Transformers One: A New Era Begins with Chris Hemsworth as the Young Optimus Prime
Get ready to roll out with a new generation of Transformers as Transformers One takes us back to the beginning, 3 billion years before the iconic battles we’ve come to know and love. This prequel, set to hit theaters on September 20, explores the origins of Optimus Prime and Megatron, two characters who have become synonymous with the franchise.
Stepping out of the Shadows: Chris Hemsworth Embraces a New Prime
Peter Cullen, the legendary voice actor who has brought Optimus Prime to life for decades, has become so intertwined with the character that it’s nearly impossible to separate the two. But in Transformers One, a new voice takes the helm: Chris Hemsworth. Hemsworth, known for his roles as Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and in action-packed films like Extraction, tackles this iconic role with both reverence and a unique spin.
"What Peter Cullen has done with the character is so incredible," Hemsworth said at Comic-Con during the film’s panel. "It’s iconic, and the thing that is equally inspiring is also terrifying when trying to play the character. But the goal was never to mimic or sound like Peter Cullen."
Instead of trying to replicate Cullen’s iconic voice, Hemsworth dives into a younger, more energetic iteration of Orion Pax, as Optimus Prime was known before his leadership role emerged. We get a glimpse of a brash, cocky, and idealistic Prime, full of ambition and hope, before the weighty responsibilities of leading the Autobots fully shaped his character. "The youthfulness and the banter and the humor were really important," explained Hemsworth.
A Glimpse into the Past: Witnessing the Rise of Friendship and the Fall of Trust
Transformers One offers a refreshing perspective on the Transformers universe, delving into a time before the Autobot-Decepticon conflict became a defining characteristic. "Usually when we see the Transformers it’s like ‘WAR!’ and everything is already ready to go," remarked Bryan Tyree Henry, the voice behind Megatron. "And with this one, you get to see them discover all these different parts of themselves."
The film explores the deep friendship between Orion Pax and Megatron, before their ideologies diverged and their bond shattered. This dynamic, full of youthful camaraderie and hopes for a brighter future, forms the heart of Transformers One. We see their journey from close allies to arch-enemies, offering a fresh understanding of the motivations and struggles that ultimately defined their destinies.
A Unique Take on Iconic Characters: Embracing Originality
Both Hemsworth and Henry approached their roles with a focus on individuality, understanding the importance of honoring the legacy of the characters while also making their portrayals distinct. Hemsworth emphasizes the eagerness and enthusiasm of the younger Orion Pax, highlighting his idealistic aspirations and hopes. This contrasts with the more stoic, measured Prime we’ve seen in previous iterations of the Transformers universe.
"There was an eagerness and enthusiasm between both of the characters," said Hemsworth. "Slightly idealistic. They have larger hopes and dreams for what they can become. And that, I found, helped ground the story. To begin with the characters as we know them would have been, again, mimicking something would’ve felt too similar to what we’ve seen. So it felt like an original story there when I read the script which I was incredibly excited about."
A New Chapter in the Transformers Legacy
Transformers One promises a fresh perspective on a beloved franchise, exploring the origins of Optimus Prime and Megatron in a captivating and emotional narrative. By focusing on the characters’ youthful journeys and the complexities of their early friendship, the film offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Transformers on a new level. In a universe often defined by epic battles and intense conflicts, Transformers One delves into the moments of hope and camaraderie that shaped the characters’ destinies, making this prequel a must-see for both longtime fans and newcomers to the Transformers world.
Prepare to be transported to the very beginning as Transformers One unveils a thrilling new chapter in the Transformers legacy, offering a glimpse into a past filled with potential and the origins of a destined rivalry.
