Transformers One has made quite the entrance on Rotten Tomatoes, allowing it to be assessed alongside its other franchise counterparts. Directed by Josh Cooley and featuring a screenplay by Eric Pearson, Andrew Barrer, and Gabriel Ferrari, this animated film marks the ninth theatrical installment in the Transformers series, which first emerged in 1984 with The Transformers animated series and the iconic Hasbro toy line. Notably, this marks the franchise’s first animated theatrical feature since the original, 1986’s The Transformers: The Movie.
Transformers One seems to rejuvenate the spirit of the franchise in several significant ways. While the cinematic entries since 2007 have all been live-action, the extensive animated series has thrived on television. This revival through animation could be a reason for its commendable recognition on Rotten Tomatoes. The film boasts an impressive voice cast, including stars like Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm, which has contributed to its favorable comparisons with earlier installments.
As of now, Transformers One flaunts a remarkable 90% on the Tomatometer, based on an initial collection of 39 reviews from various outlets, including those from “Top Critics.” Given the standard that a movie must secure at least five reviews from Top Critics, maintain a score above 75%, and reach a minimum of 80 reviews for a wide release to achieve Certified Fresh status, Transformers One is on track to potentially earn this distinction as more critiques come in. For now, it already exceeds the 60% threshold necessary for a movie to be considered Fresh.
The film has garnered positive reviews partly due to its bold approach to the Transformers narrative. Critics have been divided on the animation itself, yet a consensus seems to appreciate the film’s fresh take on the franchise’s established lore. Many reviewers praise the movie for honoring its roots while delivering an entertaining and visually striking experience tailored for young viewers, albeit with limited originality in some aspects. Ultimately, the film’s daring choices yield fruitful results, winning over critics with its ensemble cast and engaging tone.
In terms of reception, Transformers One stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the celebrated 2018 film Bumblebee, as they are tied with the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores in the franchise’s history, both resting at 90%. Bumblebee, which serves as a prequel and is situated earlier in the Transformers timeline, has already secured its Certified Fresh badge, which Transformers One has yet to achieve.
Comparatively, Transformers One’s score significantly surpasses that of The Transformers: The Movie, the original animated feature, which sits at a mere 62%—just above the threshold for a Fresh rating. With a 90% score, Transformers One eclipses the original release by 28%, underscoring its triumph in the critical arena.
When we look at the live-action entries, the picture isn’t as rosy. While the live-action Transformers films amassed over $5 billion at the box office, only Bumblebee has received a Fresh rating. The remaining films received harsh critiques, with scores plummeting as low as 16%. The disparity in ratings is stark, with the range stretching an incredible 74% from the highest-rated films to the lowest, a gulf that highlights the mixed reception of the franchise as a whole.
Transformers One, as an animated action-adventure, aims to bring viewers back to the essence of the Transformers saga. It will delve into the early days of iconic characters Optimus Prime and Megatron, exploring their initial encounters and the intricacies of the war on Cybertron.
With an anticipated release date set for September 20, 2024, Transformers One is poised to make waves in the animation landscape, promising a narrative that may very well resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.