In "Bumblebee" (2018), a standalone "Transformers" prequel, the battle-scarred Autobot scout B-127 (Bumblebee) crash-lands in 1987 California, hiding as a battered Volkswagen Beetle to evade Decepticon pursuers. Traumatized and mute after losing his voice box, he’s discovered by Charlie Watson, a rebellious teen grappling with her father’s death and family strain. Their unlikely bond sparks a heartwarming journey of trust and self-discovery as Charlie restores Bumblebee, uncovering his heroic spark. When Decepticons Shatter and Dropkick track him down, manipulated by human military forces, Bumblebee and Charlie team up to thwart an invasion, blending nostalgic 80s vibes, high-octane battles, and coming-of-age charm. Directed by Travis Knight, this softer reboot trades bombast for emotional depth, delivering a fan-favorite mix of action, humor, and retro heart.

Movie Details

  • Title: Bumblebee
  • Release Date: December 21, 2018 (theatrical worldwide); March 19, 2019 (digital/DVD/Blu-ray)
  • Director: Travis Knight
  • Writer: Christina Hodson
  • Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure
  • Language: English
  • Cast:
    • Hailee Steinfeld as Charlie Watson
    • John Cena as Agent Jack Burns
    • Jorge Lendeborg Jr. as Memo
    • John Ortiz as Dr. Powell
    • Jason Drucker as Otis Watson
    • Pamela Adlon as Sally Watson
    • Voice Cast: Dylan O’Brien (Bumblebee), Angela Bassett (Shatter), Justin Theroux (Dropkick), Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime)
  • Cinematographer: Enrique Chediak
  • Editor: Paul Rubell
  • Music Composer: Dario Marianelli
  • Runtime: 114 minutes
  • Production: Paramount Pictures, Allspark Pictures, Di Bonaventura Pictures
  • Distributor: Paramount Pictures
  • Box Office: $468 million worldwide ($127 million domestic, $341 million international; budget $102-135 million)
  • IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
  • Notable: First "Transformers" film not directed by Michael Bay; set in 1987 with retro soundtrack (The Smiths, Tears for Fears); praised for character focus and practical effects, earning 90% on Rotten Tomatoes; considered a series revitalization after "The Last Knight" IMDb Page Wikipedia Overview Official Trailer on YouTube Rotten Tomatoes Reviews Box Office Mojo Amazon Prime Video Streaming Paramount+ Streaming Roger Ebert Review Letterboxd User Reviews