By: Russ Matthews
Did you know that the fanbase for Transformers is called Transfans?
This was a realisation hit during a recent fan screening of the latest Transformers animated adventure. During this origin story of the planet Cybertron, Optimus Prime, and Bumblebee, the faithful followers cheered their beloved Autobots and proved that this franchise will continue to live on for generations. Yet, as the story unfolds on screen, the question that niggles at the back of the brain is if the world needs another Transformers origin tale?
Understandably, a generation is just now being introduced to creatures that can transform into automobiles and may need their own story. This version of the legendary journey takes viewers back to the days when Orion Pax / Optimus Prime (Chris Hemsworth) and Megatorn / D-16 (Brian Tyree Henry) were mere miners serving the great collective on Cybertron. Yet, something within the future leader of the Autobots continued to push him to rise above his lowly position and bring his fellow Cybertronians along with him.
As Sentinel Prime (Jon Hamm) does all he can on the surface to find the means of getting their population back to its former glory, Pax and D-16 attempt to do their part along with the help of their closest allies, Elita (Scarlett Johanssonn) along with the faithful and talkative, B-127 / Bumblebee (Keegan-Michael Key). Until things change within the ranks of the Transformer community, everything will be upended, a friend will betray a friend, and the power will shift unexpectedly as the truth is revealed.
As one who has been burned by this franchise and hopes have been dashed as each subsequent live-action film dropped (except Bumblebee), the scepticism ran high during this screening. Yet, amongst the Transfans and overly hyped moderation, something unexpectedly unfolded. To answer the original question about the value of this film, Toy Story 4 director Josh Cooley shows the world that there is something to be found in this familiar tale inspired by Hasbro’s toys. As audiences are taken back into the history of the legendary robots, the hope and inspirational elements are unearthed as the story unfolds. Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry and Scarlett Johansson deliver the power needed to lead the cast, while Keegan-Michael Key proves why Bumblebee is the most beloved character in the franchise with his humour and innocence.
The quality of the animation supports the overall viewing experience. Still, it always upholds its role as the medium instead of the main focal point. Surprisingly, the storyline carries this film to the conclusion even though many of the elements would be recognisable to those who have played with the toys over the years. Each relationship has relevance, and the cast delivers the passion needed to make this narrative contemporary and hilarious when it is needed most. Yet the best part of this movie in this realm of MA15 [R] turns into the world of superhero film; this film is accessible for young viewers and families.
Transformers One validates its existence as an excellent choice for fans, families and those who love the toys.
What should parents know about Transformers One?
There was very little to object about the newest instalment of the Transformers franchise. The talking points are about friendship, aspiration, and dealing with those who wrong you in life. It provides a refreshing option for families this season and a great excuse to get out and enjoy the cinema. If there were any warnings, there were some language issues during certain moments and multiple scenes of animated violence.
If there is a standout topic to discuss with your children, it would be chasing your dreams and aspirations. Parents should take time to encourage children to have a balanced perspective of life and seek out their purpose in life. Show them how to balance aspiration, hard work and how God factors into this discussion.
Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.
All images: Movie publicity
About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.