Black Actors Shine in Transformers One

“Transformers One,” which drops on Friday, September 18th, features an impressive lineup of Black talent. Laurence Fishburne dominates the screen as Alpha Trion, an ancient sage and an original prime.  Keegan-Michael Key takes on the role of B-127, a younger version of Bumblebee, and Brian Tyree Henry brings a powerful presence to Megatron.

The animated film delves into the backstory of how Optimus Prime (Chris Hemsworth) and Megatron transitioned from close friends to bitter adversaries, providing a deeper understanding of their complex relationship. Key’s character, B-127, is a youthful iteration of the beloved Bumblebee, who embarks on a daring mission alongside Elita, voiced by Scarlett Johansson, to protect their planet long before humanity ever existed.

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The highly anticipated untold origin story explores the beginning of the Autobots and Decepticons rivalry, shape-shifting robots from outer space who end up in a tireless fight between good and evil.

Radio/TV personality Jazmyn Summers caught up with Key at the premier for Radio One.

“This movie is animated but don’t be fooled,” he proclaimed. “Adults will love the film.”

Key described his character’s voice as “a higher, younger, excitable version” of himself, allowing him to fully embrace the role while adding depth and authenticity.

Key shared that he doesn’t just stand still in the recording booth; instead, he immerses himself in the character’s movements, mimicking the physicality of fights and dramatic moments. “I pretend to lift heavy weights or throw punches to capture the essence of those actions,” he noted.

B-127’s journey is particularly inspiring. Starting from the lowest rung of the corporate ladder, he faces numerous setbacks yet maintains an unwavering optimism. Key described the character’s resilience: “He doesn’t realize he’s been fired from 50 jobs; he believes, ‘I did so great at this job, they moved me up.’”

Key, Henry, and Fishburne’s contributions to “Transformers One” not only elevate the film but also reflect a broader movement within Hollywood to recognize and celebrate Black talent in major productions. With a production budget of $75 million, the film promises to deliver thrilling action and a heartfelt narrative that will resonate with audiences. Based on prerelease ticket sales, it is already projected to be a blockbuster,

The film also features Steve Buscemi as Starscream, the leader of the Cybertron High Guard and a former Decepticon leader, and Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime, the head of Cybertron.

Article by Jazmyn Summers.  You can subscribe to Jazmyn Summers youtube and follow  her  on Facebook and Instagram.

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