The question at hand is not the quality of the new Transformers movie, but rather its classification as a Transformers movie. “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” both is and isn’t a Transformers movie. The movie includes the iconic talking alien robots, but also introduces new characters. The creator of the series, Michael Bay, stepped back into a producer role, allowing Travis Knight and Steven Caple Jr. to take the director’s chair for recent installments. Both “Bumblebee” and “Beasts” prioritize character and story, a refreshing departure from the earlier, drawn-out films.
“Beasts” is a follow-up to “Bumblebee,” set in 1994, and is a story filled with violence and chaos. Yet, it still focuses on the relationship between one of its human heroes, Noah, and his ailing younger brother, Kris. The film closes with an exciting teaser for a crossover event with one of Hasbro’s other toy lines and movie franchises creating an extended commercial for the company. The movie also includes a line that may go over the younger audience’s heads, but the inclusion of the popular catchphrase is a minor detail in an otherwise action-packed film.
The story follows Noah, Mirage, and the other Autobots as they search for an ancient object that could help them or their enemies. The chase takes them to the jungles of Peru where they encounter a host of new characters, including the Maximals, animal robots who “maximize” for battle. Though the film offers a diverse cast, humor, and some adult jokes, it may still only appeal to those with a childlike love of the franchise.
Rated PG-13 and 117 minutes long, “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” contains intense sci-fi action, violence, and strong language. It is currently playing in area theaters.
