Introduction
The latest addition to the Transformers franchise, “Transformers: Rise Of The Beasts,” has rolled into theaters with its metallic VFX, action-packed sequences, and a star-studded cast led by Dominique Fishback and Anthony Ramos. While the film offers some enjoyable elements, it fails to escape the trap of logical inconsistencies and derivative storytelling that has plagued previous installments. Join us as we delve into the highs and lows of this sci-fi adventure.
A Mixed Bag of Excitement
“Transformers: Rise Of The Beasts” does manage to deliver some excitement. The charismatic performances of Dominique Fishback and Anthony Ramos as the glowy MacGuffin chasers bring a much-needed human touch to the robot-heavy narrative. Moreover, the ’90s hip hop soundtrack adds a nostalgic flair, resonating well with audiences.
Logical Lapses and Gaffes Galore
However, beneath the flashy action and engaging performances lies a web of logical lapses and head-scratching gaffes. The introduction of the Maximals, giant robo-animal creatures, is perplexing. Their peculiar combination of fur and feathers with metallic bodies raises questions about their origin and disguise on Earth. Why would these alien creatures choose to resemble Earth animals on a planet unfamiliar to them? It is a confusing and illogical design choice that disrupts the film’s credibility.
Setting Up a Hasbro Cinematic Universe
While the film attempts to set up a Hasbro Cinematic Universe, the execution feels clumsy and forced. Instead of seamlessly weaving the different franchises together, it results in a haphazard combination of elements that lack cohesion and depth.
Lack of Jeopardy and Familiarity
Set approximately 13 years before the events of the first Transformers movie, “Rise Of The Beasts” struggles to generate real jeopardy. The presence of familiar characters like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee undermines the tension, as audiences are well aware that these beloved figures will survive the cosmic battles unscathed. This lack of stakes dilutes the emotional impact of the narrative.
Faint Nostalgia and Déjà Vu
For fans of the 1986 animated movie, the call-backs to classic characters like Unicron, Scourge, and Arcee might evoke a sense of nostalgia. However, the film’s climax, which borrows heavily from “Avengers: Infinity War,” feels more like déjà vu than a heartfelt homage.
Conclusion
“Transformers: Rise Of The Beasts” presents an enjoyable yet flawed addition to the Transformers franchise. The movie boasts some entertaining elements, such as standout performances by Dominique Fishback and Anthony Ramos, as well as witty jokes and nods to the 1986 animated movie. However, these positives are overshadowed by glaring logical inconsistencies, clumsy universe-building attempts, and a lack of jeopardy due to the inclusion of familiar characters. While it lacks the ‘ick’ factor of earlier Transformers films, “Rise Of The Beasts” ultimately falls short of delivering a truly transformative cinematic experience.
