Optimus Prime #21 Review

Writer: John Barber Artist: Sara Pitre-Durocher Publisher: IDW Publishing Release Date: July 18, 2018 Cover Price: $3.99

Review by Chris Groves

Bumblebee and Optimus Prime make a last, desperate bid to return to the real world as Shockwave teams up with the Autobots! Can Optimus stop what’s coming, or has he played right into the hands of the ultimate destroyer?

Pyra Magna narrates this final issue of the Falling arc, and it is through her eyes that we see how Optimus gets his groove back.  We began as she recounts her time with Optimus since he first arrived on Caminus through the current time.

We snap back to the present where she is fighting Devastator while Shockwave is still attacking the rest of the Autobots.  Shockwave reveals his endgame plan of tainted Energon to the group, and Optimus and Bumblebee return in a very creative fashion. Shockwave is dealt with appropriately and his Maximals leave him to return to their true master.

Barber concludes this arc in a satisfying manner.  He ties his whole run together and has shown us a complete history of this universe.  One aspect I liked is the explanation that the source of Optimus’s power is people's belief in the matrix.

Since he stepped down as the leader, many have been outspokenly against him and atheistic in their belief in the Primes. As has been the case for the last few months, characters deaths come in spectacular ways and are great ways to send them off by being integral to the plot. 

The art is great per usual, and Livio’s coloring in the Optimus/Bumblebee segments is a standout. Sara Pitre-Durocher also draws the bots well and with great emotion.

Bits and Pieces:

The Falling storyline wrapped up the Optimus Prime story with great twists and shocks. Tying this story into multiple past issues really cemented the importance of this arc to the continuity.  

8.5/10