Presented on YTV Nov 11, 2022
The robots in disguise that we all love have gone Terran, and this new series continues from where Generation One ended. Although the events took place many decades ago–the flashback sequences present the original designs–Transformers Earthspark literally evolves the story further. Unlike past sagas set in its own continuity (i.e. universe), this one sees the battle between the Autobots and Deceptions finally over.
But as for the new threat, who we’re dealing with is like M.E.C.H. from Transformers Prime. This was formerly led by Leland (Silas) Bishop. Here, Dr. Meridian wants to merge a man with mecha and his agenda is nothing like Headmasters.
Like every other series, every introduction requires youths discovering these robots. However, for brother and sister Robby Malto (Sydney Mikayla) and Mo (Zion Broadnax), what they discover are creations that may well be Earth’s firstborn techno-biological lifeforms. They did not crash-land on this planet, but rose from its primordial goo that looks suspiciously like a lake of energon. Because they interfaced with it, they too wear a special gauntlet, so they can feel each other’s emotions. Thus, Twitch (Kathreen Khavari) and Thrash (Zeno Robinson) are born, and are probably the same age. They behave like their human counterparts, to which they’ve “bonded” to.
In the debut pair of episodes, the new bots are unlike their kin from planet Cybertron, and have much to learn. While these four are at play, mom Dot Malto (Benni Latham) is trying to keep the peace. There’s more than meets the eye as she attends to her duties as a park ranger in the town of Witwicky. This nod is not the only Easter egg, but I suspect something else from that four season introduction will come into the fore. What’s presented honours the lore, but also evolves the universe. I want to know more about the ooze the kids discovered and if its the blood of Unicron or Primus.
Although we no longer have Peter Cullen and Frank Welker in their respective acts of Optimus Prime and Megatron, I’m sure Alan Tudyk and Rory McCann are doing everything they can to respect the original voice-over talents. Fans will find their feud is truly over. But as for the renegades, refusing to convert is a threat. While half our protagonists are members of the Earth borne G.H.O.S.T., it’s hard to say if the former faction names still count.
Starscream is waiting in the wings. I’m glad Steve Blum is back, but we won’t know how much of a role this number one has until more episodes are available. Until YTV is showing it regularly (I was expecting episode three today, but there’s no listing), I’m enjoying it and will have to sign in for a trial run of the streaming service to get ahead.
Transformers Earthspark is a definite crowd-pleaser for old and new fans alike. It stays true to the formula, deals with family togetherness, and gives us a story arc older fans want–how long can alliances last? Season two is greenlit. However, the bad news is that Paramount Plus has first dibs on showing it.
Transformers Earthspark is Streaming on Paramount+ and Trailer
