Hasbro - Transformers: A Forty-Year Epic Voyage

By Mulder, Paris, Pathe Beaugrenelle, Dolby Room, 14 may 2024

Forty years have passed since the Transformers made their dramatic entry into the world of toys and animated series, capturing the imagination of millions of fans across the globe. In 2024, Hasbro Inc. celebrates this iconic anniversary with a groundbreaking cinematic event entitled Til All Are One: Transformers 40th Anniversary Event. Taking place on May 18 and 19, the event promises to take fans on a nostalgic journey, recreating the magic of the 80s and the epic adventure of the Autobots and Decepticons.

The Transformers universe was born of a collaboration between toy giants Hasbro and Takara Tomy, inspired by the Japanese toy lines Microman and Diaclone. The original animated series, first broadcast in 1984, was produced by Marvel Productions and Sunbow Productions, with the help of Japanese studio Toei Animation. This transpacific alliance gave birth to a timeless saga involving giant robots capable of transforming into vehicles, and a never-ending struggle between good and evil.

The 40th anniversary event is more than just a screening of classic episodes. It's a complete immersion in the Transformers universe, with an exclusive reading of the script for the first episode More Than Meets the Eye, Part 1 by the series' original voices. Peter Cullen, the legendary voice of Optimus Prime, and Frank Welker, the iconic Megatron, will be joined by other original actors to recreate the dialogue and emotions that marked the beginning of this epic adventure. Fans will also have the opportunity to view the following three episodes from the first season, rediscovering the key moments that shaped their passion for this franchise.

The cultural impact of Transformers is undeniable. Since its inception, the series has captivated an intergenerational audience, inspiring films, comic books, video games and a multitude of derivative products. The battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons, led by the charismatic Optimus Prime and Megatron, has transcended screens to become a worldwide phenomenon. Every transformation, every battle, every sacrifice has helped forge the enduring Transformers legacy.

In France, fans will be able to attend this event in a selection of cinemas across the country. Cities such as Paris, Lyon, Toulouse and Nantes will host these special screenings, offering viewers the unique opportunity to relive their childhood on the big screen. Reservations are now open on the Transformers40thCinemaEvent.com website, allowing everyone to secure a place on this nostalgic journey.

The success of Transformers rests largely on the depth and complexity of its characters. The Autobots, with their sense of honor and justice, have always fought to protect the weak. Their humanity, despite their robotic nature, makes them incredibly endearing. The Decepticons, on the other hand, embody a thirst for power and perfidy, led by a ruthless Megatron and his scheming lieutenants like Starscream. These opposing dynamics created a dramatic tension that kept viewers on the edge of their seats for decades.

The original animated series was a pioneer in the animation industry, with carefully scripted episodes and high-quality animation, produced mainly by Toei Animation. The iconic transitions between the Autobots and Decepticons symbols, accompanied by their distinctive chorus, have become an instantly recognizable trademark. Episodes such as Fire in the Sky and War of the Dinobots are remembered for their captivating storytelling and high emotional stakes.

The evolution of the Transformers franchise is also remarkable. After the original series, the live-action films directed by Michael Bay introduced Transformers to a new generation of fans, despite mixed reviews. Nevertheless, the elements of the original series, such as spectacular transformations and epic battles, have continued to captivate audiences. The animated series has also seen several iterations, each bringing its own vision of the Transformers universe, while remaining true to the spirit of the franchise.

The Til All Are One: Transformers 40th Anniversary Event is a celebration of this legacy. It's not just about watching episodes on a cinema screen, but an immersive experience that reconnects fans with the roots of their passion. The original actors, through their performances, rekindle the memories and emotions of the early days of Transformers, reminding everyone why this series had such a profound impact.

In conclusion, this anniversary event is a love letter to Transformers fans. It honors the four decades of adventures, battles and camaraderie that have defined the franchise. For old fans, it's a chance to relive the defining moments of their childhood. For new fans, it's an introduction to the foundations of a legendary saga. Either way, Til All Are One: Transformers 40th Anniversary Event promises to be an unforgettable celebration, a vibrant tribute to a universe that has transcended time and space to become an integral part of our collective culture.

Online reservations are now open at Transformers40thCinemaEvent.com.

Synopsis: 
Millions of years ago, on Cybertron, a planet populated by intelligent robots... Led by Optimus Prime, the Autobots face off against the Decepticons, commanded by Megatron. The confrontation reaches its climax on board the Autobots' ship, which crash-lands on Earth. Millions of years later, on Earth... Autobots and Decepticons are brought back to life by an earthquake. Unfinished, their confrontation resumes...

The Transformers
Created by Hasbro, Takara Tomy
Based on the Transformers by Hasbro & Takara Tomy
Developed by Dick Robbins (seasons 1-2), Bryce Malek (seasons 1-2), Flint Dille (seasons 3-4), Marv Wolfman (seasons 3-4), Steve Gerber (seasons 3-4)
Cinematographers: Kozo Morishita (seasons 1-3), Jae Ho Hong (season 4)
Creative Director: Jay Bacal
Voices Original version by Jack Angel, Michael Bell, Gregg Berger, Susan Blu, Corey Burton, Roger C. Carmel, Michael Chain, Scatman Crothers, Peter Cullen, Paul Eiding, Dick Gautier, Ed Gilbert, Dan Gilvezan, Casey Kasem, Buster Jones, Stan Jones, Chris Latta, Don Messick, Michael McConnohie, John Moschitta, Jr, Alan Oppenheimer, Tony Pope, Hal Rayle, Neil Ross, Ken Sansom, John Stephenson, Frank Welker
Narrated by Victor Caroli
Composers: Johnny Douglas, Robert J. Walsh
Number of seasons: 4 (98 episodes)
Executive producers: Joe Bacal, Margaret Loesch, Tom Griffin, ; Lee Gunther (seasons 3-4)
Supervising producer: Nelson Shin
Producers: Gwen Wetzler (seasons 1-2), John Walker (seasons 1-2), George Singer (seasons 2-4), Gerald Moeller (seasons 3-4), Roger Slifer (season 3)
Production companies: Sunbow Productions, Marvel Productions, Toei Company (seasons 1-2)
Animation studios: Toei Animation (seasons 1-3), AKOM (seasons 3-4)
Broadcast: First-run syndication (USA)
Broadcast: September 17, 1984 - November 11, 1987
Running time: 23-24 minutes

Seen May 15, 2024 at Pathé Beaugrenelle, Dolby Cinéma room