The Transformers: The Movie is set to return to cinemas to celebrate its 40th anniversary, accompanied by new footage that promises to delight Transformers enthusiasts.
First hitting theaters in 1986, The Transformers: The Movie quickly became a standout in the Transformers saga, showcasing the epic battles between Autobots and Decepticons in a full-length animated film that has since become a beloved classic among fans.
This September, from the 17th to the 22nd, Hasbro and Fathom Entertainment are re-releasing the film in stunning 4K across global theaters. After the main feature, audiences will be treated to an exclusive premiere of Optimus Prime: Awakening, a new 12-minute animated short that continues the storyline and provides a new adventure for the revered Autobot leader.
Notably, as ScreenRant exclusively reports, Optimus Prime: Awakening includes Peter Cullen’s last original voice performance as Optimus Prime, prior to his passing.
Cullen, who voiced Optimus Prime for over four decades, became synonymous with the character, delivering some of the most memorable lines in Transformers history. His distinctive, authoritative voice perfectly captured the essence of Optimus as a brave and empathetic leader, making this final performance deeply poignant for fans.
Cullen described his involvement in Optimus Prime: Awakening as a heartfelt return to a role he had shaped for over 40 years, revealing a more vulnerable side of Optimus while maintaining his characteristic strength and leadership, as shared with ScreenRant.
The short film is more than just a typical post-credits scene. It is a fully fleshed-out cinematic piece, created as a tribute to both the Transformers community and to Cullen.
Additionally, the project brought Cullen back together with Frank Welker, who reprises his roles as Megatron and Soundwave. Welker expressed his thoughts to ScreenRant about working with Cullen one last time:
“Optimus Prime and Megatron were destined to be adversaries. Their contrasting natures provided the perfect narrative tension. Peter’s portrayal of Optimus was influenced by his personal values—honesty, loyalty, and integrity, making our friendship easy. Reuniting for ‘Optimus Prime: Awakening’ was truly special. While I will miss my friend, his voice and the principles he stood for will forever resonate with Optimus Prime.”
Welker’s reflections add a layer of depth to the short following Cullen’s passing. Hasbro also commemorated Cullen, highlighting his voice as a symbol of courage and kindness for generations and remembering him as a dedicated performer, family man, and friend.
The narrative and visuals of the new short build upon The Transformers: The Movie, offering fans a nostalgic journey through the animated legacy of the franchise while also pointing towards its future.
As the Transformers saga continues to evolve, exploring different aspects of its lore, Transformers One introduced a fresh animated origin story for Optimus and Megatron. Meanwhile, Optimus Prime: Awakening refocuses on the foundational characters and performances that originally defined the series.
With additional screenings now confirmed in countries including France, Singapore, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and Peru, this anniversary event offers a unique opportunity for those who grew up with Cullen’s portrayal of Optimus Prime to hear his voice in the role one last time, ensuring his enduring legacy within the Transformers universe as it moves forward.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
