Transformers Animated

Cartoon Network launched their new Transformers Animated show the day after Christmas with an hour and a half premier . The show re-invents the Generation 1 Transformers story and adds the All-Spark from the movie with some big anime style influences.

The first big difference is the animation, which is a very "anime" look. The Transformers have far less straight lines and a far more stylized look. And this look follows them when they transform with a more stylized look than their Generation 1 counterparts. While some fans may dislike the new look, I think it works great and differentiates itself nicely.

The story shares a lot with both the Generation 1 and movie storylines. Unlike the other story lines though, this time Optimus Prime doesn't start out as the leader of the Autobots, but rather the leader of a group of Autobots working to repair space bridges. While working on repairs they come across the All-Spark which has been lost when they are attacked by the Decepticons who were defeated long ago but are now returning. After Megatron attacks the Autobot ship and explosive placed on Megatron sends the ship through a warp where it crashes on Earth.

Fifty years in the future Detroit has been transformed by robots based off of Megatron whose remains were captured by Isaac Sumdac. After one of his companies experiments starts attacking the city the Autobots are woken up by the battle and save the day with the helf of Isaac's daughter Sari. But after his 50 year long search Starscream finally finds the location of the All-Spark and a battle ensues between him and the Autobots for its control.

There is no shortage of action in the show from the beginning of the Decpticon's attack to the batte at the end with Starscream. The action sequences are exciting and feel very big for a cartoon. They also do a great job intermixing the action and story throughout the show.

While staying true to its Generation 1 roots, the show has reinvented the series and gives us a fresh look at the Transformers. Seeing Optimus Prime grow into his role as leader is very interesting choice that should really help to define his character. A lot of other Generation 1 characters make appearances such as Bumblebee, Rachet and Prowl. The eternal struggle between Megatron and Starscream is also nicely woven into the story. On the human side the main characters are Isaac and his daughter Sari. Isaac while on the side of good is grapling with his secret that his company is built of technology from Megatron. It will be interesting to see how his story plays out. Sari befriends Bumblebee and her encounter with the All-Spark leaves her with a key that can revive the Autobots.

I really like the new look and direction of the show and can't wait to see how it moves forward. While the show is definitely aimed at children, there should be something for Tranformers fans of all ages. So if you aren't scared away by the new look, definitely check this one out.

Cool Links:

• Official Site
• TFormers.com Toy Guide