Overhated & Underrated: The Most Underrated Transformers Movie of All Time is Already Being Forgotten

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Growing up in the early 2000s, I have a lot of nostalgia for the Transformers franchise, especially the first three Michael Bay movies. While the series eventually lost steam, those original films were truly memorable. It’s surprising, considering some of the problematic themes, that Transformers became so popular. Sadly, when the franchise continued with a second animated movie after nearly 40 years, fans weren’t as interested.

It was understandable to be skeptical when Transformers One was announced as an origin story for Optimus Prime and Megatron, especially with a star-studded voice cast like Chris Hemsworth, Bryan Tyree-Henry, and Scarlett Johansson. Many wondered how those famous voices would fit the iconic characters. Although the movie didn’t make a big splash at the box office, it quietly earned a lot of positive buzz. While it wasn’t enough to revitalize the franchise – and is already fading from memory – Transformers One stands out as the most overlooked gem in the entire series.

Transformers One Isn’t Perfect, But It Knows Its Audience

This article isn’t about whether Transformers One is a perfect movie. While some parts – like Bumblebee’s over-the-top energy or the serious way Optimus Prime and Elita-1 speak – might not hold up over time, it’s interesting to see Optimus Prime act silly for much of the film before becoming a leader. What really stands out is that the writers seem to truly understand what fans want – more so than many other franchises.

Making a Transformers movie that appeals to both kids and adults is a tough challenge. However, Transformers One demonstrates that the key is authenticity. While there are some juvenile jokes – like Orion flipping off a superior officer – the film also features genuinely impactful and serious moments. A prime example is when D-16, who later becomes Megatron, discovers Sentinel Prime’s treachery and his plan to publicly execute him before the Cybertronian people.

The film skillfully balances lighthearted adventure with darker, more complex scenes, demonstrating the franchise’s range. What truly stands out, and often goes unnoticed, is its willingness to address mature themes for a younger audience. Megatron’s descent into villainy feels earned – he definitively betrays a friend and commits a shocking act. Unlike some films that rely on comedic twists to explain villainous behavior, Transformers One handles serious moments with genuine weight, allowing it to explore important topics while remaining an enjoyable adventure.

I really appreciate animated movies made for kids that also have a story depth adults can enjoy. That’s what makes Transformers One stand out – it builds on the original film, which tried the same thing but ended up with a surprisingly high body count! With exciting visuals, action, humor, and relatable themes about growing up, this movie offers something for everyone. It’s impressive because so few animated films these days actually have a meaningful message.

Transformers One Reinvents and Revives Optimus Prime and Megatron’s Rivalry

Understanding who the movie is for definitely helps with Transformers One. But what really makes it work, especially since the film aims to show a tragic story, is how cleverly it portrays the connection between the characters. Even though it’s made for a younger audience, I initially found their teenage antics and unusual behavior a little tiresome. I didn’t realize at first that Orion’s hopeful personality would inspire his future identity, or that D-16’s ambition and admiration for Megatronus Prime would be what ultimately caused the war against those who, like Sentinel Prime, aren’t who they seem. However, once these elements come together, the movie’s true potential is revealed, and it’s truly impressive.

The relationship between Orion Pax and D-16 mirrors the dynamic between Moses and Ramses in The Prince of Egypt. They were like brothers, growing up together and sharing a life, but their differing beliefs ultimately drove them apart. Seeing their friendship fall apart in Transformers One felt like watching a school friend become someone unrecognizable later in life. It’s sad – and often inevitable – when friends grow apart and change. Despite the film’s action and conflict, it’s particularly tragic to see D-16 become an enemy and lose his connection with, and optimism towards, his best friend.

As a huge Transformers fan, I was really impressed with how Transformers One reimagined Optimus Prime and Megatron. Instead of the usual setup where Megatron’s always the villain and Optimus the humble hero, this movie shows them starting from the same place, doing the same job. It’s not about good versus evil from the beginning, but about how their choices shaped them. One of them questioned things, and the other’s loyalty ultimately led to a heartbreaking betrayal. These changes actually made me understand both characters, and honestly, it added a real sense of tragedy to their stories – especially watching Optimus rise and Megatron fall. It’s a fresh take that really works!

The reason this pairing doesn’t get enough attention is that people are too caught up in the rivalry to consider how it all began. It’s disappointing to see so much effort put into a moving and impactful story, only for it to be overshadowed by flashy action and clever dialogue. Transformers One aims to give a new generation a clear understanding of Optimus Prime and Megatron’s beginnings, and I believe its creative decisions will ultimately be seen as strong ones.

The moment Megatron destroyed Sentinel Prime was one of the most surprising deaths I’ve witnessed in a family film, but it felt earned, unlike some of the more gratuitous violence in the original 1986 movie. Similarly, watching Optimus Prime become the leader of a liberated Cybertron felt truly epic – you could see the intention behind every shot, starting with the Primes bestowing upon him the Matrix of Leadership. It’s a clever and impactful backstory for both characters, and it’s frustrating that this film – which likely won’t get a sequel – seems to be underappreciated, perhaps simply because it didn’t have the support it needed to really take off.

Bad Marketing Doesn’t Mean Transformers One is Bad

For big franchise movies, effective marketing is crucial for success. Just look at films like Pirates of the Caribbean and the upcoming Wicked – marketing is almost as important as the movie itself. That’s why it’s surprising that Transformers One didn’t receive a more substantial marketing push. The way it was promoted seemed to emphasize humor, which unfortunately gave the impression it was just another lighthearted kids’ movie, rather than a film worth taking seriously.

The film is strangely positioned: it contains many of the flaws that would typically cause a movie to be ignored, but it actually possesses genuine quality that resonates with viewers. It’s fascinating how long it usually takes for a movie to gain an ‘underrated’ status, but Transformers One seemed to achieve it almost immediately. Sadly, this film may have effectively stalled or even ended the Transformers franchise in theaters. This is especially unfair because it had everything needed to revitalize the brand and reconnect with fans, potentially making it stronger than before.

Transformers One goes above and beyond by adding depth to the franchise, even clarifying the origins of the names ‘Autobots’ and ‘Decepticons.’ As a kid, I simply thought ‘Autobots’ referred to their vehicle transformations and ‘Decepticons’ described their trickery. The movie reveals a more thoughtful backstory: ‘Autobots’ are named for their fight for independence, and ‘Decepticons’ aim to unmask deceitful foes, like Sentinel Prime. While these details might seem minor, they contribute to a richer, more detailed universe.

Despite being overlooked, Transformers One truly lives up to its name, feeling like the beginning of something special. In fact, it’s a more enjoyable and ambitious film than the previous live-action Transformers movies, making it surprisingly underrated. The vibrant animation and strong voice performances build a world that feels both fresh and familiar, and many viewers – including myself – have really enjoyed it. It’s time Transformers One received the recognition it deserves, before it fades into obscurity. It’s easily the most underrated film in the Transformers series.

Come back in two weeks to see Jamie Parker defend a little-known Western series.

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2025-11-20 20:08