The teaser trailer for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts has been released, offering fans a thrilling glimpse of the 90s nostalgia and fresh characters that will be featured in this new addition to the Transformers film series. This film marks the beginning of a new trilogy, following the same continuity as the 2018 movie Bumblebee. Drawing inspiration from the 1996 television show Transformers: Beast Wars, the movie introduces two new factions of Transformers: the animalistic Maximals and the dangerous Terrorcons. The teaser trailer showcases a diverse range of Transformers that will grace the big screen, setting the stage for an action-packed adventure.
The trailer wastes no time and immediately immerses viewers in the excitement with a colossal mechanical gorilla, reminiscent of King Kong, leaping into the scene. This iconic moment introduces Optimus Primal, the leader of the Maximals, portrayed with immense power. Similar to Optimus Prime leading the Autobots, Optimus Primal takes charge of the Maximals, a faction descended from the Autobots, as they continue their fight against evil forces. While the trailer doesn’t confirm it, it is likely that the Maximals have also traveled from the future, with Primal warning Optimus Prime of impending danger from both their past and future.
What sets the Maximals apart is their choice of transformation, disguising themselves as animals instead of vehicles. This explains the sight of a giant robotic gorilla facing off against Optimus Prime. The encounter between Optimus Prime and Optimus Primal symbolizes a confrontation between two formidable forces destined to become strong allies. Their designs pay homage to the classic Transformers and Transformers: Beast Wars shows. Optimus Prime, voiced by his iconic actor Peter Cullen, retains his familiar appearance with a boxy frame and his signature faceplate. He also sports his vintage flat-nosed truck form, showcasing vibrant red, blue, and silver colors.
Bumblebee, with an upgraded design from his 2018 movie, is also featured in the trailer. This revamped version bridges the gap between the 80s and 2000s iterations of the character, blending recognizable features with a modernized retro look. Although Bumblebee was the star of the previous Transformers film, he will now share the spotlight with other new cast members. The trailer introduces Noah and Mirage, with Noah serving as the essential human ally for the Autobots, echoing the legacy of Sam Witwicky. Mirage, voiced by Pete Davidson, demonstrates his ability to create decoy holograms to escape pursuers.
The trailer unveils an expanded roster of Transformers, showcasing thrilling action shots. Bumblebee is seen in off-road vehicle mode, while Cheetor, a Maximal, looms over him as a mechanized cheetah with a more Cybertronian appearance. The interactions between these two yellow bots, both possessing a youthful and confident nature, will captivate fans. The teaser also offers glimpses of Airazor, a falcon-like Maximal voiced by Michelle Yeoh, and Arcee, the iconic female Autobot. Arcee’s inclusion represents an exciting progression for the franchise. The trailer showcases her skating across the road while grabbing onto a Volkswagen camper van, which is actually another Autobot named Wheeljack in disguise. Additionally, Rhinox, a powerful Maximal and loyal ally, is shown in his mechanical rhinoceros form.