Classic 80s Movie Review - Transformers the Movie

It should be a crime not to know the full impact of the Transformers franchise in Western animation throughout the 1980s. The television series garnered the attention of millions of fans - both kids and adults - worldwide. With legendary characters like Optimus Prime and an epic battle between good and evil between the Autobots and the Decepticons in an original action-packed sci-fi universe, what's not to love?

Transformers the Movie - The Eighties Movie Review

Transformers the Movie (1986) is one of the greatest classic movies of the eighties, when animation was on still on the rise to mainstream audiences (and arguably had better quality and darker themes). Not only is it a defining cinematic presentation of the franchise, the movie has one of the greatest metal soundtracks. Just watching the movie and listening to the music (timed perfectly with the action scenes) triggers some major nostalgia, especially if you were a kid growing up during the time.

When the movie was released in the 80s, it failed to achieve mainstream success. However, it is one of the most critically acclaimed animated cult movies, having a loyal fan base to this day.

The Storyline

The plot of Transformers the Movie bridges the gap between season two and season three of the television cartoon series. Unicron, a gigantic artificial planet that literally eats other planets, becomes a major threat to Earth and everything on it. The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons escalates higher than it has ever been (such as the famous descisive battle between Optimus Prime and Megatron) and the Autobot Matrix of Leadership becomes the only way to stop Unicron from destroying everything. The movie makes great leaps in its style, having a much darker tone than the television series. It's also not easy to stomach the deaths of the major characters of the story (who have been there since the very beginning) - especially if you were a fan as a kid.

Critics didn't like that the movie drastically changed the direction of the entire franchise, but it was all for the better. All the events, thrills, and twists have a purpose and the emotional attachment you gain for the characters amplifies the impact of each scene. From the opening scene in which Unicron devastates an entire planet and all its robot inhabitants to the nerve-wracking battle between Optimus Prime and Megatron, to the final climatic clash of all sides and Unicron in deep space, this movie does not fail to appease the nostalgic 80's fan. Since this is a 80s movie review, it would defeat the purpose if this cult classic doesn't bring the memories flooding back.

80's Music Redefined

And who could forget the distinctive metal soundtrack that defines the movie? The experience would never be the same without songs like "The Touch" by Stan Bush, "Nothing's Gonna Stand in Our Way" by Spectre General, and other big names from the 1980s. The Transformers the Movie: Original Motion Soundtrack can be bought here at Amazon.com.

Why Was Transformers the Movie a Classic 80s Movie?

It has all the elements - great 80's music, nostalgic memories of animation years ago, and a testament to being the first true movie of a legendary franchise. It also features the final roles of Orson Welles (voice of Unicron) and Scatman Crothers (voice of Jazz) before their deaths - both have perfectly captured the essence of their characters' voices in the film. Transformers the Movie is not without its flaws but there's something for everyone - comedy, action, adventure, and a truly original story.

Where to Buy the Transformers the Movie DVD and Soundtrack?

Transformers the Movie - (20^th Anniversary Special Edition): Amazon.com

Buy the Transformers the Movie DVD at Best Buy

Transformers the Movie - Madman.com

Buy Transformers the Movie at CinemaBlend.com

Transformers the Movie: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Amazon.com

Transformers the Movie - Buy the DVD/Video or Rent Online - Yahoo! Movies