Transformers One is an animated science fiction action film. It is based on Hasbro’s Transformers toy line and directed by Josh Cooley. The story is set on Cybertron. It explores the origins and early relationship of Optimus Prime and Megatron.
The film was announced in August 2017. Josh Cooley was confirmed as director in April 2020.
Animation was done by Industrial Light & Magic. The design style was influenced by the Generation 1 era and Art Deco.
The musical score was composed by Brian Tyler. Transformers One premiered in Sydney, Australia, on September 11, 2024. It was released in the United States by Paramount Pictures on September 20. Although it received positive reviews, the film underperformed at the box office. It earned almost $130 million worldwide.
“Let’s dive into the exciting cast behind Transformers One and see who’s bringing these iconic characters to life!”
Transformers One – Plot
Cybertron is a technological planet inhabited by Transformers. These are sentient robots powered by Energon and equipped with transformation cogs. Orion Pax is a mining robot who lacks a cog. He sneaks into an archive to watch a documentary about the original Cybertronians, the Primes. Security guards catch him, but he helps his friend D-16 escape. Later, a cave-in occurs in the Energon mine where they work.
Their fellow miner, Jazz, gets trapped. Orion and D-16 save him. However, their overseer, Darkwing, punishes them by demoting her to waste management. In Iacon, Sentinel Prime returns. He seeks the lost Matrix of Leadership, which caused Energon to stop flowing. Orion and his friends are briefly rewarded for boosting morale. But Sentinel, feeling threatened, sends them to the garbage incinerator. There, they discover a distress message from Alpha Trion. It contains surface coordinates.
They convince Elita-1 to join them on the journey. Alpha Trion reveals a shocking truth. Sentinel betrayed the Primes to steal the Matrix. But it vanished when Primus deemed him unworthy. He also reveals that all Cybertronians are born with cogs. Sentinel secretly removed the miners’ cogs before activation to control them. Sentinel’s forces then capture the group. D-16, B-127, and Star scream are taken prisoner.
Encouraged by Elita, Orion takes action. He rallies remaining High Guard captains Soundwave and Shockwave. Together, they rescue their comrades. They expose Sentinel by broadcasting memory recordings of his lieutenant, Airachnid, across the city. During the chaos, D-16 accidentally kills Sentinel.
He takes Megatronus’ cog and sparks a riot with the High Guard. Primus chooses Orion and grants him the Matrix. Orion is reborn as Optimus Prime. He defeats Megatron and exiles him along with the High Guard. Megatron then reforms the High Guard into the Decepticons. He adopts Megatronus’ face as their symbol and declares war on the Autobots.
Cast of Transformers One
Transformers One, an animated movie directed by Josh Cooley, is set on the planet of Cybertron, focusing on the relationship between Optimus Prime and Megatron. The film, reminiscent of Netflix’s War For Cybertron trilogy, features no human characters and aims to be a unique Transformers movie.
The voice cast includes talented actors, including some MCU stars and Academy Award nominees, who have voice acting experience. The film is based on the “untold origin story” written by Eric Pearson, Andrew Barrer, and Gabriel Ferrari, and centers on the history of the Transformers and the relationship between Orion Pax and D-16, who segue from brothers-in-arms to enemies as Optimus Prime and Megatron. The film’s star-studded voice cast includes Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Buscemi, Laurence Fishburne, and Jon Hamm.
Vanessa Liguori Spins Darkness as Airachnid
Vanessa Liguori is an actress known for her work in both film and television. While her exact birth details remain private, she has made a mark with her performance in the movie Exiled. On the small screen, she has appeared in popular shows such as The Super Man and Law & Order, showcasing her range and screen presence.
Vanessa Liguori’s Airachnid, a spider and jet hybrid, is a key character in Transformers One. She follows Sentinel Prime as his enforcer, a dark agenda that he pursues. Liguori’s caustic voice captures her sinister charm and calculating nature, making her one of the film’s most compelling villains.
Airachnid’s presence adds a layer of danger to the story, as she follows Sentinel Prime blindly and has a significant knock-down effect on Cybertron. Her character’s presence adds a chilling intensity to the film and adds a layer of danger to the story.
Chris Hemsworth Is Orion Pax
Chris Hemsworth, born on August 11, 1983, in Melbourne, Australia, is an internationally acclaimed actor best known for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His film credits also include The Cabin in the Woods and Ghostbusters, where he showcased his versatility across action, horror, and comedy. On television, he has appeared in shows like Dancing with the Stars and lent his voice to What If…? expanding his reach beyond live-action roles.
Chris Hemsworth stars as Orion Pax, a miner who dreams big and is the future Optimus Prime. He is seen as part of the lower class and sets out to find the Matrix of Leadership to become a legend. Hemsworth, known for his role as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This role brings his commanding presence and charisma to the role, portraying a younger, idealistic version of Optimus Prime filled with ambition and a sense of duty. His deep, resonant voice captures his strength and internal conflict as he steps into a destiny larger than himself.
Steve Buscemi Takes Flight as Starscream
Steve Buscemi, born on December 13, 1957, in Brooklyn, New York, is a highly respected and versatile actor known for his work in both film and television. He has delivered memorable performances in acclaimed films such as Fargo, Reservoir Dogs, and The Death of Stalin, often portraying quirky, intense, or morally complex characters.
On television, he gained widespread recognition for his Emmy-nominated role as Nucky Thompson in HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, and he’s also known for appearances in The Sopranos and Miracle Workers. Buscemi’s unique voice, expressive delivery, and talent for dark humour make him a standout presence in any project he joins.
Steve Buscemi, born in 1957 in Brooklyn, New York, gained fame in the late 1980s after working with the Coen Brothers. He gained recognition for his role in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs in 1992. Buscemi has collaborated with notable directors like Simon West, Michael Bay, and Adam Sandler.
He has also voiced Payday in Transformers: The Last Knight. Buscemi’s unique voice and quirky charm make him a perfect fit for Starscream, a key character in Transformers One. His sharp delivery and expressive tone add menace and humor to Starscream’s character, making him one of the film’s most memorable and unpredictable characters.
Brian Tyree Henry Voices the Gritty D-16
Brian Tyree Henry Born on March 31, 1982, in North Carolina, USA, Brian Tyree Henry is a versatile actor known for both film and television. His standout film roles include Child’s Play and Bullet Train, while on the small screen, he’s recognized for his performances in Atlanta and Class of ’09.
He delivers a compelling performance as D-16, the mining bot destined to become Megatron in Transformers One. D-16, initially a rebellious outcast, is driven by frustration over injustices on Cybertron. Henry’s voice work captures the character’s intensity and inner conflict, portraying a bot torn between loyalty and ambition.
As D-16’s path darkens, the seeds of Megatron’s rise take root, making Henry’s performance a crucial anchor in the film’s emotional and political narrative. Henry, known for his role as Phastos in the MCU and MonsterVerse Godzilla movies, has a dark edge to his character as he embarks on a social justice quest. Sadly, he loses parts of his soul and takes steps towards becoming a monster.
Scarlett Johansson Brings Strength to Elita-1
Scarlett Johansson, born on November 22, 1984, in New York, USA, is a celebrated actress known for her dynamic roles in both film and television. She has starred in acclaimed movies such as Black Widow, The Prestige, and Jojo Rabbit. On the small screen, she has made memorable appearances, including her voice work on the animated series Robot Chicken.
Scarlett Johansson plays Elita-1, a fearless Autobot warrior who reluctantly joins Orion on his journey. She is known for her role as Black Widow in the MCU and her roles in award-winning dramas like Lost in Translation and Marriage Story. Johansson’s comedic and witty nature allows her to banter with Orion, while also capturing the character’s resilience and loyalty.
She brings depth and intensity to Elita-1, capturing her as both a skilled fighter and compassionate leader. Johansson’s confident tone and emotional range make her stand out in a world of metal and war.
Laurence Fishburne Channels Wisdom as Alpha Trion
Laurence Fishburne, known for his iconic voice and commanding presence, plays Alpha Trion, an ancient and wise figure in the Transformers universe. Fishburne’s career includes roles in The Matrix trilogy, Boyz n the Hood, and John Wick. His portrayal of Alpha Trion is expected to add emotional weight and timeless wisdom to Transformers One, making him a vital part of the film’s journey through origin and transformation.
Fishburne’s acting career includes roles in The Matrix, John Wick, and other major franchises. In Transformers One, he plays Alpha Trion, the Autobot who gives Orion Pax, Megatron, Bumblebee, and Elita-One their All-Sparks to unlock their full capabilities.
Laurence Fishburne has a long and successful career, showcasing his versatility and versatility in various roles.
His early roles include:
- Tyrone ‘Clean’ Miller in Apocalypse Now
- Swain in The Color Purple
- Furious Styles in Boyz n the Hood
- Ike Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It
- Fishburne’s roles in sci-fi horror Event Horizon
- Morpheus in The Matrix trilogy
- Dr. Larabee in Akeelah and the Bee
- Theodore Brassel in Mission: Impossible III
Ronald Noland in Predators have solidified his reputation as a versatile actor. He has also appeared in the DC Extended Universe, Hannibal, John Wick, Ant-Man and the Wasp, and sports drama.
James Remar as Zeta Prime
James Remar, born on December 31, 1953, in Boston, USA, is a seasoned actor with a diverse career in both film and television. He is known for his roles in major films such as Oppenheimer, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Megalopolis. On television, Remar has delivered memorable performances in popular series like Sex and the City and Dexter, earning recognition for his strong screen presence and versatility.
James Remar, a diverse actor known for his roles in Transformers, returns as Zeta Prime in Transformers One. Remar, known for his complex and intense roles, brings depth to the character, a mercurial leader of Cybertron. His portrayal of Zeta Prime adds tension to the story, highlighting her moral ambiguity and power.
Remar’s portrayal of Zeta Prime gives her a strong presence, influencing the fate of both Autobots and Decepticons in the conflict. Remar’s diverse acting skills, including roles in Oppenheimer, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, and the Black Lightning series, make him a standout in the Transformers franchise.
FAQs
Q1: Who voices Optimus Prime in Transformers One?
A: Chris Hemsworth provides the voice for a young Optimus Prime, originally known as Orion Pax.
Q2: Who plays Megatron in the film?
A: Brian Tyree Henry voices D-16, who later becomes Megatron.
Q3: Is there a voice actor for Elita-1?
A: Yes, Scarlett Johansson voices Elita-1, one of the main female protagonists.
Q4: Who voices Alpha Trion?
A: Laurence Fishburne lends his voice to Alpha Trion, the wise and mysterious figure who reveals hidden truths.
Q5: Who plays Sentinel Prime?
A: Keegan-Michael Key voices Sentinel Prime, the leader with a hidden agenda.
Q6: Are there any comedic voices in the cast?
A: Yes, Jon Hamm provides a touch of humour and intensity in his role (as yet undisclosed), adding variety to the cast.
Q7: Is Peter Cullen part of Transformers One?
A: No, Peter Cullen does not voice Optimus Prime in this prequel. Chris Hemsworth portrays a younger version of the character.
Final Thoughts
Transformers One is an animated science fiction action film directed by Josh Cooley, based on Hasbro’s Transformers toy line. The story takes place on Cybertron, exploring the origins and early relationship of Optimus Prime and Megatron. The film was announced in August 2017 and confirmed in April 2020. The animation was done by Industrial Light & Magic, with a design style influenced by the Generation 1 era and Art Deco.
The musical score was composed by Brian Tyler. Transformers One premiered in Sydney, Australia, on September 11, 2024, and was released in the United States by Paramount Pictures on September 20. Despite receiving positive reviews, the film underperformed at the box office, earning almost $130 million worldwide. The main characters include Orion Pax, Orion Pax’s journey to becoming Optimus Prime, and the planet’s split due to a harrowing caste system.
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