"Transformers: Rise of the Beasts"
"Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" remains true to its core concept of giant space robots engaging in action-packed battles, but it surpasses many previous entries in the franchise. While it may not reach the same level of charm as "Bumblebee" in 2018, it is a significant improvement over the loud and chaotic blockbusters helmed by Michael Bay. Under the direction of Steven Caple Jr., known for "Creed II," the film gains a much-needed narrative focus and visual coherence. This allows audiences to fully comprehend and enjoy the massive action sequences, which is a definite advantage.
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"Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" offers a delightful dose of nostalgia for longtime fans, bringing beloved characters to life once again. Alongside the iconic Autobots led by Optimus Prime, voiced by the talented Peter Cullen, the film introduces Maximals from the "Transformers: Beast Wars" TV series and a lineup of intergalactic villains serving the planet-devouring Unicron, portrayed by Colman Domingo.
Their shared quest revolves around a powerful ancient artifact with immense destructive potential.What sets "Rise of the Beasts" apart is its surprising attention to the human characters caught in the midst of the epic battle between good and evil
. In a departure from the typical shallow portrayals and uninspiring dialogue of previous films, this installment demonstrates genuine care for its human protagonists. Thanks to the screenplay crafted by a team of five, likable actors Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback are given the opportunity to create characters that resonate and evoke genuine empathy from the audience.
Despite the inherent contradiction, "Rise of the Beasts" and Travis Knight's '80s-set "Bumblebee" stand out precisely because they infuse humanity into a story about otherworldly beings masquerading as cars and trucks.
.While not a absolute aftereffect to "Bumblebee," the blur takes abode anon afterwards the contest of 1994, afore the aboriginal "Transformers" movie. Set in a gritty, pre-Giuliani era New York City, the story follows Noah Diaz (portrayed by Anthony Ramos), a former military electronics expert searching for employment to support his family.
His younger brother Kris (Dean Scott Vazquez), who suffers from a chronic illness, adds another layer of complexity to Noah's journey. Simultaneously, Elena (played by Dominique Fishback) strives to establish herself as a knowledgeable artifacts expert at a museum on Ellis Island, defying expectations and prejudices placed upon young people of color by the predominantly white authority figures.
This added context and social criticism provides a deeper dimension rarely seen in similar films.
As they become entangled in the search for the vital Transwarp Key, Noah inadvertently encountering an Autobot when attempting to steal a Porsche, and Elena delving into the study of a mysterious sculpture with enigmatic symbols, the dynamic between Ramos and Pete Davidson's Mirage adds an enjoyable element to "Rise of the Beasts." Davidson's portrayal perfectly captures his irreverent and playful persona, making it perhaps his standout performance to date.
The voice cast features notable talents, including Michelle Yeoh as the majestic Maximal falcon Airazor, Ron Perlman as the powerful gorilla Optimus Primal, and Peter Dinklage as the ruthless Scourge, Unicron's loyal lieutenant. Cristo Fernández brings his sunny Dani Rojas personality from "Ted Lasso" to life as the 1970s Volkswagen bus named Wheeljack, adding to the film's charm.
The admittance of '90s hip-hop abstract from artists like A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, Diggable Planets, and The Notorious B.I.G. enhances the film's infectious vibe and provides a fitting backdrop.
Despite its efforts, "Rise of the Beasts" adheres to the familiar formula of every Transformers movie by culminating in an extensive and seemingly never-ending battle sequence, where large metallic entities collide in a cacophony of noise. While the smaller-scale special effects are impressive and provide a more engaging experience, the ultimate climax fails to match the excitement of the preceding action.
One underlying issue is the lack of genuine stakes in the film. As viewers, we are aware of the eventual fate of these characters and their survival through multiple future movies. Additionally, a mid-credits scene hints at further installments in the cinematic universe, reinforcing the notion that there will always be more to come. Consequently, viewers are left with the realization that the outcome is predictable, urging them to brace themselves for what lies ahead.
Film Credits
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023)
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, and language.
127 minutes
Cast
Anthony Ramos as Noah Diaz
Dominique Fishback as Elena Wallace
Luna Lauren Velez as Mrs. Diaz
Tobe Nwigwe as Reek
Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime (voice)
Ron Perlman as Optimus Primal (voice)
Peter Dinklage as Scourge (voice)
Michelle Yeoh as Airazor (voice)
Liza Koshy as Arcee (voice)
John DiMaggio as Stratosphere / Transit (voice)
David Sobolov as Rhinox / Battletrap (voice)
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez as Nightbird (voice)
Pete Davidson as Mirage (voice)
Cristo Fernández as Wheeljack (voice)
Tongayi Chirisa as Cheetor (voice)
Colman Domingo as Unicron (voice)
