The once-shelved conflict between the iconic Optimus Prime and Decepticon Transit from the latest blockbuster, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, has seen the light of day in a released deleted scene. The visionary behind the film, Steven Caple Jr., had previously removed the scene after screening viewers expressed their discomfort over its somber tone.
IGN’s recent release of this intense encounter unravels a captivating narrative. In this segment, Autobot leader Optimus Prime, given life by the distinct voice of Peter Cullen, grapples with the Decepticon combatant, Transit, portrayed by John DiMaggio. With the intriguing transformation into one of the most pedestrian vehicles in the Transformers universe, a city bus, Transit presents an unusual, yet compelling visual. Embellished with a promotional poster for Beverly Hills Cop III, fitting the timeline, the narrative takes an intriguing turn at the bus depot, where an intense brawl ensues.
In its early stages to the near-final render, the animation in the battle varies significantly. The original story outline proposed a chilling end, with Prime disposing of Transit’s body into the Hudson River, joining a plethora of defeated Decepticons previously annihilated by the legendary Autobot leader. However, in a candid interaction, Caple Jr. admitted, “The audience felt it was somewhat morose… To an extent, I found it to be in line with the film I had envisioned. However, I gradually realized its intense somberness and subsequently toned it down…”
Despite the ultimate decision to excise the scene, DiMaggio is still credited for his portrayal of Transit in the film’s concluding credits.
Who Exactly is Transit?
Considered a fringe character within the vast Transformers lore, Transit has made a handful of appearances in comic books published by IDW. Echoing his movie counterpart, Transit morphs into a bus. On one occasion, he’s seen transforming into an eccentric British double-decker bus. In the context of the film, he would have been the sole surviving Decepticon, making Transformers: Rise of the Beasts a rarity as it excludes traditional Cybertronian antagonists. The film pivots towards the heroic Autobots and Maximals who square off against Unicron’s formidable minions, the Terrorcons.
Transit’s first appearance on the big screen would have seen the familiar voice of DiMaggio, known for his role as Bender in the upcoming Hulu revival of Futurama. His association with the Transformers franchise isn’t new; his previous work includes lending his voice to characters such as Leadfoot, Crosshairs, and Stratosphere.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts continues its successful run, recently breaching the $400 million mark at the global box office. The much-anticipated home video release is just around the corner. The Optimus/Transit scene is set to be among the host of special features on the film’s digital and DVD/Blu-Ray versions. Bonus content includes behind-the-scenes clips, character featurettes, the ’90s backdrop, and a collection of other excised scenes.
Mark your calendars for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts‘ digital release on July 11 and its subsequent physical media release on October 10.
Conclusion
The revealed scene provides fans a glimpse into the darker, unseen narrative initially conceived for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. The fight between Optimus Prime and the unsung Decepticon Transit is a refreshing contrast to the glamourous battles typical of the Transformers universe. The decision to omit the scene, while controversial, underlines the film-makers’ attentiveness to audience sentiments. As the film continues its triumphant run and heads towards home release, the scene will finally be witnessed by the fans, enriching their cinematic experience. Despite the cut, the portrayal of Transit’s role by DiMaggio attests to the creative possibilities and expansive scope within the Transformers canon.
