Growing up, the world of Transformers cartoons was more than just entertainment; it was an immersive universe filled with robots in disguise. The allure of Autobots and Decepticons was captivating, sparking dreams of becoming a transforming robot. Decades later, that fascination remains strong, making the anticipation for Transformers One, an animated film set on Cybertron, incredibly high.
While Transformers One might initially appear as another summer blockbuster, it delves deeper into the lore, offering a richer narrative than meets the eye. For fans eager to witness this new chapter in the Transformers saga, the burning question is: where to watch Transformers One? Mark your calendars, as Transformers One is slated for theatrical release on September 20th. For the optimal viewing experience, catching it in theaters upon release is highly recommended. Check your local cinema listings for showtimes and ticket availability to ensure you don’t miss the Cybertronian action on the big screen.
(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
Set in the pre-Earth era, Transformers One transports audiences to Cybertron, a planet scarred by war against the Quintessons. The narrative unfolds as Cybertron faces an Energon shortage, exacerbated by the disappearance of the Matrix of Leadership. Sentinel Prime (voiced by Jon Hamm), the last of the Primes, embarks on a quest to recover the Matrix. Simultaneously, Orion Pax (Chris Hemsworth), a mining bot yearning for more than his station, also seeks the Matrix to prove his worth. Orion Pax, lacking the transformation cog, discovers potential coordinates to the Matrix and enlists his friend D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry), along with fellow worker bots Elita-1 (Scarlett Johansson) and B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key), on a mission to save their civilization.
The premise might seem like typical action-adventure fare, especially for those familiar with the Transformers universe. However, Transformers One distinguishes itself by prioritizing character development and exploring the tragic origins of the Autobot-Decepticon conflict. Unlike previous Transformers films, particularly those from the Michael Bay era, which often prioritized spectacle and crammed numerous characters with minimal depth, Transformers One adopts a more focused approach. It hones in on a core group of characters, meticulously crafting their personalities and the intricate dynamics between them. While Easter eggs and cameos from familiar bots are present for longtime fans, they serve as delightful additions rather than distractions from the central narrative.
The heart of Transformers One lies in the evolving relationship between Orion Pax and D-16, charting their transformation into Optimus Prime and Megatron. Initially, Orion is depicted as an idealistic and impulsive bot, driven by a desire to make his mark. This portrayal is a stark contrast to the wise and seasoned leader audiences are accustomed to. Throughout the film, Orion grapples with the weight of leadership and the consequences of his decisions. His pursuit of the Matrix of Leadership shifts from personal ambition to a selfless quest for the betterment of Cybertron and the establishment of lasting peace. This exploration of Optimus Prime’s formative years offers a fresh and compelling perspective on a beloved character.
D-16 serves as Orion’s foil and complement, and his character arc is arguably the most compelling aspect of Transformers One. The film delves into the backstory of the future Decepticon leader, moving beyond the one-dimensional portrayal of a tyrannical villain. D-16 initially adheres to rules and trusts authority, contrasting with Orion’s rebellious nature. However, when his faith in the system is shattered, D-16’s rage ignites a path of vengeance, driven by a desire for justice for his people. This transformation from a hopeful bot to a leader fueled by righteous anger is both tragic and relatable, adding layers of complexity to Megatron’s origins.
This contrasting exploration of leadership provides a mature and nuanced perspective. Orion embodies the power of collective action and empathy, while D-16 leans towards decisive displays of force. Orion learns the importance of level-headedness and diplomacy, while D-16 allows his emotions to dictate his actions. While the film clearly critiques D-16’s violent methods and “might makes right” philosophy, it also fosters a degree of sympathy for his motivations, making his descent all the more impactful.
(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
Despite its strengths in character development, Transformers One‘s narrative isn’t without minor shortcomings. The plot, while engaging, can feel somewhat predictable, particularly for viewers familiar with the Transformers lore or common movie tropes. The film’s second act, while visually stunning with its depiction of Cybertron’s surface, experiences pacing issues. While crucial plot developments occur during this section, the predictability of the narrative can lead to a desire to accelerate through these scenes. More screen time dedicated to the burgeoning conflict between Orion and D-16 could have further amplified the emotional impact of their eventual rift. Despite the film’s thorough build-up of their friendship, the transition to animosity feels somewhat abrupt. While the film excels in lore building, introducing elements like the mythic Primes, it also raises unanswered questions, such as the fundamental origins of Cybertronian transformation.
However, the voice acting performances in Transformers One are universally praised. Hemsworth and Henry masterfully embody their roles, paying homage to the iconic portrayals of Optimus Prime and Megatron by Peter Cullen and Frank Welker, while injecting their unique interpretations into these younger versions. Hemsworth captures Orion’s initial recklessness and optimism, gradually transitioning to a more somber and authoritative tone as the character evolves into a leader, subtly hinting at Cullen’s gravitas. Henry’s portrayal of D-16’s descent into bitterness and rage is particularly captivating, delivering lines with chilling venom and intensity.
Johansson’s Elita-1 and Key’s B-127 also contribute significantly to the ensemble. While Elita-1 might initially appear as a token female character, Johansson imbues her with a toughness and resolve that commands respect. Her character arc, evolving from indifference to admiration for Orion, reinforces his leadership qualities without overshadowing her own agency.
B-127, or Bumblebee, voiced by Keegan-Michael Key, is portrayed with infectious energy and humor. Breaking away from his traditionally radio-reliant communication, B-127’s clear and exuberant voice provides levity in the film’s darker moments. However, this comedic approach occasionally veers into overindulgence, with B-127’s quips sometimes dominating scenes. While Key’s performance is commendable, a more restrained approach might have been beneficial.
The supporting cast, including Hamm as Sentinel Prime, Lawrence Fishburne as Alpha Trion, and Steve Buscemi as Starscream, all deliver strong performances. Hamm exudes charisma as Sentinel, Fishburne embodies wisdom as Alpha Trion, and Buscemi perfectly captures Starscream’s sniveling cowardice and inflated ego.
Visually, Transformers One is a treat. The subterranean Cybertronian world blends retro-futuristic elements reminiscent of the original cartoons, while the surface world evokes a nostalgic 80s vaporwave aesthetic. The bot designs are diverse and will resonate with fans of classic Transformers toys. The action sequences are dynamic and easy to follow, with impactful blaster shots and weighty melee combat. The animation style marks a significant improvement over the chaotic visual clutter of previous live-action Transformers films.
(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)
The transformation sequences themselves are visually engaging, though the film primarily focuses on the initial learning process. While transformation is central to the franchise, a greater emphasis on showcasing a wider variety of transformations and vehicle modes could have been explored further.
Transformers One also offers a 3D viewing option. While the 3D presentation enhances depth and scope in certain scenes, particularly landscapes and close-ups, it doesn’t fundamentally alter the viewing experience. If 3D is available and within budget, it can be a worthwhile enhancement, but it’s not essential to enjoying the film.
In conclusion, Transformers One successfully reignites the passion for the Transformers franchise. Moving beyond mere toy commercials, this animated film takes its characters and lore seriously, offering a narrative that rewards emotional investment. Combined with stunning visuals, nostalgic designs, and exciting action, Transformers One establishes a promising foundation for future installments. It’s a welcome return to form for Transformers fans and a compelling entry point for new audiences.
Rating: 8/10
