Transformers One (Review)
Transformers: One is the latest installment in the iconic Transformers franchise, bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved characters and lore. Directed by Josh Cooley, this animated film serves as a prequel to the live-action series, diving into the origins of some of our favorite Autobots and Decepticons.
Transformers One (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
In the film, we witness 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. In the first-ever fully CG-animated Transformers movie, the film features a star-studded voice cast, including Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, with Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.
The animation quality is undeniably stunning, intricately combining both traditional and modern techniques to create a visually captivating experience for viewers of all ages. Ever since the release of the Spider-Verse movies, which pioneered their unique animation style, more and more studios are increasingly picking up on these newer techniques to immerse the audience in an exciting new generation of storytelling. The character designs not only stay true to the original aesthetics beloved by fans, but the animation artists also cleverly update them for a contemporary audience, ensuring relevance in today’s market. Additionally, the action sequences are nothing short of thrilling, skillfully showcasing the immense scale and power of the Transformers in a way that feels both epic and deeply intimate, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level.
Transformers One (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
The impressive voice cast features a blend of established talent and rising stars. The performances add depth to the characters, with notable mentions being the portrayals of Optimus Prime (Hemsworth) and Megatron (Henry), which capture the complexity of their relationship and the evolving narratives of loyalty and betrayal.
The storytelling is engaging, though it follows a somewhat familiar path within the established framework of the franchise. It effectively blends elements of humor, drama, and action without overshadowing the emotional stakes that are crucial to the narrative. The film does a commendable job of introducing new characters and fresh perspectives, expanding the rich mythology of the Transformers universe while still appealing to long-time fans. It was truly a brilliant move to set the entire movie on Cybertron, an aspect that fans have eagerly wanted to see depicted on screen for a long time. I have a strong belief that they are going to appreciate what the filmmakers creatively accomplish in this setting.
Transformers One (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
However, some viewers may find certain plot points predictable, as the film adheres closely to established tropes within the franchise, but outside of that, I see very little to critique with issues on this one. Overall, Transformers: One is a worthy addition to the Transformers canon. It is the best Transformers movie since the first live-action adaptation in 2007 and the best-animated movie of 2024 so far. As a film, it successfully entertains while offering deeper lore that fans have been craving. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it provides enough excitement and narrative richness to satisfy both new viewers and seasoned fans. This film leaves us with anticipation for what is next in the ever-expanding world of Transformers.
RATING:
4.5/5
