Overview of “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”
CNN – The seventh installment in the toy-to-movie franchise that originated in 2007 (including the recent “Bumblebee”), “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” delves into both the past and a simplistic form of giant-robot warfare. In dire need of a script overhaul, this summer blockbuster machine falls short of expectations and lacks coherence.
One notable aspect, aside from the introduction of animal-shaped Transformers called Maximals, is the film’s 1994 setting. However, except for a well-selected soundtrack and a brief reference to the O.J. Simpson trial, the audience might struggle to recognize this temporal shift.
The plot, if it can be called such, revolves around the Autobots, led by Optimus Prime (voiced once again by Peter Cullen), joining forces with the Maximals to combat the malevolent Terrorcons and the world-threatening entity known as Unicron. For those familiar with Marvel lore, Unicron appears as a diluted version of Galactus.
Paramount’s ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beast
The unfortunate humans tasked with saving the world, along with their constant state of awe while looking skyward, are portrayed by Anthony Ramos (known for “In the Heights” and “Hamilton”) and Dominique Fishback (recently seen in the Amazon series “Swarm”). Both actors deserve better material. They join forces with the skeptical Optimus in pursuit of a crucial artifact that could restore the Autobots’ home but, in the wrong hands, poses a danger to the entire galaxy, awakening Unicron.
Apart from the celebrity voices lending their talents, including Michelle Yeoh, Pete Davidson, Peter Dinklage, and Ron Perlman, the movie primarily focuses on the scope and magnitude of the robot battles. Technically impressive, they remain characteristically chaotic.
Unfortunately, the movie slows down during the intervals between these battles, particularly when the human characters take center stage. Like many sequels this summer, “Rise of the Beasts” feels compelled to plant seeds for future installments, which doesn’t generate much enthusiasm considering the factory-like production quality of this film.
Admittedly, “Transformers,” rooted in Hasbro toys and the 1980s animated TV show, has always aimed to showcase the visual effects of the 21st century. Consequently, it must be judged on that basis. However, even by those standards, “Rise of the Beasts” lacks the endearing charm that somewhat elevated “Bumblebee.” The attempt to turn Davidson’s character, Mirage, into a comedic relief falls flat.
After directing the first five movies, producer Michael Bay has handed over the reins to Steven Caple Jr. (“Creed II”), resulting in no noticeable change in tone or style. Perhaps the main advantage of “Transformers” is that it has been six years since “The Last Knight,” potentially sparking a bit of demand among its fanbase.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts Ending Explained
Rise of the Beasts concludes with an exhilarating finale that pits Optimus Prime’s Autobots and Optimus Primal’s Maximals against the formidable Scourge, who serves as the herald of the all-powerful Unicron, a world-devouring villain. This marks Unicron’s first true live-action appearance, as the character gained fame in the 1986 animated film “The Transformers: The Movie” and was previously referenced in 2017’s “Transformers: The Last Knight.”
Paramount’s ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beast
The film reaches its climax as Scourge and his Terrorcons attempt to summon Unicron to Earth using the combined Transwarp Key. However, Mirage sacrifices himself to protect Noah, played by Anthony Ramos, from enemy fire and transforms into an exoskeleton suit.
Ultimately, Optimus manages to defeat Scourge, but the portal dilemma remains unsolved. Optimus destroys the Transwarp Key, nearly getting pulled into the collapsing portal. It is only through the combined efforts of Noah and Optimus Primal that Optimus is saved from a dire fate. This serves as a powerful reminder that our heroes are strongest when they stand united.
The ending of Rise of the Beasts leaves room for further exploration. While Scourge and the Terrorcons may be defeated, it is implied that Unicron still exists and will likely pose a future threat to the world. Although the Autobots have lost their means of returning to Cybertron with the Transwarp Key, Optimus finds solace in the friendships he has forged along the way.
As the story unfolds, Elena, portrayed by Dominique Fishback, receives well-deserved recognition for her work, while Noah’s future takes an intriguing turn as he secures a new position at a security firm. But this isn’t just any ordinary company. During his interview with a mysterious agent portrayed by Michael Kelly, Noah is handed a business card featuring the G.I. Joe logo. Due to his technological expertise and connection with the Autobots, Noah is being recruited into this covert military organization. This crossover marks the first-ever live-action meeting of the Transformers and G.I. Joe franchises.
The character played by Kelly makes it clear that he seeks to recruit Noah and the Autobots, stating, “We’re in the middle of an ongoing war.” The nature of this conflict is yet to be revealed.
Beyond the loyalists, however, everything here, pardon the expression, appears past its Prime.
By NewYork New9 and GPT
