With the Spider-Verse films and TMNT: Mutant Mayhem sparking this trend of animated cinematic revivals, it was only a matter of time until Transformers got the same treatment. Thankfully though, the franchise’s first theatrical animated adventure since 1986 is a genuine treat for fans and newcomers alike. 

The film is a prequel to the live-action films that takes viewers to Cybertron – before Orion Pax (Chris Hemsworth) and D-16 (Bryan Tyree Henry) become Optimus Prime and Megatron, respectively. Together, these two best friends embark on a journey to restore the planet’s energon by retrieving the long lost Matrix of Leadership. However, they discover a hidden enemy who tests their morality and slowly attempts to drive them apart.  

Transformers One starts on unexpectedly shaky ground as it struggles to effectively establish its identity and world. Almost immediately, it dishes out a lot of lore on Cybertron’s history, the legacy of the Primes, and the pedestrian perspective of miner bots. The immediate information dump might be fine for dedicated Transformers fans, but casual moviegoers could be easily overwhelmed. The first act is also a little too generic in its approach. It’s overly reliant on stock-standard adventure story trappings, and carries too much hit or miss comedy in its tone. It simply feels like the start of any ordinary adventure rather than a deep drive of a generally untouched part of the franchise’s history – which is a little disappointing.  

Most of the voice cast also struggles to slip into their personas. Hemsworth is definitely the best of the bunch for the rugged voice he gives Orion, and he captures the spirit of Peter Cullen’s iconic work incredibly well. While Henry eventually comes into his own as D-16/Megatron, his voice is initially too light. Sure, D-16 has to build towards becoming Megatron. But Henry’s voice being so far off from Megatron’s sound is remarkably distracting and works against the film trying to establish a Transformers identity. Scarlett Johasson is simply, well, herself as Elita-1 and delivers a relatively forgettable performance. Unfortunately, Keegan-Michael Key delivers the most underwhelming performance as Bumblebee since he’s forced to be solely comedic relief. He’s just tasked with doing his usual comedic shtick of being weird and energetic, and it just doesn’t ever feel like you’re really seeing or hearing Bumblebee in this film. 

The early beats of Transformers One definitely have flaws, but also some bright spots. While the glossy 3D animation takes some getting used to, there are some stunning shots that strike awe in viewers. The settings look amazing through these imaginative wide shots and the use of color really makes the characters, landscapes, and action pop with energy. Unlike the live-action films, Transformers One doesn’t need explosions to “wow” viewers, and that carries well into the action. The opening chase sequence is an incredibly fun way to introduce Orion, and the eventual race that he and D-16 end up in is a visual marvel in its own right. Not to mention, Orion and D-16 are a very likeable pair and the film does a good job getting viewers to connect with the heart of their dynamic. 

Once the film finds its footing though, it becomes one of the best Transformers movies out there simply because of what it does for the legacy of its central duo. Before even talking about how great Orion and D-16’s shared story becomes, it’s worth noting that the second half of the film actually fixes some of the issues seen throughout the first. The lore becomes much clearer as a knowledge entity presents himself and harnesses a necessary perspective. There’s also some fan-favorite characters introduced who are incredibly fun and further build out the scope of the narrative. The way the villain is revealed is excellent and the impact his betrayal leaves on Orion and D-16 is palpable. You’ll feel the gutting revelations they go through, and it helps make the villain more memorable – even if the twist isn’t surprising. 

It all builds towards a finale that’s legitimately thrilling, fun, and meaningful because of all the emotion baked into it. The fights reach epic new heights through new combat styles entering the fray and some good emotional conclusions that come from Orion and D-16’s fulfilling arcs. 

Orion’s journey to becoming the selfless leader that Optimus is known to be is so fulfilling, and the inspiration he provides is so powerful. There’s a rallying speech that’ll literally move fans to tears and deeply nails the kind of leadership that defines Optimus’ persona. D-16’s journey is much more disheartening though – but in a way that’s connective and deep. His personal anguish and growing sense of vengeance is so raw that you’re captivated by his every move. With D-16, a surprising sense of brutality and darkness enter the film that’s so fitting to Megatron – which is immensely satisfying to see. It’s with these two arcs that the film really nails its Transformers identity, and the film does a great job capitalizing on this conflict in its final stretch. Along with an unforgettable fight that might be among the best of the series, the last couple moments really capture what Transformers is all about and instantly generates new excitement for the franchise that’s been absent for so long. 

Transformers One might initially feel defined by shortcomings, but it eventually becomes more than meets the eye and delivers a must-see Transformers story. Its heart is thoroughly planted on its sleeve and contains a dual arc narrative full of ambitious animation, thrilling action, and heartfelt journeys that audiences far and wide will adore.

Watch the Trailer Here: