I watched Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and I liked it. 3/5
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“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” (2023) is the latest installment in the long-running Transformers film franchise, directed by Steven Caple Jr. With this entry, the film takes a bold leap by introducing new elements, including the Maximals and Predacons, and delving deeper into the rich lore of the Transformers universe. While the film packs a visual punch and brings fresh faces to the robotic roster, it also grapples with some familiar pitfalls that have plagued the franchise in the past.
Visually, “Rise of the Beasts” is nothing short of spectacular. The CGI work is top-notch, seamlessly blending the Transformers into real-world environments. The action sequences are a sensory overload of metal-on-metal combat, explosions, and high-speed chases. Caple Jr. demonstrates a keen eye for dynamic shots, ensuring that the audience is treated to a visual feast. The Maximals and Predacons, new additions to the film, are brought to life with impressive attention to detail, their designs paying homage to their animated counterparts while introducing a fresh, modern look.
Where the film truly shines is in its world-building. “Rise of the Beasts” takes us on a globe-trotting adventure, from New York City to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Each location feels distinct and serves as a backdrop for thrilling action set pieces. The film also expands the Transformers mythology by introducing the Maximals and Predacons, bringing a new dynamic to the conflict between Autobots and Decepticons. This addition injects fresh energy into the narrative and opens up exciting possibilities for future installments.
The ensemble cast, led by Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback, brings charisma and energy to their roles. Ramos portrays Noah, a relatable protagonist who finds himself thrust into the midst of the Transformers’ battle. His journey from wide-eyed wonder to reluctant hero is convincingly portrayed. Fishback shines as Elena, a brilliant archaeologist with a personal connection to the Transformers’ history on Earth. Her character adds depth to the narrative, and Fishback’s performance lends emotional weight to the film.
Peter Cullen and Ron Perlman lend their iconic voices to Optimus Prime and Optimus Primal, respectively, providing a nostalgic touch for long-time fans. Their presence is a reminder of the enduring appeal of these characters and their significance in the Transformers legacy.
However, “Rise of the Beasts” is not without its drawbacks. The film struggles with pacing, particularly in the first act, as it works to establish the plot and introduce the new characters. The exposition-heavy scenes can feel clunky at times, and the pacing issues persist in some of the later action sequences, which occasionally border on sensory overload.
While the film introduces compelling new elements, it also grapples with some familiar tropes. The human characters, while engaging, sometimes take center stage to the detriment of the Transformers themselves. The emotional depth of the Autobots and Decepticons, a hallmark of the original animated series, is occasionally overshadowed by the human-centric plot.
Additionally, “Rise of the Beasts” leans heavily on its action sequences, often at the expense of character development and nuanced storytelling. The film occasionally sacrifices depth for spectacle, leaving some character arcs feeling underexplored.
In conclusion, “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” is a visually stunning addition to the Transformers franchise, introducing exciting new elements and expanding the mythology. The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, with Ramos and Fishback delivering standout performances. The action sequences are a thrill ride, showcasing the film’s technical prowess. However, pacing issues and a reliance on spectacle over character development prevent it from reaching its full potential. For fans of the franchise, “Rise of the Beasts” offers an entertaining and visually dazzling experience, even if it falls short of transcending the genre’s conventions.