Back in the 1980s, Hasbro launched a line of toys called Transformers, and I’m pretty sure that even they didn’t know they were creating history. This iconic brand quickly evolved, leading to an animated series and an animated movie. However, the real magic happened in 2007 when Transformers received its first live-action adaptation, directed by Michael Bay. The film captivated fans and was followed by several sequels, with a brand new animated flick, Transformers One, on the way. In this article, we will explore how to watch all the Transformers movies in chronological and release date order.
Transformers Movies in Chronological Order
1. Transformers One (2024)
Transformers One is set to be the latest addition to the Transformers franchise. This movie serves as the origin story of the war between Autobots and Decepticons, detailing how Orion Pax became Optimus Prime. Notably, Chris Hemsworth will lend his voice to Optimus Prime, marking the first time someone other than Peter Cullen will portray the character. With trailers already released, fans are eagerly awaiting its release on September 20, 2024.
2. Bumblebee (2018)
Bumblebee is one of the most beloved characters in the Transformers franchise. This movie explores how Bumblebee lost his voice and met his first human friend, Charlie. Set in 1987, the story begins after Cybertron's destruction, as Optimus Prime sends Bumblebee to Earth to find refuge. Though released in 2018, Bumblebee enhances our understanding of the events leading to the 2007 Transformers film.
3. Transformers: Rise of The Beasts (2023)
Released in 2023, Transformers: Rise of The Beasts continues the narrative established in Bumblebee. However, it presents a significant plot hole, as it shows Optimus Prime and his team already on Earth, contradicting the earlier films. This movie sets up an intriguing crossover between Transformers and GI Joe, suggesting that it serves more as a reboot than a prequel.
4. Transformers (2007)
The original Transformers movie, released in 2007, marked the franchise's first live-action adaptation. It follows Sam Witwicky, who discovers Bumblebee while searching for his first car. As he becomes embroiled in the intergalactic war between Autobots and Decepticons, Sam is thrust into a critical role in saving Earth from Megatron and his forces.
5. Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen (2009)
The sequel, Revenge of The Fallen, builds on the events of the first film. After Sam touches the All Spark, vital information transfers to his brain, prompting the Decepticons to hunt him down. Tragically, Optimus Prime is killed, leading Sam and the remaining Autobots on a quest to resurrect him and prevent the destruction of Earth.
6. Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)
Dark of the Moon introduces a fascinating twist involving the moon landing, revealing that NASA discovered a crashed Autobot ship on the moon. The return of Sentinel Prime, the Autobots' former leader, turns out to be a ruse, as he aims to enslave humanity. Optimus Prime must confront his mentor to protect Earth.
7. Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)
With a new lead character played by Mark Wahlberg, Age of Extinction serves as a soft reboot of the franchise. Set years after the events of Dark of the Moon, all Transformers are deemed enemies. The discovery of a damaged Optimus Prime leads to a conflict with a new threat, including the introduction of Dinobots.
8. Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)
Considered the weakest entry in the series, The Last Knight attempts to rewrite Bumblebee's origin by claiming he assisted Allied forces during World War II. The convoluted plot and numerous elements ultimately led to a disappointing reception, and despite teasing future films, sequels were halted.
Transformers Movies in Release Date Order
If you prefer watching the films in the order they were released, here is the release date order of all Transformers movies:
- Transformers (2007)
- Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen (2009)
- Transformers: Dark Of The Moon (2011)
- Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)
- Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)
- Bumblebee (2018)
- Transformers: Rise of The Beasts (2023)
- Transformers One (2024)
With this complete list of Transformers movies in both chronological and release date order, fans can immerse themselves in the franchise. Be sure to watch these films before heading to theaters for Transformers One, and stay tuned for more updates!
