease about Season 2 of the show?
Ward: Season 2 starts with a bang! The heroes are in the middle of an extremely important mission. They have new skills for the job, but many obstacles and foes stand in their way. Amidst the chaos, new relationships develop, new and familiar characters enter the story, and big secrets are exposed. It's a wild ride from start to finish!
Considering how Transformers is crossing over with G.I. Joe in the comics, and there was a tease in the recent movie, have there been any discussions about crossing over into other Hasbro properties?
Malinowski: You know we can't admit anything here! We're excited to see the Transformers comics and features explore their crossovers.
Transformers: EarthSpark Season 1 is available to watch on Paramount+. A release date for Season 2 is still to be announced.
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