Transformers One is an animated prequel that dives deep into the origins of the iconic rivalry between Optimus Prime and Megatron, before their infamous conflict as the leaders of the Autobots and Decepticons. The movie explores their friendship, ambitions, and the political turmoil on their home planet of Cybertron.
The story focuses on Orion Pax (voiced by Chris Hemsworth), a young and idealistic worker, and his best friend D-16 (voiced by Brian Tyree Henry), both of whom dream of a better future for Cybertron. At this time, Cybertron is ruled by a corrupt government, and both Orion and D-16 begin to question the leadership’s actions, leading them to uncover dark secrets about their world.
As they rise in influence, their ideologies begin to diverge. Orion Pax becomes committed to justice and freedom, eventually transforming into Optimus Prime, a symbol of hope for the Autobots. On the other hand, D-16 grows increasingly cynical, adopting the name Megatron and rallying the Decepticons to his cause of domination, believing that only through power and control can Cybertron be saved.
The heart of the film is the emotional bond between the two, showing how their paths, once aligned, drift apart due to ideological differences. This transformation from friends to enemies is filled with heartbreak and tension, offering a layered portrayal of two characters torn apart by their beliefs
The film also introduces other key characters in the Transformers universe, including Elita (voiced by Scarlett Johansson), Sentinel Prime (Laurence Fishburne), and Bumblebee, each playing significant roles in the growing civil war between the Autobots and Decepticons.
The animation style is vibrant, fully CGI, and brings Cybertron to life in a way that balances both classic elements of the Transformers universe and modernized visuals. The film is praised for its emotional depth, character development, and high-stakes action, making it a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise
Set to release in theaters in September 2024, Transformers One delivers a fresh take on the origins of one of the most famous rivalries in sci-fi history, while providing a visually stunning and action-packed journey.
