Autobots, roll out! The Transformers: The Movie will return to Singapore cinemas this September to mark its 40th anniversary, giving fans a chance to revisit the 1986 animated classic on the big screen alongside the theatrical world premiere of a new 12 minute animated short, Optimus Prime: Awakening.
Originally released in 1986, The Transformers: The Movie brought the conflict between the Autobots and Decepticons to cinemas on a larger scale, featuring major battles, unexpected consequences, humour and an iconic soundtrack. The film also featured the memorable confrontation between Optimus Prime and his arch rival Megatron.
One of the film’s most significant moments was the defeat of Optimus Prime, a storyline that carried emotional consequences rarely associated with animated films at the time. The scene became one of the most discussed moments in Transformers history and helped establish the film as a defining entry in the franchise.
The Transformers: The Movie has remained popular through home video releases and theatrical revivals over the years. Its combination of action, humour, distinctive tone and music has also helped it retain a strong following among Transformers fans.
The film featured an all-star voice cast, including Peter Cullen as Optimus Prime, Frank Welker as Megatron, Orson Welles as Unicron, Judd Nelson as Hot Rod and Rodimus Prime, Leonard Nimoy as Galvatron, Eric Idle as Wreck Gar and Robert Stack as Ultra Magnus.
The Transformers franchise itself began in 1984 and has since expanded into a global entertainment property spanning films, television series, comic books, toys and digital media.
The anniversary screenings will give audiences who discovered Transformers through its later films, television series or toys an opportunity to experience one of the franchise’s earlier defining stories in cinemas. Longtime fans will also have a new reason to return with the debut of Optimus Prime: Awakening.
Created by Hasbro to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Transformers: The Movie, Optimus Prime: Awakening is a fully realised 12 minute animated short that will make its theatrical world premiere following screenings of the 1986 film.
The short has been created as a tribute to the Transformers community and the late Peter Cullen. It features new performances by Transformers voice acting veterans Frank Welker as Megatron and Soundwave, alongside Peter Cullen in his final original voice performance as Optimus Prime.
Together, The Transformers: The Movie and Optimus Prime: Awakening will give Singapore audiences two Transformers stories in a single theatrical experience, connecting the franchise’s 1986 legacy with a new animated adventure.
The Transformers: The Movie and Optimus Prime: Awakening will screen at selected Shaw Theatres in Singapore from 17 to 20 September 2026.
