‘The Transformers: The Movie’ Getting Theatrical Re-Release From Fathom (Exclusive)

Published by The Hollywood Reporter on May 18, 2026 10:45 AM

Hasbro is leaning into the movie’s cult status and notoriety for killing off major characters as part of a 40th anniversary “Apology Tour.”

By Borys Kit May 18, 2026 9:45am

When it was first released in 1986, The Transformers: The Movie was a box office bomb. The worse and more lasting fate, however, was the (so-called) trauma thrust upon unsuspecting kid moviegoers thanks to the death of one of the lead characters.

Now Hasbro, the toy company that owns the Transformers brand, and specialty distributor Fathom Entertainment have teamed up to theatrically rerelease the animated movie, which has since developed a cult following. The screening is timed to its 40th anniversary.

Beginning Sept. 17, Transformers: The Movie will roll out in theaters across the U.S. with a wide theatrical release through Sept. 21. The movie will be presented in 4K. Select international markets are expected to launch day-and-date with the U.S.

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Hasbro this year leaned into the movie’s notoriety and nostalgia amongst fans and embarked on an “Apology Tour,” filled with special merch and new toy lines as is it seeks to atone for its sins. That, or just exploit any left-over trauma.

Another legacy of the movie remains its remarkable voice cast. On top of Transformers stalwarts Peter Cullen (Optimus Prime) and Frank Welker (Megatron), the roll call included Orson Welles (Unicron), Judd Nelson (Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime), Leonard Nimoy (Galvatron), Eric Idle (Wrek-Gar) and Robert Stack (Ultra Magnus).

“Even 40 years later, this animated feature film remains a defining moment for fans across generations,” stated Fathom CEO Ray Nutt.

The Transformers The Movie Poster Courtesy of Hasbro