‘Transformers One‘ resets the Transformers Mythos with a star-studded cast as the next new franchise to dominate the box office.
Screened last night via the Orange County Film Society, ‘Transformers One‘ showcases a star-studded voice cast that rivals the beloved 1986 original, ‘The Transformers: The Movie‘.
‘Transformers One‘ is a fresh reset to the Transformers franchise, providing an intriguing untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron in the medium of animation (we have seen this story play out in the comics). The film explores their evolution from close friends to sworn enemies, a transformation that changes the fate of Cybertron forever. As someone who usually detests prequels/requels/reboots, this one truly does the franchise justice, setting the stage for a promising new beginning.
Chris Hemsworth lends his best American accent to Orion Pax, who eventually becomes Optimus Prime, bringing a Biblical cornucopia of theological figures turning the Archangel Michael, Moses, Mordecai and Jesus Christ into one robotic hero. Brian Tyree Henry adds gravitas to D-16, the young protocol bot who turns into the villainous Megatron. His relationship with Orion Pax is a marvelous retelling of Pharaoh’s hardening of his heart to Moses and the enslaved minor bots, Haman’s hatred for those who will not kneel before his might and Lucifer attempting to take the thrown only to fall from grace like a flash of lighting.
With aspects of Biblical themes, anti-communist ideology in hopes of a unified republic and aspects of Fritz Lang’s, ‘Metropolis‘, ‘Transformers One‘ is near perfection.
Keegan-Michael Key provides wonderful comic relief as B-127, the eventual Bumblebee, ensuring the film balances its heavier themes with lighthearted moments. The only downside was Scarlett Johansson’s role as Elita-1, kind of an embittered Archangel Raphael, who from the poster I thought 
would be Arcee. It would have been better to bring in an actual voice actress that would have emoted more, rather than just sounding like a flat table read.
The animation itself is nothing short of phenomenal. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and fluid movements of the Transformers bring the world of Cybertron to life in a way that feels both immersive and spectacular. Each character design is thoughtfully crafted, allowing for expressive performances that enhance the storytelling. Josh Cooley has officially stepped out of the shadow of John Lasseter who’s mentorship began with their days at Pixar now transitioning to Paramount. If Lasseter continues to be the Merlin to Cooley’s King Arthur, we are in for a long run of Paramount dominance.
Steve Buscemi steps into the role of Starscream, paying homage to the late Christopher Collins with a fitting performance. The presence of Laurence Fishburne as Alpha Trion and Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime further enriches the narrative, embodying the elder statesmen guiding the younger generation of Transformers into their respective roles. James Remar as Zeta Prime, is the unsung hero of this animated instant classic.
One of the film’s standout aspects is its commitment to character development, which is a testament to the writing of Eric Pearson, Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari, allowing audiences to connect with these iconic figures in a way that feels fresh and engaging. While some may lament the absence of the original animated series voice cast, the modern ensemble brings a new energy for the next generation.
‘Transformers One‘ is in theaters now.
The next screening through the Orange County Film Society will be on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 of the Universal Pictures, ‘The Wild Robot.’
The screening to follow for Orange County Film Society will be on Thursday, September 26, 2024 with A24’s ‘A Different Man.’
The Orange County Film Society will be leading into the silver anniversary of the Newport Beach Film Festival, running from October 17 through October 24, 2024.
Summary
‘Transformers One‘ stands out as the best Transformers film since the beloved 1986 original, ‘The Transformers: The Movie‘. It successfully balances nostalgia with contemporary storytelling, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With its stunning animation and solid direction, this is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the rich lore of the Transformers universe in a new light.
