Transformers One Filmmakers Weigh in on Potential R-Rated Installment (Exclusive)

Transformers One Filmmakers Weigh in on Potential R-Rated Installment (Exclusive)

As a longtime fan of the Transformers franchise, I find it refreshing to see the series branching out and catering to younger audiences with the upcoming animated film “Transformers One“. While I have fond memories of the 1986 G1 animated movie, I’ve also grown with the franchise and appreciate the more mature storylines that have emerged in recent years.


In a fresh approach for the Transformers franchise, Transformers One intends to captivate younger viewers with an action-packed animated movie, as the previous Transformers films have traditionally catered more to teenagers and young adults. The kid-friendly content has predominantly been presented through television shows, comic books, and other media outlets.

Transformers One Filmmakers Weigh in on Potential R-Rated Installment (Exclusive)

Over the past few years, there has been a significant change in the way the Transformers Universe is being constructed. The Transformers comics from Image Comics have been rebooted within a fresh “Energon Universe” that intertwines with a new series of G.I. Joe comics; this cross-over is also being developed for the live-action film universe, as hinted at in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023). Given that there are numerous Transformers projects now catering to an older audience, it’s worth questioning how much longer the original Transformers franchise can remain in the kiddie pool.

At the promotional event for “Transformers One,” Chris Killian from ComicBook inquired whether a rated-R Transformers movie (of any genre) might be forthcoming from longtime Transformers film producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura. Surprisingly, he didn’t seem keen on the idea:

As a movie enthusiast like yourself, I can honestly say that pushing the boundaries of storytelling is something I find incredibly exciting. However, it’s crucial to remember that such innovations often come at a high cost. Our aim is to create movies that are accessible and enjoyable for everyone, not just a select few. So, while I’m thrilled by the prospect of exploring new territories, I want to ensure we maintain our commitment to all audiences and avoid any unexpected changes that might upset or surprise our dedicated fans.

Daniel Warren Johnson’s Transformers comic offers a fresh and astonishing perspective on the Transformers universe. It retains the contemporary backdrop of the original G1 cartoon, but infuses it with elements from the G.I. Joe narrative. However, this work carries a distinctive science fiction/horror atmosphere: Earth becoming a battleground for colossal robots results in a significant loss of human life. The Autobots and Decepticons are portrayed as ruthless and lethal combatants in their relentless struggle to the death. Johnson’s interpretation of Transformers comes closest to recreating the shockingly intense (and potentially traumatizing) experience of Transformers: The Movie (1986). As Lorenzo di Bonaventura is well aware, that ’80s animated film did not receive much critical or commercial acclaim (with an estimated box office of $2-$6 million, against a budget of $5-$6 million. Projects like Michael Bay’s Transformers films (all rated PG-13 for broad audience appeal) represent a stark contrast to this gritty and darker vision.

In other words, although R-rated comics versions of Transformers might succeed, it seems unlikely that such a concept would lead to a successful live-action adaptation.

Transformers One will be released in theaters on September 20th.

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2024-09-13 00:40