The Transformers: The Movie Blu-ray Review

The Shout! Factory Blu-ray release of "Transformers: The Movie" comes with significant anticipation due to its claim of utilizing a new 4K transfer. However, while this version certainly advances over its predecessors, issues remain. The widescreen 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer presents a letterboxed 1.85:1 ratio, but struggles with elevated and washed-out black levels, which is particularly problematic for a movie where many sequences occur in outer space. The image quality is also marred by softness and the persistence of dirt, dust, and specks that have troubled the film for years.

Color consistency remains a challenge, most noticeably with the character Hot Rod who appears as a dull pink—an odd departure from his intended red sports car representation. This rendition aligns with the previous Sony BMG DVD but feels out of place nonetheless. The fullscreen transfer on the second disc offers additional vertical picture information but shares the same drawbacks in black levels, colors, and debris presence. Interestingly, the 4:3 version appears marginally crisper than its widescreen counterpart, suggesting a single scan was performed and subsequently matted down for the latter.

When compared to the UK import Blu-ray from 2006, the new Shout! Factory version shows mixed results. Although less washed-out and slightly sharper in some scenes, the Shout! release struggles with consistent color fidelity. Despite these technical drawbacks, all Blu-ray releases significantly outperform their DVD predecessors such as the heavily criticized Sony BMG edition plagued by digital compression issues. While expectations for a flawless restoration might need adjustment, this release still offers a relatively upgraded visual experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Transformers: The Movie" offers listeners two audio options: lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Defaulting to the 2.0 track unless manually changed, both tracks unfortunately retain the film's historically subpar sound mix. Particularly noticeable during action sequences, the soundtrack suffers from significant dynamic range compression, causing the volume to abruptly drop and lifelessly flatten. This issue persists throughout the movie, rendering laser blasts and explosions nearly inaudible, and varying the rock soundtrack’s quality from adequate to decidedly weak.

In terms of fidelity and dynamic range, both tracks fall short, though the 5.1 mix presents a marginal improvement with slightly boosted bass for added depth. Reviewers found the 2.0 mix reminiscent of the original Dolby Stereo theatrical experience, but this does not serve as an advantage here, being described as dull and flat. Further complicating matters, both tracks distribute dialogue across all three front speakers, which can be particularly distracting in the 5.1 mix; unplugging the center channel proves it redundant. Despite these efforts, neither audio option provides satisfactory audio quality, although the 5.1 mix is nominally less unsatisfactory.

For a full audio review, please click here.

Shout! Factory’s Blu-ray release of "The Transformers: The Movie" notably excels in its extensive supplemental content, offering enthusiasts a nostalgic journey with engaging insights into the film’s production and legacy. The standout feature is an Audio Commentary from director Nelson Shin, writer Flint Dille, and voice actress Susan Blu, providing a friendly and detailed look back at the film. The set further includes a comprehensive documentary, 'Til All Are One – Looking Back at Transformers: The Movie, featuring in-depth interviews with key voice actors and musicians involved with the movie. Other highlights include Transformers: The Restoration, detailing the technical work of restoring the film, and several short featurettes like Rolling Out the New Cover and The Death of Optimus Prime. Old DVD bonus materials are also retained, such as The Cast and Characters and vintage TV Spots. The disc lacks exclusive Blu-ray features, but its depth of content makes it a compelling addition for fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director Nelson Shin, writer Flint Dille, and voice actress Susan Blu.
• 'Til All Are One – Looking Back at Transformers: The Movie: Retrospective documentary with interviews.
• Transformers: The Restoration: A look at the film’s restoration process.
• Rolling Out the New Cover: Comic artist Livio Ramondelli on cover art design.
• The Death of Optimus Prime: Featurette on the unexpected impact of Optimus Prime’s death.
• The Cast and Characters: Highlights voice actors and guest stars.
• Transformers Q&A: Participants answer various questions related to the movie.
• Animated Storyboards: Production art synced with movie soundtrack.
• Original Theatrical Trailers: Vintage previews.
• TV Spots: Promotional ads for the movie.

Shout! Factory’s SteelBook release of 'The Transformers: The Movie' conjures intense nostalgia for long-standing fans. Technically titled 'The Transformers: The Movie', this 1986 animated film has endeared itself to a generation despite its initial critical reception and box office difficulties. This Blu-ray continues to capitalize on that emotional connection through a dual-disc offering, including both a widescreen and Full Frame 4:3 video transfer. The theatrical cut remains unchanged, preserving the 'Superman'-style opening credits and the PG-rated profanity that distinguished it from previous, more sanitized home releases.

Narratively and dramatically, the film is flawed, showing a haphazard handling of multiple character deaths—except Optimus Prime's, which is treated with fitting reverence and remains the emotional core of the movie. Despite these plot contrivances, such as the Autobot Matrix of Leadership, the film’s charm resides in its iconic elements: Stan Bush's power anthems like "The Touch", endearingly quirky characters like Kup, and the imaginative yet underdeveloped Junkions. These facets highlight its fast-paced transition from one action-packed sequence to another, forming an indelible part of 1980s pop culture.

The Blu-ray’s presentation is robust. Although the SteelBook’s metal printing diminishes some background details, it compensates with visually striking, glossy artwork that appeals to collectors. Fans who wish for a digital copy won't find disappointment; each set includes a redemption code, although it is not part of the UltraViolet program. Whether or not its futuristic 2005 setting came true, the relentless energy and nostalgic value of 'The Transformers: The Movie' continue to resonate with those who cherished the original television series and toys.

"The Transformers: The Movie" Blu-ray is a nostalgic experience meticulously crafted for fans of the original 1986 animated film. Though the video transfer may not exhibit the painstaking restoration one might expect, it still marks a significant upgrade from previous DVD releases. Purists will appreciate the preservation of the film’s vintage ‘80s aesthetic, while those unfamiliar with the original series might find its charm rooted in its unabashedly cheesy and corny elements—characteristics that define its enduring appeal.

Additionally, the disc includes bonus content worth exploring. While not cutting-edge, these additions provide insight into the film’s production and cater to longtime enthusiasts craving a deeper connection to the material. The soundtrack, while harboring some inherent issues, retains the spirit and energy that amplifies key moments within the movie, making for an altogether enjoyable auditory experience despite its flaws.

The SteelBook packaging enhances collector appeal, featuring a metallic paint cover that effectively highlights the title and central characters, although some might find it overly busy. The back cover’s simplicity contrasts sharply, and while the inner print is aesthetically pleasing, a different color choice for the background could have been more impactful. As a Limited Edition, availability may be scarce, so securing a copy directly from Shout! Factory could be the best approach for dedicated fans.

This is an impressive, but imperfect, SteelBook. The front cover is a little busy but the metallic paint and focus on title and two main characters combine to form a very handsome image. The rear side might be a little too reserved and basic, and the inner print is quite nice, but a purple Decepticon logo might have been preferable (and probably requiring a change from the rose color background). Recommended.