Murphy: Cullen/Welker For The Movie Is Far From A Done Deal

[Super_Megatron]

From Don Murphy's message board:
I should tell you all that the Cullen/Welker thing is far from a done deal. I spoke to some Dreamworks execs last week long distance and they really think the old voices link our new movie to old things. I disagree. I know you do too. It will be Michael Bay's decision. When I prepare my report to him about this very subject I will let you know. I believe this is the ONLY thing the fanbase is in agreement with.
You can check out the original post by <a href="http://www.d13satellite.com/donmurphy/showthread.php?threadid=8268" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

[Soundwave.ca]

Still cant quit understand why we absolutely NEED to have Cullen and Welker in the movie in the first place. Don’t get me wrong I love them as VA’s and wouldn’t mind at all having them voice Prime and Megs but frankly as long as they get the best people for the job on this flick I really don’t care who does what.

[FreshDebesh]

In a way, it is linked to G1, if not, based off it. It would be a nice salute to the roots of Transformers, but definitely, its not necessary. It would just up the anticipation factor for us fanboys, thats all.

[Ramberk Magnus]

No, its not necessary but in a way, it would feel kind of weird if Prime and Megs had different voices. But eh. Here's hoping they do use Cullen and Welker. Or at least not get someone that totally doesn't fit those characters.

[Cataclizm1]

I'd like to see them do the voices, but I wouldn't be disappointed if Kaye and Chalk did the voices either. They've all given alot to the different series and they deserve to shine in a big budget movie like this.

[IACON]

ah jeez...
first soundwave not a cassette player and Megatron not a gun. Now a question about Cullen and Welker ?!?
I would like to suggest that if these 2 va's aren't in the film then we should get orgenized and have petition to have them in the film or even ban the film entirly, and let the studios know about the ban.

[Crimson87]

I know It's not nessecary, but damn it, I want it.
I would sign any letter to the movie execs and Bay that would tell them so!

[Omnibus Prime]

ah jeez...
first soundwave not a cassette player and Megatron not a gun. Now a question about Cullen and Welker ?!?
I would like to suggest that if these 2 va's aren't in the film then we should get orgenized and have petition to have them in the film or even ban the film entirly, and let the studios know about the ban.

:peoples: :rolleyes: http://www2.propichosting.com/Images/500991/14.gif

[Atomsplitter]

:peoples: :rolleyes: http://www2.propichosting.com/Images/500991/14.gif

I'm trying to think of a way to improve on this, but I can't

Yeah... let's ban the film. :peoples:

[Josh]

In a way, it is linked to G1, if not, based off it. It would be a nice salute to the roots of Transformers, but definitely, its not necessary. It would just up the anticipation factor for us fanboys, thats all.


my thoughts exactly

[Vangelus]

Honestly not surprised, but nice to get a clarification on the actual facts.

And yeah, I do love the two of 'em, but I won't be heartbroken if different actors are chosen. Though, the reasoning for not taking them strikes me as odd. "Old actors = old things"...for one, the younger folks that want to see the movie are -probably- far more attached to the voices of Chalk and Kaye. And, I doubt most people that -would- make the Welker/Cullen=G1 connection would see it as a -bad- thing. But anyway.

Change is good, when it's done well, I always say.

[Valkysas]

if at least cullen isnt in the movie as prime, the movie will be ruined for me. cullen is optimus prime, no two ways about it.

[Spider Striker]

Still cant quit understand why we absolutely NEED to have Cullen and Welker in the movie in the first place. Don’t get me wrong I love them as VA’s and wouldn’t mind at all having them voice Prime and Megs but frankly as long as they get the best people for the job on this flick I really don’t care who does what.

That's exactly what I was going to say.

That, and chuckle at Murphy saying that this is the only thing the fanbase agrees on. It's been one of the most debated topics.

[Enigma2K2]

Love to have them... don't really need them... just make the movie good...

[Gigatron_2005]

I dont want Kaye and Chalk to be Megs and Prime. I liked them in Beast Wars, but I dont think they're a good match for the REAL Prime and Megatron. And I agree with Valkysas, we NEED Cullen in the movie. He IS Prime. Just imagiane starting the trailer out with a speech his voice, and just a dark void. It would invoke the "That sounds familiar." feeling in anyone that watched the old series back in the day. Then show some cool action sequences with the Transformers, and Im sure those old fans would be fixed to go see the movie. And for anyone who is not familiar with the voice, the trailer would act like any other well done trailer. Cullen is THE Prime, and there is no substute.

[Valkysas]

if chalk is prime, I doubt I'd see the movie. he is absolute garbage as optimus prime. I dont know where his talent from BW/BM went, but I definately havent heard it in Armada, Energon, or Cybertron.

[Cruellock]

Doesn't matter to me who does the voices, just as long as they're a professional voice actor. There's no point in hiring a celebrity who can't voice act, they'd just end up doing a terrible job.

[Steevy Maximus]

The fans? Agree on something? What is this dude smokin'? :p

I also don't get the whole "Welker/Cullen MUST be the voices!" thing either. Personally, I still feel that while Cullen works, I don't think Welker's Megatron fits the "big movie" theme. I still feel that if they use a previous Megatron actor, David Kaye has the "charisma" to make Megatron a believable villian.

[Hiro Prime]

Cullin and Welker should be the voices. The studio executives want a proven brand name to be successful and yet it sounds as if they want to screw it up at the same time.

Hasbro or Murphy should sit dow with Bay and explain to him what happened when they killed off OP in the last movie and what they had to go through in order to bring him back.

Not a dis to Chalk or Kaye, but the movie will be stronger with the original VA's.

[Steeljaw]

http://www2.propichosting.com/Images/500991/14.gif


Best smiley EVER!


I just hope Bay is open minded enough to consider this. some people just aren't open to outside suggestions. Regardless if it's a good one or not.

[Greyryder]

As long as the voices fit, and the parts are well acted, it'll be fine.

Chalk would kill the movie for me. If you're not gonna get Cullen, then don't get somebody trying to sound like Cullen. At least Kaye can do a good Megatron, without trying to ape the original.

[Megaman]

if chalk is prime, I doubt I'd see the movie. he is absolute garbage as optimus prime. I dont know where his talent from BW/BM went, but I definately havent heard it in Armada, Energon, or Cybertron.

I'll drink to that!

[unafraid]

Cullen, although good, isn't that great of a voice actor. He doesn't always sound super natural. I could well live without that guy in the movie.

[unafraid]

Btw, outside of us Transfreaks, NOBODY knows who the hell Cullen is. So it wouldn't be a big loss.

[Feralstorm]

Personally, I would really like to see Cullen and Welker reprise their roles for the movie, but I don't need it.

While it's not really a good idea to be completely 'retro' with a film based on an old property (why bother seeing the film then?), I also don't understand the mentality (often found in producers) that says "It's a new movie based on an old property, so EVERYTHING has to be new about it, and any ties to the past other than the name are negative.", as that often defeats the purpose of using a property from the past more than following it too closely.

So basically, DM was saying "We might not use Cullen and Welker, so don't be too put out if we don't." right? Big deal.

[Jux]

Btw, outside of us Transfreaks, NOBODY knows who the hell Cullen is. So it wouldn't be a big loss.

The interesting thing is, Dreamworks apparently doesn't want this linked to old stuff, which, based on your argument, would imply that they don't care what the fans want.

Does anyone else sense a box office tank coming? Everyone's favorite brand is going to labeled as yet another Michael Bay action flop.

[ProfessorSmooth]

I'm just trying to imagine how Peter Cullen must feel right now. "Hmmm, the only recognizable voice work I've done in the past two decades has been Eeyore and the Cartoon Network Trailer Guy. Now, it's possible that I might wind starring up in a 100 million dollar live action summer blockbuster. I sure am glad I took that weird robot show job 22 years ago."

[unafraid]

The interesting thing is, Dreamworks apparently doesn't want this linked to old stuff, which, based on your argument, would imply that they don't care what the fans want.

Does anyone else sense a box office tank coming? Everyone's favorite brand is going to labeled as yet another Michael Bay action flop.

Sorry dude, but I'm a fan and I don't care if Cullen is there or not. Actually, I think it would be better with somebody else with more talent. So it's really not "what the fans want" but more "what some fans want".

[Sledgehammer]

It's getting to the point where I just want this movie done, out, and released, simply because a lot of the brain-frothing that's going on at the mo doesn't so much flog that dead horse as piledrive it straight into the ground.

Next!

[KA]

It's getting to the point where I just want this movie done, out, and released, simply because a lot of the brain-frothing that's going on at the mo doesn't so much flog that dead horse as piledrive it straight into the ground.

Next!

lol

here, here. count me in on the get it over with just so i can get past whiny fanboy bandwagon.

i was into the movie news awhile back, but now im like aw man just get it over with XD

...oh wait. but then we'll have the whiny fanboy arguing for/against the movie XD we're screwed regardless dude.

[Twin Twist]

Cullen FTW.

It would be *so* awesome I could crap my pants right now.

But if not, meh, not so bad. I just appreciate the fact that Don is flying the flag for us.

[Starscream NZ]

The main reason that many want Cullen/Welker is because it's what they grew up with, hearing those voices on their Saturday mornings, however, the kids of today are much more familiar with Chalk/Kaye as Prime/Megatron. In saying that, Chalk/Kaye have been doing Prime/Primal and Megatron for much longer than Cullen/Welker ever did, but they are often discredited because of the recent cartoons dubbing (horrible on both Energon and Armada, significantly better in the later episodes of Cybertron i assure you).


Older fans want what they had

Movie company are probably wanting famous actors to help bring in more viewers, people who'll go see any movie if *insert star here* is in it. That, and as much as this is drawing off of G1, it's not a direct G1 movie, thus Cullen/Welker aren't, and never were 'must haves'. Dreamworks/Michael Bay are more interested whats best for the movie, not the G1 fans. Anyone who thinks it's wise to not see the movie because "it's not Cullen/Welker" or it's "not G1" is kidding themselves, G1 ISN'T THE ONLY TRANSFORMER TOYLINE. Just because you're not happy with the decision doesn't mean you need to bash the movie, and 90% of you will probably end up seeing the movie anyway.


and well, great as Welker was....putting G1 Megatrons voice onto a modern day tank ISN'T going to sound that great, to be honest, nor would Kayes. If Welker was to stay, i'd rather see him use the voice he did for Galvatron, or even Leonard Nimoy take the hold of Megatron, he proved to be a decent VA for Movie Galvatron. And, while i agree that having Cullen for Prime would be nice, i won't be suprised when i hear they're officially NOT part of the movie. A little sad maybe, but it'd be well expected. Cullen has the voice for a memorable Prime, but most likely not one to pull in people who wouldn't usually go see something TF related.

[Roller]

So why is it ultimately Michael Bay's decision? I thought it was ultimately Steven Spielberg's decision, since he is the exec producer.

[Ktulu]

Cullen FTW.

It would be *so* awesome I could crap my pants right now.

But if not, meh, not so bad. I just appreciate the fact that Don is flying the flag for us.

Couldn't have said it better.

Roller...no idea! Big budget movies are hectic and all kinds of crap has to go down, it's really complicated so who the hell knows.


and well, great as Welker was....putting G1 Megatrons voice onto a modern day tank ISN'T going to sound that great, to be honest, nor would Kayes. If Welker was to stay, i'd rather see him use the voice he did for Galvatron, or even Leonard Nimoy take the hold of Megatron, he proved to be a decent VA for Movie Galvatron.

What? Why is Welker's Megatron voice only suitable if the character is turning into a gun? It's one of the greatest villain voices I've ever heard, and probably my absolute favorite of all time. I know it's just your opinion, but the logic seems wobbly to me. No matter what the robot is turning into, that voice is perfectly suited for the character, representing full force the evil, maniacal tyrant he is.

[Shin-Gouki]

I have this nasty feeling that we are going to get a big name Star VA Suckfest

[Ktulu]

Yeah me too Shin :(

[KA]

i hope adam sandler does prime and chris rock does meggy.

[Twin Twist]

Al Pacino is... OPTIMUS PRIME

John Travolta is... MEGATRON!

Only in theatres.

[KA]

joe pesci as starscream.

ha-ha!

[Twin Twist]

"Megatron you're really bustin' my bawls here, k k?"

[KA]

omg lol

jason alexander as bumblebee.

[Backscatter]

IF there's a movie, any Transformers movie, in the near future, I'll go see it. I am after all, a Transformers fan. If I like it, I may see it again and buy the DVD and buy all the Transformers as a result of it. If I hate the movie, I may still do the same thing. I like the good Mr. Cullen, and really hope he's the voice for Optimus Prime. If he's not, I'll still see the film. Good or bad, I want to see a new Transformers the Movie.

[Vector Sigma]

I really want Cullen, but its hardly the end of the world if its not him...

[Kickback]

I'd love Cullen. Welker is a big myeh. Lot more evil sounding guys out there. But Cullen would be hard to replace.

Dreamworks wants the "main roles" to go to big name actors. It's always that way. A George Clooney/Vin Diesel match-up is going to get the movie on "Entertainment Tonight" and "E!" as opposed to Peter Cullen and Frank Welker taking the lead role. However, it would allow them to spend some money to get a big named actor for the human role(s).

[Nevermore]

I'd love Cullen. Welker is a big myeh. Lot more evil sounding guys out there.

From "Master Fwiffo Watches G1 (http://www.transformerslive.com/board/showthread.php?t=2065)":

PRIME sounds scarier then Megatron.

[...]

Evil Cullen > Evil Welker.

[Feralstorm]

Gotta agree on the whole "dead horse" issue this has become, and the desire to get that film finished and out, so we can all move on from "OMG ITS RILLY GONNA SUCK!!" to "DAM THAT SUCKED WORSE THAN SUCK!"

better yet, we get a few instances of "It was pretty OK." peppered in there. :)

[03Mach1]

Cullen and Welker should be Prime and Megs. No question.

[Emperor Megatron]

if chalk is prime, I doubt I'd see the movie. he is absolute garbage as optimus prime. I dont know where his talent from BW/BM went, but I definately havent heard it in Armada, Energon, or Cybertron.
It most likely has to do with the fact that the VA's don't interact with each other in the dubbing process. I think it's obvious that Chalk is much better when he's NOT dubbing a show, but rather interacting with the other VA's in the recording studio. The VA Director probably makes a difference too.

Cullen and Welker are great as Prime and Megs. I think a lot of fans would like them to be in the movie, but if they have to go the route of getting big name actors so be it. Just as long as they're not stiffs and the movie is good.

[Orodruin]

At least there's an effort to get Cullen and Welker. Nice to know our collective bitching and moaning is being heard.

[Shin-Gouki]

knowing our luck we will get George Clooney and Gilbert Gottfried, and to be honest I don't know who would be worse.

[The Madness]

"...Old things..", questions about the relevance of Welker/Cullen...

It's slowly dawning on me that this movie isn't in any way attempting to target a demographic I always assumed was of considerable value.
I guess the G1 references deceived me. This movie is definitely in search of a 'new' Audience, just with enough history to calm the 'Old guard' fans and ‘Opinion Setters’ from being too cynical.
80's kids who packed up their toys a couple of decades ago, are probably going to find the only memories they have of Transformers to be deemed irrelevant or too confusing for this movie.

Clearly I'm not saying the 'Grown up G1' Generation is the only important demographic worth considering, or nothing should change or evolve in TF mythos. I cannot ignore the contributions of subsequent generations, and their importance in the success of this film. But there is a huge market to be tapped out there, full of people who only know the names: "Optimus prime", "Megatron", and "That tape-deck guy", who will never know who Welker and Cullen are, but certainly know what Optimus & Megatron sound like. It seems to me that each minor concession made is something that would further alienate this potential market.

Lets hope the producers fully consider the effects of minor compromises

[Superman_Alpha]

the idea of not wanting to link this movie to "old things" is retarded. They sought out the TF license because it WAS an "old thing" that people already loved. That's why Sony made Spider-man instead of "Bug Guy". That's why Fox did the "X-Men" instead of "Random People in Black". That "old stuff" is what pulls people into theatres. It's what sets the movie apart from the nameless scifi movies that come and go. It's what makes people talk about your movie two years before it's ever in threaters. Distancing your movie from "old stuff" after spending millions for the rights is just bass-ackwards of common sense.

[Junior]

I do see some importance to link this movie to something familiar. If this movie is an idea to link back to the original Transformers, then why not hear a couple of familar voices if you are watching this movie in the US, Canada, and other country where the TV series was not translated into the home country's language.

Lets face it, many of us have different backgrounds with Transformers, including whether we watched the G1 show or not, read the Marvel comics, grew up with a later series, or even just played with the toys. So we are all going to have varying opinions on whether the movie NEEDS to have Cullen & Welker.

I submit, IMO :thumb , that whenever possible Prime, Megatron, and certain other recognizable characters should have characteristics of design, voice, and other elements that help link this movie to old fans (not necessarily the collecting fans) and use many new elements to bring the story of Transformers into today's world. Obviously, I understand we can't have every characteristic for each character. That being said, a few nods to the fans who grew up with G1 (or G2 Cosmc Cube) would be welcomed by many of the people I have spoken with.

[Powerlinx Kupp]

Personally I wouldn't mind Kaye and Chalk at all, personally I think they have given alot more to the names sakes of Optimus and Megatron than the originals.

I personally Like Chalks optimus, and Kaye's Megatron. Likewise I wouldn't mind seeing new voices. What I don't want to see is someone chosen based on putting a big name in on the poster. I would rather a nobody who is perfect than a somebody who sucks at the job.

(or G2 Cosmc Cube)

Oh please no, for the love of Primus and all that is good, I never want to ever ever see that G2 cosmic cube again. I would rather have a fricked episode of the show where the only characters that talk are Warpath and Wheelie than ever be subjected to the G2 cosmic cube again.

"Wheelie and Warpath: A Two Minibot show"

[Dio]

I think the reason Don Murphy thinks the fan community "agrees" on Cullen/Welker is because it's the only item I've seen where one side is rabidly beating the dead horse of "WE MUST HAVE CULLEN/WELKER ZOMG!!!1"(as emoted several posts above), while the other side is more indifferent, with a general feeling of "yeah, it'd be cool, but it's not gonna make or break the movie for us."

At this point I want new voices just to spite the horse-beaters though... you guys need to take a chill pill because it's really annoying. Every thread where we see any tidbit of information about the movie eventually degenerates to a bunch of comments that pretty much amount to individuals DEMANDING that the movie cater to their very specific ideas of how it should be.

Does it surprise you that Murphy, after surfing the various forums, starting up one of his own, and listening to fan requests, has come up with ONE singular item he's considered pulling for on our behalf? And at best, it's 50/50 among us just because no one is rabidly against it.

[Mexi-Con]

I just want to see a REALLY Good Transformers Movie. PERIOD! Cullen/Welker or not. Hell, I want to see some BRAND NEW REALLY GOOD TF shows for a change!

[Nevermore]

And at best, it's 50/50 among us just because no one is rabidly against it.

I can't believe you forgot Bodycount. ;)

[Pimpimus Prime]

I understand them wanting to use big stars for VA's as it will attract non-TF fans. From my understanding though.. this movie will focus some what on the humans and how they intereact with this battle on earth. These roles would be ideal for these big name stars.

[Dio]

I can't believe you forgot Bodycount. ;)

http://bullshido.net/forums/images/smilies/worship1.gif

[Ruination04]

if at least cullen isnt in the movie as prime, the movie will be ruined for me. cullen is optimus prime, no two ways about it.

My thoughts exactly. I don't mind if Megatron has a different voice, as long as it fits, but Prime has got to be Peter Cullen. Even if it's not, I will still love this movie, but I really want THE Optimus Prime.

[Laser_Optimus]

I don't really care one way or another as long as it's someone whom isn't a big name just to get a big name.

That being said, I'd love to get Cullen back as the VA for Prime, but wouldn't be sad if he didn't get the role. Personally, I just hope Chalk doesn't get the role... he was great in BW/BM, but I don't really care for his recent portrayals as Prime in Armada/Energon/Cybertron. He's been alot better in Cybertron to be sure, but I guess he'll always be Primal to me and, as fans are always wining about, they're two completely different characters. I suppose I wouldn't mind seeing the guy whom did Prime in RID either, but I seriously doubt that would happen, because he's done even less VA work than Cullen.

As for Welker, god please no. I just can't take Welker seriously. I wouldn't mind seeing Kaye as he's an awesomely serious villain. Not to mention, he plays Megs with class.

Although, to be honest, I think that we're all kidding ourselves to think that they're actually going to use any of the existing VA's. The studio is going to look for people that will give them some box officer credentials. However, I'm hoping that they focus that for the human characters since we've been told the whole thing will be done from their perspective. Still, even if they focus the big name actors on the human characters I doubt we'll get Cullen, Welker, Kaye or Chalk for the VA's for the robots given this last tidbit of information. They will, more than likely, find some no name's that will do the voices well. Or we'll get a bunch of no name's and the movie will bomb.

But to be honest, I just want to see the movie get finished and get all this harping over with. And, hopfully we'll got the route that Spider-Man, X-Men, Fantastic Four and other movies based on old school characters have. I'd love a franchise of movies, but, let's face it, the only way that's going to happen is if it appeals more to the mainstream than the fanwankers. Fanwankers seem to think they're going to bring the most money to the movie, but, seriously, that will not be the case. The movie needs to appeal to more than the old school G1 lovers and to more than the new school guys whom grew up with BW/BM and the current anime series'. No, what we need is something that's going to pull us into the mainstream, and fankwanking aside we aren't all that mainstream. Making this movie appeal equally to all the fans and people whom haven't even though about TF's in the last 15 to 20 years since the original G1 series stopped airing.

[Shaun_C]

I have this nasty feeling that we are going to get a big name Star VA Suckfest

You mean like the '86 movie was;)

Leonard Nimoy
Robert Stack
Judd Nelson
Orson Welles
Eric Idle

This movie was pretty much an 84 mins commericial with some big time actor's attached to it

IIRC this movie while liked by fans pretty much did suck.And was why GIJOE was simply a direct to video release

if at least cullen isnt in the movie as prime, the movie will be ruined for me. cullen is optimus prime, no two ways about it.

That's the wrong attitude to have honestly

So pretty much you're saying NO MATTER how decent the movie might be.If Cullen's not in it you'll avoid it. So you're pretty much setting yourself up to NOT give this movie a chance :rolleyes:

Glad you're so open-minded

[Crimson87]

SO to sum up these posts so far.....

Cullen and Welker: Must Have. = 7

Cullen and Welker: Want Them, But Can Live Without. = 24

Cullen and Welker: No. = 2

Cullen and Welker: No, and STFU Fanboys Your Opinion Is Worthless. = 2

Interesting distribution..... I'd say Don is right for a change.

[peteynorth]

I don't see what the hesitation is. It's not like hearing their voices is going to dredge up memories of "The Girl Who Loved Powerglide" or other crappy episodes. If anything, it will dredge up the "MTMTE" three-parter, or the movie, or other 'good' aspects of the original series. But realistically, their voices probably won't have a huge impact for either the positive or the negative.

Now, I'm not saying they should just be given the roles outright, but they should certainly be able to audition for them. I honestly think they'd do a good job, but if someone does better, well, may the best men win.

[Steeljaw]

Everyone keeps saying that Big names have to be used becuase no one knows who cullen and welker are. To all the kids who remember the toon, they usually remember 4-5 charactors. Every casual fan I've talked to ALWAYS mentions Optimus, Megatron, Starscream, Soundwave, and sometimes Grimlock.
Now they might not know the names of the voice actors who plyed them, BUT it would make an interesting marketing scheme, to actually promote it that way.

Actually advertise it as the original Megatron and Optimus, let the people viewing the trailer hear those two voices, and I'll bet you the viewers who knew the show will remember.

Nostalgia may not be the most conventional route, but It certainly would be a more unique route then just casting a big name and hoping they can do the job.
Very few actors can actually voice act. In voice acting you're turning yourself into a charactor. Most Celebrities don't do that which is why I hate when big names are cast. The most interesting roles, are usually the minor charactors who are played by actual voice actors.

[IACON]

If they don't cast Cullen/Welker, this is how I think its gonna be:
They cast stars to do the voice overs. The production is HUGE!!! sets everywhere... first units in the U.S, second units filming all over the world, Vfx houses working day and night, the entire cirucs of filmmaking.
Opening day comes and what you get ? another crappy "Thunderbirds" movie. Bay ruined Transformers exactly like Jonathan Frakes ruined the classic tv show "Thunderbirds". What is next ? After less then one month on the big screen, straight to DVD and all of us bitchin all over the place, how bad that movie was. I don't know...
I would like to stand corrected...

[Fairlady_Z]

One of these days I'll write down my complete feelings about this topic, but for now -

Another vote for Cullen/Welker. Those men are responsible for INVENTING those characters in the first place. No matter who comes after them, no one can take away that they repersent the "essance" of these characters and why they became so beloved in the first place. They deserve nothing less than first crack at this movie.

On the subjest of Chalk/Kaye, these men have proven themselves to be worthy successors to a franchise legacy. I would be almost as happy to see them doing the movie. After ten long years these men have made the characters their own.

Whatever happens, we need voice actors for the movie that will embody the spirit of what makes Op and Megs the great characters they are. If that proves to be someone new, so be it. But when you have the actors who created these pop culture icons still at your disposal the people making this movie would be fools not to give them a fighting chance at the parts.

So thanks to Don Murphy for caring enough to give it his best for a fighting change.

One final food for thought - whoever does the voices in the movie, will not necessarily be the same actors who get to voice the new cartoon that will be based on the movie. So we may get Cullen/Welker or Chalk/Kaye invovled in this new TF reboot universe even if they don't make it into the movie.

[Dangard Ace]

This debate reminds me of some articles about why Pixar movies, so far, are all hits, while dreamworks are hit and miss. I wish Dreamworks would learn from this.

"Nemo" writer-director Andrew Stanton, who also worked on "Monsters, Inc." (starring the voice of Billy Crystal), "Toy Story" (Tom Hanks) and "A Bug's Life" (Kevin Spacey), insists it's vocal timbre, not box office cachet, that determines his casting choices. "You would not believe the number of A-list big time box office stars, where we've put their voices against images of characters we were thinking of casting, and it just died. That's when you realize 90 percent of what makes these stars great is what you're seeing, not what you're hearing. And that's fine. They get away with it because it's not radio; you're going to the movies. But in a weird way what we're asking (from the performers) is radio (talent). You over-pronounce, you talk a little louder, you push your emotions and your volume levels a little more than normal, but it's only to make the character come across as normal as it would if you'd seen their faces on camera.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2003/07/20/MO199528.DTL

In which case I would want Cullen as OPs, but find good VA's for the rest.

[Motor_Master]

On the subjest of Chalk/Kaye, these men have proven themselves to be worthy successors to a franchise legacy. I would be almost as happy to see them doing the movie. After ten long years these men have made the characters their own.
That they have, but I don't think its a good idea to have Chalk/Kaye voicing Prime and Megs in the movie. They would create too close of a tie to the current shows and hinder the movies ability to stand fully on its own.

Whatever happens, we need voice actors for the movie that will embody the spirit of what makes Op and Megs the great characters they are. If that proves to be someone new, so be it. But when you have the actors who created these pop culture icons still at your disposal the people making this movie would be fools not to give them a fighting chance at the parts.
Quoted for Truth!
If nothing else I hope all the fan boy (and girl) bitching will, if nothing more, get them the opportunity to try out for the roles.

The vibe I get from this movie is that there is going to be a lot of human main characters in the movie That is where the big name stars really need to be and not necessarily voicing the robots. Having Prime voiced by Cullen is really the only thing I truly want in the movie (but its not the end of my world if it doesn't happen either). To me it adds just enough nostalgia to bring in the current fan base as well as the "hey I remember that voice" crowd. Other than that I just want a good story about giant transforming robots on Earth.

[RandomFerret]

I didn't care about it before, but after reading seven pages of this out of boredom, I am now fanatically in favour of Peter Cullen reprising his role as Optimus Prime.

Welker I could take or leave. His Megatron was never a very distinct voice.

[Denyer]

:peoples: :rolleyes: http://www2.propichosting.com/Images/500991/14.gif

Brilliant icon.

Cullen and Welker are both household familiars, although the number of people who know who Eeyore was played by, for example, isn't necessarily high. I think they'd both bring gravitas to the roles. They're also recognisable by even the most casual older fans, some of whom now have kids of their own they'd like to introduce to something they enjoyed.

Attach stars? Sure, there are going to be humans in this. Get the visibility stars offer, rather than just voice work -- something many of them aren't trained for or lack experience with.

[Autobot Dave]

I'd like it be Cullen and Welker. If they don't do it, and as long as a couple other guys do a good job, then there's no skin off my teeth.

Which I'd prefer.

'Cuz it sorta' hurts.

Have fun, gang!!!

[Switchblade]

I'd still prefer Bruce Willis as Prime.

[Drake]

The interesting thing is, Dreamworks apparently doesn't want this linked to old stuff, which, based on your argument, would imply that they don't care what the fans want.

Does anyone else sense a box office tank coming? Everyone's favorite brand is going to labeled as yet another Michael Bay action flop.

These must be the same Dreamworks execs that have their company in the crapper. I really would like to see a movie done right, but the more and more I hear about the way things are going, I think the franchise might be better off without one. We don't need another dark era like after 1987.

[Beastbot X]

I spoke to some Dreamworks execs last week long distance and they really think the old voices link our new movie to old things.

Yeah, but having a movie based on a toyline and a show from the 1980s most definitely ISN'T... :rolleyes:

As for my own personal opinion, lump me in with the "Gotta have Cullen, more iffy on Welker" folks.

[Josh]

As for my own personal opinion, lump me in with the "Gotta have Cullen, more iffy on Welker" folks.

ditto

Cullen is THE definitive Optimus

accept no substitues >:}

:P


but seriously. I cant think of anyone else i'd rather have playing Prime. And its been brought up already, having Cullen as Prime wouldnt be a "OMG his voice ties the movie to the 84 show, the movie is now bust" like the execs try to make it sound. Its just a fantastic "homage" that would draw in and appease most the "hardcore" fans. The main audience who even see's the movie would probably never be able to tell the difference.

And one thing i dont understand about all you guys. If Murphy is has to pull so hard just to get Cullen/Welker even *considered* for the roles, what makes you think Chalk/Kaye would have a better chance? i doubt they would ever be considered for the roles.

[DESTRO]

To me Transformers is G1. In my mind Cullen made Optimus Prime who he is today. The Voice is done so perfect that everybody who has tried to do Prime since then has fallen way short. Beast Wars was great show dont get me wrong, but the emotion and character depth that Cullen gave Optimus is what made him feel like a true Leader. I dont see any reason to replace a voice that anybody who has watched G1 WILL remember and grab attention.

Its not just a fan wank, he is a Professional Voice Actor. Its not like he has been sitting around for 20+ years doing nothing. Give the guy some credit!

[Darth Megatron]

Wow, is there the slightest chance that there would be thousands of other qualified voice talent out there to fill these roles. To say that you will boycott this movie if Cullen is not OP is ridiculous. Judge it on its own merit, not on your conception of what the movie should be like. It reminds me of all the hype behind Star Wars EP1. It was Ok, but it could have never lived up to all the expectations. Transformers was the same way, If you think that it will the blockbuster of the century, break records and win awards, you will be disappointed!!! My opinion is that unless they can do it right, they should not do it. For example, in the early 90s there was some hype about a Fantastic four movie. It filmed some, but never got off the ground because there was little interest and little money. Then superhero movies came out, money and interest were up and the movie was then made. It this is the same case with this movie then will we end up with a cheap movie that will kill the franchise. Is the general public ready for this kind of movie? If so then make it good, good actors, good writers, etc., if not then drop it. I am perfectly fine going on with the line as it is with the media that is available.

[Shane Anderson]

I appreciate Mr. Murphy keeping us updated.

I really want to hear Cullen and Welker performing the voices. For me, it'll be the difference between really anticipating the movie, and looking forward to it with some disappointment as well.

They need to update the look and ideas, I agree. But for it to be fresh and new and yet still be meaningful to me, the nostalgia buttons need to be pressed as well. The two lead voice actors are the easiest and most effective way to do that.

[Shaun_C]

To say that you will boycott this movie if Cullen is not OP is ridiculous. Judge it on its own merit, not on your conception of what the movie should be like

Quoted for truth

Honestly the fandom's going to ruin the movie BEFORE it's even released

Particularly on DM.net people are hyping up that movie WAY TOO MUCH

Nothing can live up to that kind of hype.

It's like with BotCon '05,people hyped it up too much.Just go to enjoy a decent movie.If you do that then it's money well spent

[NIDARAM12]

For the Clone Wars Cartoon all of the voices are impersonated perfectly. I'm sure that for Transformers they could always take option D, and find other guys who could come pretty darn close to the originals. Personally, I could care less as long as the voices fit the character. I mean, if Prime sounds like Prime and Megatron like Megatron, I dont care who is behind the mic. I'm just hoping they dont say "screw it" and make the voices really out of left field.

Think of it this way, we have been through this exact same situation before with Beast Wars and beyond, no? We already had "someone else" play Prime and Megs and for the most part we love them. :thumbs2: As always, all we can do is hope for the best

[Master Fwiffo]

From "Master Fwiffo Watches G1 (http://www.transformerslive.com/board/showthread.php?t=2065)":

MY FAME IS SPREADING! :D

[03Mach1]

For the Clone Wars Cartoon all of the voices are impersonated perfectly. I'm sure that for Transformers they could always take option D, and find other guys who could come pretty darn close to the originals.

If they want VAs that 'sound' like Cullen and Welker, they'll just get Cullen and Welker. They are way cheaper than big name Hollywood voice talent. No sense spending the money on a big name then ask them to sound like the originals.

[Josh]

If they want VAs that 'sound' like Cullen and Welker, they'll just get Cullen and Welker. They are way cheaper than big name Hollywood voice talent. No sense spending the money on a big name then ask them to sound like the originals.


exactly

the reason why they dont have the original voices in Clone Wars is because the original actors would cost a fortune. The scenario doesnt transfer to this situation as like Mach said, finding the REAL voices would be cheaper than getting some big name replacement

i dont see how dreamworks could lose



Though one thing to remember, while having Cullen would be great, this movie will be a complete re-imagining of the TFs

the only thing the same is the title and the fact that there's alien robots that transform into cars and some names. thats about it. Murphy's already said that if you come in expecting a G1 movie you really got another thing coming, which is where the execs are coming from.

Maybe i do sound double-minded but i stand by what i said about having Cullen would be a great nod to the fans. Just dont expect G1. You'll be let down

[Shaun_C]

Though one thing to remember, while having Cullen would be great, this movie will be a complete re-imagining of the TFs

the only thing the same is the title and the fact that there's alien robots that transform into cars and some names. thats about it. Murphy's already said that if you come in expecting a G1 movie you really got another thing coming, which is where the execs are coming from.

Maybe i do sound double-minded but i stand by what i said about having Cullen would be a great nod to the fans. Just dont expect G1. You'll be let down

No offense but what you say in that post is as you put it"double-sided"

From what I can tell the whole reason some fans want Cullen is because this movie's supposed to be based on G1.Although I simply consider it a revised version myself.

And since as you said "Murphy's already said that if you come in expecting a G1 movie you really got another thing coming" Therefore Cullen really won't make or break the film.It'd be as you said more of a nod then anything else.

And all the G1 nods in existence won't make a difference if this movie is LEGITIMATELY bad;)

[swarlock]

I hope Michael lets them do it. Chalk and Kaye I could do without thank you very much.

[Josh]

No offense but what you say in that post is as you put it"double-sided"

From what I can tell the whole reason some fans want Cullen is because this movie's supposed to be based on G1.Although I simply consider it a revised version myself.

And since as you said "Murphy's already said that if you come in expecting a G1 movie you really got another thing coming" Therefore Cullen really won't make or break the film.It'd be as you said more of a nod then anything else.

And all the G1 nods in existence won't make a difference if this movie is LEGITIMATELY bad;)


no offense taken? :P

like i said, Cullen would be a great nod and i'd love him to play Prime [since his voice is the definitive of an "Optimus Prime. I'd take cullen as Prime over Chalk any day. Chalk will always be Primal]

Just because you'd have Cullen wouldnt make it G1, just like Armada having Chalk doesnt make the character Optimus Primal

the movie wont be G1 but itd be great to have Cullen voice Prime is what i'm saying. so maybe i wasnt quite clear or something


as for everybody already predicting it to be "another of Bay's summer action flops" just wait for the movie to come out to pass judgement. You may not like Bay but give the movie a chance.

I just cant believe how much negativity comes out of the fandom these days :stick:

[NIDARAM12]

Of course, if they DID spend the big bucks and got like Gary Oldman or Andy Serkis to do Megatron and Starscream I wouldn't be complaining :D :dj

[Shaun_C]

as for everybody already predicting it to be "another of Bay's summer action flops" just wait for the movie to come out to pass judgement. You may not like Bay but give the movie a chance.

I just cant believe how much negativity comes out of the fandom these days :stick:

Quoted for truth,particularly the last part

The fandom these days has a very self-defeating attitude.How can you say a movie will be bad when there isn't even a trailer or script yet?

[Josh]

Quoted for truth,particularly the last part

The fandom these days has a very self-defeating attitude.How can you say a movie will be bad when there isn't even a trailer or script yet?


its cuz taht Mickel Baye!! He be teh devil and everything he touches turns to mokey poo!11

:rolleyes:

[Shaun_C]

its cuz taht Mickel Baye!! He be teh devil and everything he touches turns to mokey poo!11

:rolleyes:

:lol :lol

Seriously though,all I know it that IF the trailer interests me. I plan to just enjoy the movie on it's own merits.Not based on how many G1 fanwanks I spot

Although I'll most likely just rent the DVD.I wouldn't be surprised if at the theater some overzealous fanboy/girl starts singing "Transformers..........more then meets the eye"

And I'd LOVE for one of these supposed boycotters to try and stop me.I'd laugh in their face then go in and enjoy myself

[Crobot91]

I'd personally like to hear an older Cullen doing Prime's movie voice. I think twenty years later, his older & gravelly voice would give Prime a wiser and more powerful demeanor. Welker would be cool also.

If not, here are my guesses for an all-star cast:

O.Prime - Adam West (his voice rules! Bill Shatner, my 2nd pick, is too expensive)
Jazz - Gary Coleman ("wacha talkin' about Optimus...")
Prowl - David Hasselhoff ('cause Germans looove...)
Bumblebee - Bart Simpson ("don't have a cow, Prime")
Hot Rod & Arcee - Bennifer II (you need chemistry)
Megatron - Howard Stern
Starcream - Axl Rose
Soundwave - Ben Stern
Laserbeak - Gilbert Godfrey (now I'm just being silly)

[Dalarsco]

Cullen and Welker should be in it, but Welker shouldn't be Megatron. That job should go to Kaye. Welkers Megatron is too screechy for a good villain. It will make him farcical.

[Feralstorm]

My "Way too obvious" sense believes Patrick Stewart will be either Optimus or Megatron (if not both :) )

[llamatron]

Think of it this way, we have been through this exact same situation before with Beast Wars and beyond, no? We already had "someone else" play Prime and Megs and for the most part we love them. :thumbs2: As always, all we can do is hope for the best

Optimus Primal and BW Megatron are completely different characters. And I think most people will agree that the voice acting of Armada - Cybertron hasn't exactly been great.

[Misatokitty]

*sighs* I just hope they cast someone who doesn't make me think of a 20 yr old cartoon. I want something new. Otherwise, why the hell am I paying $15+munchies to go see it? I saw them 20 years ago the first time around.

[Feralstorm]

Optimus Primal and BW Megatron are completely different characters. And I think most people will agree that the voice acting of Armada - Cybertron hasn't exactly been great.

Also, Armada thru Cybertron were dubbed where Beast Wars/Machines were animated to the voice recordings, which allows for a bit more "life" from the voice performers.

And on the movie...

(Chris Griffin) I bet Samuel L. Jackson's in it ... He's in everything! (/Chris Griffin)

[Laser_Optimus]

I'll say the same thing I said last time we talked about a known actor playing Ops and Megs. I don't remember his name, but I'd like to see the guy whom played Morpheus in The Matrix do Ops voice. Megs... I still say I want Kaye, but know that's not likely to happen.

[Dio]

Lawrence Fishburne for Optimus? That's definitely doable... If the star power in this movie includes the big bots and not just the human characters, I'd have to say my pick for Prime would probably be Jonathan Frakes. Not as "Hollywood" as some of the other options, but he has the right pitch and manner of speaking.

[Elvin Pena]

I've said it once and I'll say it again, if Cullen can't reprise his role as Prime I want Avery Brooks (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000984/) to get the gig. He's got a fantastic voice and he can pull it off like no one else can, IMO.

I don't have a clue who I'd want for Megs, though.

[Darth Megatron]

All-star cast doesn't equal good movie. I think about the steaming pile of poop that Batman and Robin was and get angry. Who ever did the casting for that movie should be hunted for sport. Cullen could be the voice for Prime, it wouldn’t be bad, but I won’t go in to a depression if he doesn’t. I really hope that this movie will feature talents of lesser known voice actors for the Bots and semi- known for the humans. My reasons are because I don’t want the big draw of this movie to be the flavour of the month being the star and the movie revolving around his love interest. Most of the budget should be the development of story and production, not the stars.

[Ramberk Magnus]

I've said it once and I'll say it again, if Cullen can't reprise his role as Prime I want Avery Brooks (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000984/) to get the gig. He's got a fantastic voice and he can pull it off like no one else can, IMO.

I don't have a clue who I'd want for Megs, though.

Hot damn! Avery Brooks would be awesome. In fact, just get most of the Star Trek cast to do voices. (I'm only semi-joking.)

Alpha Trion- Patrick Stewart
Optimus Prime- Avery Brooks
Prowl- Jonathon Frakes
Grimlock- Michael Dorn
Perceptor/Wheeljack/Ratchet- Levar Burton or Brent Spiner or Colm Meany
Arcee- Marina Citris
Hot Shot- Richard Dean Anderson

Megatron- Leanord Nemoy
Starscream- John de Lancie
Soundwave- Rene Auberjonois or Robert Picardo
Thundercracker- Anthony "A.T." Montgomery
Cyclonus/Demolisher- Armin Shimmerman
Scourge- Scott Bakula

BONUS VAs and CHARACTERS
Wreck-Gar- William Shatner
Unicron- Patrick Stewart

I used actors from every single series plus Col. Jack O'Neal too! Pretty controversial picks huh? But I think they work in a 'so damn crazy it just might work' kind of way. Of course, these picks would never happen. The cost would be astronomical.

[Draven]

I've said it once and I'll say it again, if Cullen can't reprise his role as Prime I want Avery Brooks (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000984/) to get the gig. He's got a fantastic voice and he can pull it off like no one else can, IMO.
I've been saying that for years, you cheeky monkey you.
I don't have a clue who I'd want for Megs, though.
James Earl Jones, or Doug Bradley (Pinhead in Hellraiser).

[Beastbot X]

And on the movie...

(Chris Griffin) I bet Samuel L. Jackson's in it ... He's in everything! (/Chris Griffin)

In that case, Queen Latifah, Ben Stiller, and David Cross will probably be in it, too...

[Omnibus Prime]

All-star cast doesn't equal good movie. I think about the steaming pile of poop that Batman and Robin was and get angry. Who ever did the casting for that movie should be hunted for sport.

:peoples:

Hell, the casting might have actually been the least of B&R's problems.

[Denyer]

Hmm... I think Avery Brooks would be a bit softly-spoken for Prime, personally... he gets more commanding when he's annoyed, but his normal tone doesn't quite square with my mental image of a really big robot.

Damn good actor, though.

[Greyryder]

If you want to go with Star Trek actors, I think Micheal Dorn would be better for Prime. He's also got voiceacting experience, beyond just a few episodes of Gargoyles.

[Shaun_C]

All-star cast doesn't equal good movie. I think about the steaming pile of poop that Batman and Robin was and get angry.

:rolleyes:

And here I thought B&R was a bad movie because of the movie itself

I've said it once and I'll say it again, if Cullen can't reprise his role as Prime I want Avery Brooks (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000984/) to get the gig. He's got a fantastic voice and he can pull it off like no one else can, IMO.

I don't have a clue who I'd want for Megs, though.

Ah Captain Benjamin Sisko,good choice.And equally good choice IMO would be Keith David.He too has a strong deep voice

For Megs I think Ian McKellen or maybe Kelsey Grammar could pull it off.They both have those deep calculating voices that I feel fits Megatron

[MagnusPrimal]

I understand them wanting to use big stars for VA's as it will attract non-TF fans. From my understanding though.. this movie will focus some what on the humans and how they intereact with this battle on earth. These roles would be ideal for these big name stars.

Does a big-name actor doing animated movie voice-over work really draw people into the theaters? I can't think of a single instance in which I went to see an animated movie simply because big name actor #1 was doing a voice. Am I alone in this?

[Dalarsco]

Brent Spiner should be Starscream. Think of his nasally voice when Data got that alien library in his head and he started acting out thier mythology. ANd Micheal Dorn would make a great Grimlock.

[Greyryder]

No nasally voices for Starscream! I can't take him seriously in Cybertron, because he talks through his nose. He sounds like the voices we always made for characters, when I was a kid. The original Starscream did not talk through his nose. Latta's Screamer was much further back on the pallete, than that. High pitched, does not equal nasally.

I still John Travolta would be a good Starscream. I've seen his take on an inept over reaching lacky. I think it fits Screamer, well.

To answer Magnus Primal's question: No, big name actors doing voices do not draw people in to see movies. Unfortunately, Pixar seems to be the only company that's figured this out.

[Josh]

Does a big-name actor doing animated movie voice-over work really draw people into the theaters? I can't think of a single instance in which I went to see an animated movie simply because big name actor #1 was doing a voice. Am I alone in this?

heck half of the animated movies i've seen lately i never knew who any of the VAs were

id watch the movie then at the end go "OMG! so THATS who the voice was. i knew id heard it before"

like Valiant, Robots, heck even Chronicles of Narnia [I had NO idea Liam Neeson was the voice of Aslan. I knew the voice sounded familiar but i couldnt for the life of me remember the name :P] etc etc

[Spark]

To answer Magnus Primal's question: No, big name actors doing voices do not draw people in to see movies. Unfortunately, Pixar seems to be the only company that's figured this out.

Pixar's figured out... um... what? Hmm... Both Toy Story movies had Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and a ton of bit players. Finding Nemo had Ellen DeGeneres and Albert Brooks. The Incredibles would almost be the exception, but the main voices were still provided by stars (Jason Lee, Craig Nelson, Holly Hunter), albeit TV stars. Hell, it had Sam Jackson as a bit part.

The only difference between Pixar and the others is that they don't tout that they have stars for the voices.

[Ultimate Matt X]

Pixar's figured out... um... what? Hmm... Both Toy Story movies had Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and a ton of bit players. Finding Nemo had Ellen DeGeneres and Albert Brooks. The Incredibles would almost be the exception, but the main voices were still provided by stars (Jason Lee, Craig Nelson, Holly Hunter), albeit TV stars. Hell, it had Sam Jackson as a bit part.

I don't think any of those names aside from Tom Hanks are really drawing people to the movies, at least who they want for Transformers. I think they could bill Frank Welker as Scooby-Doo and it would get more people too watch. :)

I'm not condemning the movie either way, but I think at least Cullen should be there to help get the casual fan that will recognize the voice and get nostalgic for it. I think its more of a benefit for that reason than it is to get the diehards to watch, who will watch either way no matter what they say now.

[Greyryder]

The only difference between Pixar and the others is that they don't tout that they have stars for the voices.

Exactly. I always get the feeling that Pixar chooses it's voice talent based on how well that actor can do the character.

[RandomFerret]

I think Micheal Dorn would make a better Soundwave. Without the vocoder.


Yes, I just said that I wanted Soundwave to not sound like Soundwave. Hang me.