I like the third iteration of it there where it slowly snakes out really slowly and fluidly. I am a huge fan of fluid and smooth transformations like someone's body is deflating like a baloon... and inflating in some areas;)

I have to agree, that 3rd iteration is great! I also like it exploding out too. The original artwork is one of my favorites, I dig the sparing use of AI here, it really compliments your drawing!