Transformers: Rise of the Beastsis the latest addition to theTransformersfranchise, set in the year 1994. The movie revolves around two archeologists from Brooklyn who become entangled in a centuries-old conflict involving three factions of Transformers: the Maximals, the Predacons, and the Terrorcons. The film takes audiences on a globe-trotting adventure alongside the Autobots, introducing a host of characters from the franchise’s extensive lore. Optimus Primal, Rhinox, Airazor, and Cheetor make their appearances, capturing the hearts of some fans and expanding theTransformersuniverse.
The early reception of the movie has been a mixed bag, with differing scores from the audience and critics. On one hand, the film has achieved a 88% audience score, making it the highest-rated film in the franchise’s 16-year history. However, the critical reviews have presented a contrasting perspective. Initially,the movie received favorable reviewscomparable to the critically acclaimedBumblebeeinstallment. Unfortunately, a surge of negative reviews subsequently caused the critic score to decline from its initial peak in the 70s to aless favorable 55% on Rotten Tomatoes. This divergence in opinions between audiences and critics highlights the subjective nature of movie reception and sets up an intriguing discussion around the overall merit and appeal ofTransformers: Rise of the Beasts.
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Transformers: Rise of the Beasts Breathes New Life into the Franchise
TheTransformersfranchise has experienced a significant resurgence with the release ofTransformers: Rise of the Beasts. Unlike its predecessors, such asRevenge of the Fallen, Dark of the Moon, Age of Extinction,andThe Last Knight,which received mixed receptions from audiences,Rise of the Beastshas struck a chord with viewers. This latest installment has reinvigorated the franchise, thanks in part to the positive impact of the 2018 filmBumblebee. It set the stage forRise of the Beaststo build upon the improved direction established by its predecessor, offering an action-packed and nostalgia-filled adventure.
MovieWeb’s Julian Romandraws a comparison betweenRise of the Beastsand theBumblebee, commending the movie for its selection of the franchise’s most compelling elements from its lore, which are then reimagined with well-defined characters.
“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts continues the better narrative footing established by Bumblebee. The sequel of sorts again reshapes the franchise with an action-packed, throwback adventure loaded with exciting new characters.”
Transformers: Rise of the Beastsboasts an impressive ensemble cast led by Anthony Ramos, known for his role inIn the Heights,as Noah, an ex-military electronics expert who unexpectedly becomes entangled in the fierce intergalactic conflict between rival factions of robots. Joining him is Dominique Fishback, recognized for her performance inBlack Messiah, portraying Elena. Adding to the stellar lineup are notable talents such as Lauren Vélez fromSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, rapper Tobe Nwigwe, and the iconic Peter Cullen returning as the voice of Optimus Prime. The film also features Pete Davidson as Mirage, Grey Griffin as Arcee, Sebastian Maniscalco as Wheeljack, Ron Perlman as Optimus Primal, and the versatile Michelle Yeoh fromEverything, Everywhere All at Onceas Airazor.
Transformers: Rise of the Beastsis set to hit theaters on June 17, 2025.
