**SPOILERS AHEAD!!!! PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK**
Transformers One, the latest animated instalment in the Transformers franchise, introduces a new chapter in the lore of Cybertron, exploring the origin stories of Optimus Prime and Megatron. With Chris Hemsworth voicing Orion Pax (who eventually becomes Optimus Prime) and Brian Tyree Henry as D-16 (who ultimately turns into Megatron), this fully CG-animated movie dives deep into their early days as brothers-in-arms before their inevitable fallout.
Set against the backdrop of a Cybertron plagued by the aftermath of a devastating war with the Quintessons, the film explores the power struggles and betrayals in the society that leads to the rise of two distinct factions – the Autobots and the Decepticons. The film concludes with Orion Pax transforming into Optimus Prime and taking a stand against Megatron, leading to the rekindling of Energon flow and the rebirth of Cybertron under new leadership.
However, the film’s narrative does not conclude with the main storyline. The film includes a lighter moment in its first mid-credits scene, adding a touch of humour amidst the overarching tension. Here, B-127 (Keegan-Michael Key), who is technically never named Bumblebee but will eventually become the fan-favourite, returns to his old friends at Sub Level 50, where he previously worked. In a humorous yet unfortunate mishap, Bumblebee accidentally kills his fake friends, Steve and AA Tron, with his blades. This gag scene provides a brief comedic relief, balancing the intense developments of the mid and post-credits scene.
In the compelling post-credits scene, the seeds are sown for the next major conflict in the Transformers saga. This scene showcases Megatron, now fully embodying his new identity, alongside key stalwarts including Starscream (Steve Buscemi), Soundwave, and Shockwave. Together, they enact a ritual of defiance and unity, branding themselves with the Decepticon logo – a symbol derived from the face of Megatronus Prime, indicating their allegiance and transformation into the Decepticons.
This moment is charged with significant implications for the future, setting the stage for the rise of the Decepticons as a formidable force against the Autobots, though the movie didn’t spend time explaining why Optimus and the rest called themselves the Autobots. The branding scene serves as a declaration of their new identity with the slogan “the ones who will not be deceived”, positioning the Decepticons not merely as villains but as a group with their own ideologies and grievances.
The creation of the Decepticons marks a pivotal shift in the Transformers narrative, promising future battles and deepening the ideological divides between the newly formed factions. This post-credits scene effectively sets up a narrative arc that could explore the events leading to the war that eventually devastates Cybertron, offering a deeper look into the complexities of these character dynamics and the broader universe.
Transformers One not only offers fans a visually stunning and emotionally nuanced backstory but also cleverly lays the groundwork for new stories in the franchise. As the Autobots and Decepticons gear up for their iconic battles, the stage is set for more thrilling adventures and epic showdowns in the world of Transformers.