Transformers kicks off with a fast-paced episode that is punctuated with a few action sequences and some character sketches. Even after nearly a quarter century, the show still manages to be a success. But there are some faults. And, certainly, it rarely delves deeper than mere characterizations. But on the whole, More Than Meets The Eye, Part 1 is a worthy and memorable introduction to the world of Transformers.

The episode is primarily focused on establishing the main characters as well as how they came to the planet Earth. To that end, our first introduction is to the planet Cybertron which is shown bearing the scars of years of war. We’re told that this epic war pits the noble Autobots against the evil Decepticons. And right away we have our first hook: the timeless struggle of good vs. evil. Of course, in Transformers, the struggle is a bit oversimplified. But this is, afterall, a kid’s show.

We follow Wheeljack and Bumblebee as they forage for meager energy supplies. And it’s clear that Cybertron is nearly barren. Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, realizes that, if there is to be any hope to save his people and his planet, they must find a source of energy — even if it means leaving Cybertron. And in the character of Optimus Prime, we get another element that helps the show capture the imagination. Prime is a classic leader archetype: wise, powerful, decisive, charismatic. His character goes a long, long way to selling the show and it’s no surprise that he’s a clear fan favorite.

As for the Decepticons, their leader is almost as compelling. Megatron, as a megalomaniac who revels in his exploits of chaos and destruction, is a perfect foil for Optimus Prime. Their personal battles will be a centerpiece of the series. And in the opening scenes, Megatron clearly establishes himself as ruthless, cunning and, without question for kids like me: cool. Not that I looked up to Megatron as an idol but, let’s face it, often times the mark of a good story is just how cool its villain can be — Darth Vader, for example.

We’re also given rudimentary character sketches for some of the supporting cast. These are mostly caricatures, but they’re done so well that it’s possible to accept them — at least for the time being. For the Decepticons there is the calculating Soundwave and the narcissistic Starscream who wants command of the Decepticons so bad that he oftentimes sounds like a spoiled child having histrionics. But his petty jealousy and desire to lead is presented with enough toungue-in-cheek humor that it’s enjoyable, rather than annoying.

On the side of the Autobots, the supporting characters aren’t quite as distinctive as yet. Some of these characters include: Jazz, the loyal second-in-command; Wheeljack, who seems to be a dependable foot soldier (his character develops a specialty later on); and Bumblebee as an undersized Autobot with an oversized determination.

After the two factions engage in a space battle and crash land into a volcano on Earth, four million years pass by. Following a volcanic eruption, the systems on board the Autobot shuttle reactivate and the Decepticons are repaired, using models of 20th century Earth technology. The Autobots would have remained unconscious had it not been for Starscream’s insubordination i test firing his weapons. In an ironic twist, his actions lead to the Autobots also being reactivated. And now the stage has been set for Earth to be the battleground in the continuing war between good and evil, Autobot and Decepticon.

Following a few scenes of exploration, the first battle takes place on an oil derrick. Megatron has led his Decepticons there in order to harvest energy to be converted into energon cubes. The Autobots arrive to foil the Decepticons and, in the battle, the derrick is destroyed, leaving dozens of humans in danger — including Spike, and his father Sparkplug. The episode ends on a cliffhangar.

Overall, More Than Meets The Eye, Part 1 is a success. It establishes a background mythology, introduces characters, and sets up a framework for the rest of the series. The successes include the fantastic sounds of the robots transforming and Soundwaves hyper-cool synthesized voice. And the music, while repetitive, does manage to convey an appropriate energy and drama. Of course, the animation is fairly dated. And there are errors in when characters speak and so forth. But as an opening episode, this one is worth watching.

Topics: Bluestreak, Brawn, Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Hauler, Hound, Huffer, Ironhide, Jazz, Laserbeak, Megatron G1, Mirage, Optimus Prime, Prowl, Ratchet, Ravage, Reflector, Rumble, Shockwave, Sideswipe, Skywarp, Soundwave, Sparkplug, Spike, Starscream, Sunstreaker, Thundercracker, Trailbreaker, Wheeljack
Filed under: G1 Reviews