Transformers Prime
Transformers Prime is the latest imagining
of the series about sentient robots who can transform from vehicles to
robots and back again. |
Hailing from the planet Cybertron, there are two factions; the good
guys, called the Autobots, and their enemies, the Decepticons. The
Autobots are sworn to protect humanity, whereas the Decepticons would
either destroy us all or subject us to being their slaves. The Autobots
leader is Optimus Prime, and the Decepticons leader is named Megatron.
Have you got it? Great!
Having been a fan of the Transformers for most of my life, it's always
hard to imagine a world that has people who have not heard of one of the
best series ever but there you go.
After the success of the Michael Bay directed blockbuster movies, I am
really pleased that a new animated series was started to bring viewers
into the fold with a tale that is exceedingly well told and contains a
surprising amount of depth as well. It's been about three years since
the evil Megatron has been seen on Earth and Starscream has taken over
as leader of the Decepticons. The war against the Autobots has
continued, although sightings of them have been few and far between.
They do exist though and are out there protecting the people of Earth
from both the Decepticons and themselves.
Gradually we are introduced to all the characters and learn more about
their roles in this brave new Transformers world. Humans also become
aware of the struggle, three kids in fact, and are taken under the
protective wing of Optimus Prime and his loyal robots. The Autobot army
is small and in fact a member is lost forever in the opening sequence of
the movie.
Upon the return of Megatron from deep space, the Autobots learn that the
danger presented is far worse than expected, with Megatron possessing
the ability to raise fallen Autobots and Decepticons from the dead and
subjugating them to his will, creating a crazed army who's only ambition
is to kill anything that moves.
This is a great looking series with a fresh approach to how the
Transformers look in this incarnation. The slender body shapes of most
characters and expressive eyes reminded me of a lot of anime series out
there on the market. The animations are smooth and both robot and
vehicle modes very well realised. A toy series has also sprung out of
this which looks very promising.
What was a particular thrill was the return of voice talents Peter
Cullen as Optimus Prime and Frank Welker as Megatron, having been
stalwarts of these characters quite literally from day one. I cannot
imagine a time that Cullen in particular does not voice Prime. I utterly
love watching this and I do hope that I get to see more of the series,
with two seasons already aired in the USA.
The Transformers are back baby and I am totally thrilled!
Tory Favro
