Transformers One arrives exclusively in UK cinemas from October 11th, 2024. Autobots, transform and roll out.
Synopsis
Transformers One is the untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever.
Review
Let’s just jump into it. Transformers One is one of the biggest surprises of the year. That’s not to say that it’ll be to everyone’s liking as this is a very different Transformers movie. In every way, it is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before, but I think that’s its biggest strength. It fully leans into the fact that we’ve never truly explored Cybertron, and it really rolls with it. We get to explore some major locations that look absolutely stunning. There’s this beautiful blend of organic and mechanic that helps bring Cybertron to life in a way that completely separates it from the other versions we’ve seen. Cybertron is a character in its own unique way.
On a visual level, Transformers One is just an utter feast. The world springs to life with detail in every single frame and you’ll be gawking at the screen from start to finish, desperately trying to process everything. Even though this film is likely to be targeting the younger generation, those who are new to the Transformers world, it’s instantly obvious that this film was created by passionate artists with the fans always at the forefront of their mind. There are little easter eggs and details scattered throughout the film, and it was such a rewarding experience being able to point them out without it distracting you from the unravelling story.
I will be honest here, I wasn’t entirely sold on the new designs of the Transformers. However, after seeing them properly, their new looks grow on you. Because this is the first time in quite a long time where we have just pure Transformer exposure, you adjust to the new designs almost instantly. They’re all very creative, but what I love most about them, especially for Orion and D-16, is that you can actually see the start of their true selves. Additionally, their more human-esque design allows them to really express themselves which works wonders for characters like Bumblebee, and has a great payoff for the more emotional beats that really wouldn’t work without the subtle and deep expressions. As much as I love the live action Transformers movies for what they are, Transformers One approaches these iconic characters as actual characters rather than opportunities for cool action sequences. With that, you get the nuances and care that fleshed out characters deserve, and in a way it felt strange to see that level of attention applied to these characters. It truly is a most welcomed gift.
The story itself works as opportunity to explore the beauty and chaos of Cybertron. Above that though is a story that focuses on the birth of the Autobots and Decepticons, which obviously starts with Orion and D-16. Their story holds everything together and gives the film the energon boost it needs to shine. Despite the film being somewhat short, their progression and corroding friendship unravels and flows superbly. As fans, we know what the outcome is, but Transformers One makes it all worth it. You get to see how close the two are, quite literally brothers in every sense, but you also see how their ideals cause a rift so vast that it divides Cybertron completely. The brilliant thing is that while the Decepticons are always held in a negative light, Transformers One slightly plays with that because in their own way… Both characters are doing what they believe is right and it’s impossible to see D-13 as the villainous Megatron that we know.
I think one of the biggest concerns that ran rampant following the film’s reveal was the casting. Don’t get me wrong I was super excited when I saw the full cast list, but there was definitely some anxieties floating around, especially when you consider the gravity and weight that names such as Peter Cullen and Frank Welker carry. However, the likes of Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry bring something new to the table without just mimicking the voices that came before them. Much like their evolving visual appearance, you do hear subtle similarities and they gradually seep through as both characters evolve. Were there other potential voice actors? Probably, but Hemsworth and Henry do a pretty fantastic job at embodying these iconic roles. They both have fun with it and while they are vastly different to what many of us expected, they do treat these characters respectfully.
Obviously, they aren’t the only stars. Scarlett Johnansson and Keegan Michael-Key shine as Elita-1 and B-127. Johansson embues Elita-1 with authority, but she actually turns out to be one of the funniest characters with her “fish out of water” approach. B-127 is definitely the comic relief of Transformers One, which really helps emphasise the growing tension between Orion and D-16, and I can’t think of anyone better to play the rambling and annoying Autobot. Keegan knocks it out of the park. Not all the jokes land, but you can’t help but smile at B-127’s innocent stupidity. He’s an absolute delight and by the end of the film you’ll wish he had his voice box ripped out which only makes it that much more funnier.
Verdict
Transformers One is a visually mesmerising and refreshing treat for old Transformers fans and new fans alike. It’s ripe with stunning detail, gripping action that fans will utterly adore, and plenty of heart that brilliantly explores the evolving relationship between Optimus Prime and Megatron. The entire cast treat each character with the utmost respect while also adding an exciting flare that separates them from previous iterations. To put it simply, this is the best Transformers movie to date, and it must be experienced on the big screen to fully appreciate ILM’s craft.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Directed by Josh Cooley, Transformers One stars Chris Hemsworth (Orion Pax), Brian Tyree Henry (D-16), Scarlett Johansson (Elita-1) and Keegan-Michael Key (B-127), Steve Buscemi (Starscream), with Laurence Fishburne (Alpha Trion) and Jon Hamm (Sentinel Prime).
