Transformers Animated Season 1

Amazon.com An engaging and action-packed mix of the original animated TV series and the blockbuster theatrical movie, Transformers Animated: Season One offers nearly all of the revived heroes' new adventures on a two-disc set. As seen in the previous DVD release, Transformers Animated: Transform and Roll Out, this generation of robots in disguise numbers just four--an inexperienced Optimus Prime and three companions--who have gone into hiding on Earth with the AllSpark, the source of energy for both good and evil Transformers. The Decepticons remain their chief enemies, though conflict comes from human sources as well, like mutated evil scientist Meltdown (well voiced by Peter Stormare). But the Transformers have their own allies as well; namely, an eight-year-old girl whose father happens to be a scientist. The good doctor, however, has what could be a trump card for the Decepticons in his possession: the disembodied head of Villain Supreme Megatron. Told in bold and breezy strokes by its writing and animation team, Transformers Animated does a fine job of incorporating much of the classic Transformers mythology into the new storyline while never losing sight of the show's key appeal: slambang fights between giant robots that can change into vehicles. That respect for the source material should please old school fans without leaving newcomers hopelessly lost in the Transformers' complicated backstory, which makes altogether possible the charming notion that fathers and their offspring can both enjoy this series at the same time. Unfortunately, all audiences wishing to catch up with the first season of Transformers Animated will not find the complete series on this double-disc set; the three-part premiere episode is only available on the aforementioned Transform and Roll Out disc. It's an unfortunate move, as is the lack of any substantial extras save for a gallery of Season 2 images. --Paul Gaita