The animation landscape is evolving, and we’re seeing a fresh wave of films that are not just visually stunning but deeply engaging. Films like the Spider-Verse series and the recent Ninja Turtles movie have captured audiences with their bold visual styles, innovative storytelling, and of course, the nostalgic appeal of beloved franchises. Now, we have Transformers: One, and while it may not hit the exact same highs as Spider-Verse, it still kicks some serious tailpipe.
A Visually Striking Cybertron
Let’s get one thing straight: the animation in Transformers: One is nothing short of phenomenal. While it may not have the exact flair of Spider-Verse or the stylistic edge of the Ninja Turtles reboot, it delivers some of the most lush, vibrant visuals I’ve seen in an animated film this year. The use of light trails and lens flares throughout the movie adds a futuristic, high-tech feel, especially in the scenes set on Cybertron. These touches made the entire world feel alive and electric, immersing you in the high-stakes battles and quiet moments alike.
In fact, two particular scenes stand out—one with a huge gathering of Transformers and another more isolated scene exploring a lesser-known part of Cybertron. Both sequences showcase just how much care went into the world-building and visual details of this movie. It’s clear that the filmmakers know how to balance action-packed scenes with moments that allow the audience to soak in the richness of this universe.
The Voice Cast: Stars with Substance
Transformers: One brings an A-list voice cast to the table, and they don’t disappoint. Chris Hemsworth leads the pack as Orion Pax, delivering the gravitas needed for the future Optimus Prime. But the standout performance? Brian Tyree Henry as Dee-16. As a fan of Atlanta, it’s been fantastic watching his range across different genres, and here, he brings a grounded, almost stubborn seriousness to his character that balances out the more comedic moments.
Scarlett Johansson’s take as a feisty character brings some well-needed energy, and Keegan-Michael Key is hilarious as B27, providing much of the film’s humor. These performances work together to create a strong ensemble, keeping you engaged as the characters evolve both in their relationships and their personal arcs throughout the film.
Nostalgia Done Right: Fan Service and Easter Eggs Galore
Fans of the Transformers franchise are in for a treat. The movie is packed with Easter eggs, especially during scenes set on Cybertron, where eagle-eyed viewers can spot background characters that may not play major roles but are instantly recognizable to long-time fans. It’s clear that the filmmakers wanted to pay homage to the franchise’s deep lore, which should make hardcore fans pretty happy.
Also, while the film is accessible to newcomers, longtime fans will get a real kick out of seeing how the characters we know and love—like Optimus Prime and Megatron—began their journeys. One small gripe is that some characters aren’t called by the names we know them by until later in the film, which might confuse those (like me!) who struggle with names. But the payoff is worth it, and by the end, everything clicks into place.
Simple Story, Big Heart
The film’s story is relatively simple, which works in its favor, though it does veer into predictability at times. It’s not a Spider-Verse-level narrative in terms of complexity, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s an origin story that delivers what it promises: a solid, entertaining look at the early days of some of the most iconic characters in pop culture. And for longtime fans, this simplicity allows you to focus on the nostalgia, the world-building, and the relationships between characters as they grow.
One of the coolest aspects of Transformers: One is watching the subtle changes in the characters and how their dynamics shift as the story progresses. There’s a real sense of growth here, especially as we see the seeds being planted for the Autobots and Decepticons we know from the original franchise.
Final Thoughts: Roll Out to the Theater
As a lifelong fan of Transformers, I walked away from this movie thoroughly satisfied. It’s a fun, action-packed ride that also packs in plenty of fan service and heart. Sure, it’s not on the same level as the Spider-Verse movies in terms of groundbreaking animation or storytelling, but it’s closer to the quality of the Ninja Turtles reboot—and that’s not a bad place to be.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, this film has something for everyone. Bring your kids, bring your friends, or just treat yourself to a solo watch. You won’t regret it.
And one last thing—don’t miss the post-credits scene. It’s a cool little tease that could hint at more to come in the Transformers animated universe. Fingers crossed for more of this story!
