a video about optimus prime.

[@Atomicsaurian]

It was a cartoon made to sell toys, true. But as Optimus himself would say, "You cannot let the spector of your origin dictate how you see your current worth."

[@maxav1-exe]

I read that in Peter Cullens voice, is that bad

[@jamescourt6554]

@@maxav1-exe no its just prime

[@matthewsiracusa8459]

That’s a beautiful line where was it said, was it in the comics? I’m having trouble finding it

[@autobotproductions1244]

It was from TMNT II Splinter said it to Donatello

[@deathlessman01]

i remember a similar quote from pokemon

[@Necrophon]

Coming from an abusive home, Optimus Prime was the best role model I could find.

[@RoadRustle]

I’m really sorry to hear that. I hope the best for you and your future.

[@vaggos2003]

I'm sorry for what you went through in your childhood. I'm glad that you had some sort of positive inspiration to look up to. I hope you are doing far better now. Take care, my friend, and God bless you, your loved ones and the whole world. Amen.

[@brencmrn]

Wow, such a relatable statement, truly a great character

[@jamesc7286]

I came from a safe home and consider him among the best also.

[@concept5631]

I'm sorry you went through that. I hope you are in a better place in your life.

[@snowypuff9702]

"When Optimus stares into the abyss, the abyss is too blinded by his light to stare back. " Words that define the character Optimus Prime.

[@robertomontelongo4932]

You're damn right man Optimus Prime is the best he will always be my favorite hero always

[@aditghifari5039]

He will say amazing line, and linkin park song shows up.

[@brianjordan3841]

This is just 1 of the many reasons y Optimus Prime is more then a mere robot toy or a mere Saturday morning cartoon character

[@robertomontelongo4932]

@@brianjordan3841 Agreed, Optimus Prime is a hero and great example, he's practically another father to us all

[@Apexkun7]

Goes hard ngl

[@mikestion4629]

"When Optimus stares into the abyss, the abyss is too blinded by his light to stare back." GOD *DAMN* is that raw,,,

[@DiamondBolt]

I liked it when he played basketball

[@warknightxl2167]

Yea, that was pretty awesome for Optimus to play basketball.

[@Ato-3000J]

Optimus ballin’ is like finding a little piece of gold

[@waterking74]

G1 Optimus is best robot grandpa

[@brandonfetters3843]

We all did

[@Kamibasos]

Back on Cybertron I used to be a baller

[@somerelativleyuninterestin4763]

I feel like TFP Optimus prime is what the movie Optimus prime should’ve been. He was kind and caring, he had emotions but those aspects had trouble shining through the abundant stoicism he presented himself with, to the point where he seems almost detached, cold and uncaring, and it almost feels like he’s straight up just faking it. It’s a concept I wish TFP had gone into more but tbh I dunno if that’d make it better or worse

[@Cdr2002]

I think more exploration of his emotions could’ve only made the character better

[@ryanschmidt58]

Optimus in the films didn’t have the benefit of being able to slow down and properly show his character. A tv show that spans 3 seasons with an additional movie leaves plenty of room for character development. The prequel comics go further in depth for Bay’s Prime but not by much

[@stevemanart]

"and it almost feels like he’s straight up just faking it" He was. You can see it in his facial acting and body movements. He is flat out faking his stoicism and detached nature, knowing full well that if he let himself show how he felt it would lead the the crumbling of his team.

[@marxist-leninist-protagonist]

@@stevemanart your pfp is so cute

[@kennethsatria6607]

@@stevemanart When the facade breaks you see how much he cares though its kind of the right way to show Optimus wrathful, TFP has it out of like righteous fury when he's emotional and other times its like you know he's putting all he has into that attack like when he charged Starscream's lazer

[@vaggos2003]

"We cannot ignore the danger. We must conquer it." "Just remember that there is a thin line between being a hero and neing a memory." "Our destinies are not yet decided Megatron." "There will come dark ages. Friends will turn to enemies, allies will betray us, but there will never come the day that we abandon this world and its people." "We may not have come to this planet by choice, but it appears that we are here to stay. I am Optimus Prime and I send this message to all those who seek to come to Earth with hostile intentions. We will defend this planet. We will defend its people. We will defend our home." "This isn't about what we deserve. It's about who we are. About what makes you a Decepticon and me an Autobot." "But Optimus, I'm just a soldier. I'm not worthy." "Neither was I. But soon an Autobot must rise from our recks and use the power of the Matrix to light our darkest hour. Until that day, till all are one." "Arise Rodimus Prime." "You can't win Galvatron! Even if you destroy me, my friends will rise to stop you! You'll have to fight the entire universe and you'll never win because you...are...alone!!!" "The Autobots do not inflict harm on others unless all other options have been exhausted." "Out of all the rights a sentient being could have, I choose freedom." "No. I'm just tired of war." "I'm not the same Cybertronian I was before the war and neither are you." "Today I do not stand in front of you as the leader of the Autobots, but as Optimus Prime alone!" "And as Megatron today demonstrated, every sentient being possesses the capacity to change." "Do not grieve. Soon, I shall be one with the Matrix." "After eons of conflict, I finally see the truth of your words Megatron." "And what might that be Optimus?" "This universe, no matter how vast, will never be big enough for you and I to coexist!" "Today, I do not stand in front of you as the leader of the Autobots, but as Optimus Prime alone!" "Maybe. It might be another deception. But my sympathy lies with the Autobots...and you are not one of us." "Hold on to your dreams. The future is built on them." "You know, we could shake hands right now and the war would be over. I don't care what other opportunist might try to take your place, whether it is Soundwave, Shockwave or even Swindle. Between you and me, this war will be over." "I'll bring you a snowball." "You did well." "And most important of them all, do not lament my absense. Because this is not the end. But merely a new beginning. Simply put, another transformation." "Don't worry. You won't get rid of me that easily." "Be strong enough to be gentle." Optimus Prime is my favourite fictional character of all time. My favourite vs matchup is Optimus Prime vs Superman (alongside Akane Yashiro vs Eren Yeager). My dream rap battle is Optimus Prime vs Theodoros Kolokotronis (alongside Optimus Prime vs Obi Wan Kenobi). But why tho; What is truly that special about a red robot that transforms into a truck; Everything. When we are little, we look at characters like Optimus Prime, like Superman, like Izuku Midoriya, and we say "Ooooh, they are soooo cool!". Later in our lives, we look back at them and find them "boring". Even later, when we look back at them again, we look just a little deeper than the surface and see their true values, their true personal conflicts, what they truly stand for. Ever heard the saying "As kids we like the hero, as adults we understand the villain."? Well, you could also say "As kids we like the heroes, as adults we understand them.". I never disliked the concept of the selfless heroic good guy. I believe I can understand when a character of that archetype is bland and boring, but I don't dislike the archetype in and of itself. I am Greek. I was born and grew up in a country that remembers and was shaped by the feats of selfless heroic individuals, just like the aforementioned Theodoros Kolokotronis. Characters like Optimus Prime, Superman, Izuku Midoriya, Captain America represent the values men like Theodoros Kolokotronis fought for. It's ironic, a giant alien fictional shape-shifting robot represents what is the values and good of not only the Greeks, but humans in general; bravery, selflessness, compassion, decency, kindness. This is why I want that Optimus Prime vs Superman vs battle, this is why I want that Optimus Prime vs Theodoros Kolokotronis rap battle, because of the possible interactions we can get from their ideals and worldviews, because of what those people (Theodoros Kolokotronis) and those characters (Optimus Prime, Superman, Izuku Midoriya, Captain America) stand for. For all those reasons I...just...hate the scene on Transformers: Age of Extinction where Optimus Prime recruits the Dinobots. Right from the get-go Optimus Prime threatens the Dinobots to do as he says and then he beats up Grimlock, steps on his neck and threatens to kill him if he doesn't do what he tells him to do. No. Just no. This god-awful scene goes against everything Optimus Prime's character stands for. This scene goes against everything that was established for Bayverse Optimus Prime. This scene...just sucks. And for all the aforementioned reasons I adore Superman's portrayal in Superman and Lois, I adore Izuku Midoriya's character arc after the War Arc, I adore Captain America's characterization in the MCU and I adore a scene in IDW's Transformers: Chaos Theory, where Optimus Prime and Megatron sit...and talk. That scene is my favourite scene in the entire Transforners franchise and one of ny favourite scenes in all of fiction. With every word, Optimus and Megatron respect each other, understand each other, banter each other. Right before they start talking, we get two panels of Optimus standing in front of the door. He is silent. He is tired. Tired of the war, the destruction, the bloodshed. During their talk, Optimus just wants the bloodshed to end. In that one talk, we get to see the relationship between Optimus and Megatron like never before or even afterwards. Two robotic men, with different pasts and different influences, who are fighting for essentially the same goal, are now sitting and talking like the good friends they once were. A tired but optimistic man who sees the future with hope and despite everything he is willing to put an end to the war and find the right way to do so and a brooty man who suffered too much and can't fathom or accept the solution coming any other way other than his. When Optimus offered Megatron a handshake to formally end the war, you can't help but picture the biggest happiest smile possible on his face. During this scene, it feels as if Optimus and Negatron are in a way deconstucting themselves and their ideals. I feel that no amount of words can fully describe how fantastic that scene is, you just have to see it for yourselves. If anyone wants another fantastic retrispective/tribute of Optimus Prime, you can check out Micheal Mercy's review of the original G1 Optimus Prime figure. Markscaper, keep up the fantastic work and thanks for that fantastic video.

[@fortheloveofgodlaugh2981]

KZbin commeng hall of fame

[@torshavnnewell]

I too adore HEROES like Optimus and Superman. They are just and righteous and noble. I share the same sentiments. However, I do not feel the same about Deku. He simply doesn't give me the same feelings despite everything about Superman, Optimus, and all the others basically, technically, and objectively there. It's probably because the writing doesn't sit well with me. I do see that same aspirational justice in Tupac and the rose from the Little Prince though HAHAHAHA. Also Dolly Parton

[@andrewgreeb916]

Heroes and good role models are important, if your dad isn't going to teach you how to man then maybe the guy in the tv can show you. Bit curious about this line. "During this scene, it feels as if Optimus and "NEGATRON" are in a way deconstucting themselves and their ideals."

[@vaggos2003]

​​@@andrewgreeb916oly shit, that was definitely the spelling mistake of all time. I obviously meant "Megatron".

[@zaragachizanparo4948]

"Well, what do you know? A booby trap that catches boobies."

[@SaadGamerTubeHD]

“Freedom is the right of all sentient beings” -Optimus Prime

[@Insightful_Fox]

"If you want to be a hero just remember, be strong enough to to be gentle and compassionate"

[@Good7Bad13]

He was a hero to thousands of kids and continues to be to this day.

[@jakimusPrime_07]

He is and will be my hero

[@TheNameIsFa11]

Ratchet may be a father figure to me, but Optimus is my hero :)

[@scourgeanimations444]

Great leaders aren't ones who aren't essentially picked. They are the ones who are willing to care. One who would rise to occasion. Weather is to kill a death god or asking a friend. "Are you feeling okay?" Wisdom is not bestowed it is experience. Through what mistakes from his flaws. He pushes forward and learns. Solving the hard decisions. Shining a light for others to know they are not alone. Inspiring you to be the best you. Looking forward to the future. He is an OPTIMUS prime. Best Truck Dad.

[@Guruguru-nl8bs]

"Rise to the occasion ? What is this a summit meeting ?" - Megatron (IDW)

[@KRBrickBot]

“We can be heroes in our own lives, every one of us, if we only have the courage to try.” -Optimus Prime, The Last Knight. Had to look it up because I couldn't remember what that quote means for the humans in that movie.

[@RoadRustle]

a lot of the movie optimus speeches and lines end up blurring together for me so i dont blame you

[@Brainflayer]

The newest comic run at the time of writing, Skybound's Transformers Energon series, has an incredible version of Optimus Prime, he's kind, he's gentle, he's compassionate and understanding even at the darkest of times while at the same time he's able to be a badass warrior when push comes to shove.

[@andersart1001]

"Make no mistake, Soundwave. I desire peace, but I'm no fool." says big O catching Soundwave's fist. And then he transforms to make a sick child happy, even though he's in no ggreat shape himself ^-^

[@spinnyboi5659]

Prime is such a cool character. He's not the type of guy to bawl his eyes out whenever he kills someone but he doesn't laugh at so either. He's the middle ground. He loves everyone, but I feel his flaw as a character is the situations he's in and what he's forced to do. Blasting at Deceptions-That isn't who Prime is but the pressure of all of his situations and him wishing to save others, forces him to think on his feet and just stop the Decepticons. That's my Optimus interpretation.

[@thejonbrownshow8470]

1:00 only reason why G1 prime is the GOAT is just because he be ballin'

[@SourRobo8364]

My biggest heroes when growing up: Superman, Spider-Man, Batman, but Optimus Prime was always the greatest of all to me.

[@axesomerta1139]

Optimus Prime is the perfect example of non-toxic masculinity

[@nerdicwarrior]

He's the perfect example of what men should be in general.

[@megalucario4909]

Absolutely.

[@kidicarus2792]

He's like a dad but a really good dad

[@SevenOh7o]

Toxic masculinity isn't real. Forgive me for my ignorance, but what would even be considered "toxic masculinity."

[@2bdaqueen268]

He’s definitely the parent that a lot of kids and adults who have a toxic family wanted

[@4storyboss]

"san francisco's going to be destroyed" ah yes, one of the most inspiring lines

[@gavinromero3698]

To me, Optimus Prime represents the best of humanity despite not being human himself. ♥️

[@glory2cybertron]

yeah this is pretty much the whole point of the character, being the Knight in Shining Armor archetype who follows a higher power (Primus/Matrix of Leadership) for the greater good.

[@bumblebot2458]

See this is what I like about Prime as a character that I feel like most folks don't come to realize. I feel like a line from Peter Cullen represents the character the best, and that's that, when considering the voice for Prime, he followed the mindset of having Prime "be strong enough to be gentle." This perfectly encapsulates the character and the archetype he represents; it's not that he's weak, it's that he's strong and wise enough to be controlled and use his power wisely. I miss characters like that... (Edit) Just started fully watching the video and realized Markscaper actually used that line in the beginning! I'm glad you use it man, it really does encapsulate the character!

[@codaboi138]

TFP Optimus was my Prime. His speeches felt very lofty and applicable to many questions in life. I love his one when comforting Arcee after she made a mistake; "Wisdom is earned, not granted. Sometimes at a cost" or something along those lines. That bit of wisdom has been a big help in my life and its a line I try to keep in my head when taking risks to improve my life.

[@GLORIOUSCHONK]

TFP was the first Transformers media I was exposed to as a kid, aside from a few glances at the G1 series. Man that series means so much, I even bought all the seasons on disk. The story, the characters, everything. Bits of the story, like Smokescreen saving Optimus with the Forge and the conversation Smokescreen has with Bee at the end of the cartoon, REALLY stick with me. And don't forget The Rock voiced Cliffjumper-

[@joslyncarter4813]

I know exactly what you mean.

[@invader8491]

I like to think the character of optimus prime as the kind-hearted, compassionate, and serious leader but with a tiny amount of brutality. He's been fighting eons in war after all and no matter who you are, your tolerance and self control will never stay the same.

[@HenryLouis21]

Yeah well, Optimus having self-control and tolerance is what makes him a good hero. The fact that he withstands so much loss is what makes him strong.

[@invader8491]

@HenryLouis21 Yeah, and I know that some heroes can sometimes lose control, but that is absolutely no excuse to brutality murder Decepticons by ripping off their faces like the movies do. Slight brutality is necessary however, for it's what makes him a bit more realistic

[@lazyvoid7107]

​@@invader8491IDW >>

[@britneyrodas6984]

5:13 i loved that Soundwave got dropkicked and right after punting sidswipe

[@Bio_life.0]

That one dislike, is that Megatron?

[@RoadRustle]

i think so

[@alejandroelluxray5298]

No, even he would respect Prime enough to leave a like, the dislike was Starscream

[@maxav1-exe]

Yea it’s more plausible for Starscream to do it

[@vaggos2003]

Here is my opinion over Optimus Prime in every piece of media you did not mention: -G2: Mixed bag. -Regeneration One: Great. -Animated: Fantastic development from an altrouistic rookie to the Optimus Prime we know and love. -RID 2001: Fun, just like the show itself. -Armada: Awesome. -Energon: Interesting ideas, mixed execution. -Cybertron: Awesome. -Devastation: Good old classic G1 Optimus Prime. -UK Comics: Most good things about Marvel Comics Optimus Prime can be said about him as well, and he is even a little better on some aspects. -Transformers/Ghostbusters crossover: Great. -Transformers/Star Trek crossover: Good. Gets his ass kicked, but still good. -Bayverse comics and games: Defibitely better than the Bayverse movies. -Bumblebee: The Movie: Badass good old G1 Optimus Prime. -Transformers: GO!: There. He is literally just there. -Rescue Bots: I AM...A MOTGERF@#$%& T-REX!!! Yeah, I like him. -IDW2: Good. -Prime Wars Trilogy: Fine. Just fine. -RID 2015: Unnecessary return and out of character on way too many occassions, but he had his moments and qualities. -Basically every other Transformers comicbook ever: Good (sometimes, even great). -Dreamwave Comics: Good. -Alligator Prime, Angry Birds Prime, Kre-O Prime, Q Transformers: Mystery of Convoy: Perfection.

[@beastmaster0934]

10:01 And then he didn’t bring back a snowball for Raf. YOU HAD ONE JOB OPTIMUS!

[@autobotproductions1244]

@@beastmaster0934 in his defense he was near death at the time

[@giorgimamalashvili4220]

Hugging Unicron's creator will light our darkest hour. Man this video was awesome.

[@RoadRustle]

Thanks!

[@showmeyourtuts3670]

My dad left when I was 8 and he wasn't much part in my upbringing. (He wasn't absent, just don't really remember him being the father figure I needed at times. He tried his best tho) I personally think that if it wasn't for my admiration for Optimus I probably wouldn't have became the person I am today. Also, Grimlock is my favorite Autobot second to only Optimus. You won my sub.

[@jtd3960]

We need more videos like this from more creators. Videos that delve into characters like Prime in such a passionate and respectful manner. Fairly critiquing them at their worst, while also realizing what they represent and praising the versions that get those characterizations right.

[@PaperPlaneTF]

You've outdone yourself. Amazing vid, Mark.

[@RoadRustle]

Thanks dude!

[@kittentacticalwarfare1140]

Optimus is what is known in literature as a messianic figure. The versions that don't get it right is because they seem to discard that aspect. Is super hard to write a compassionate individual involved in a ruthless war in a leading role, which G1 achieved and people downplay it AF.

[@parapan8028]

This video really makes me reflect on Optimus Prime's depth as a character, how great of a role model he was.. Stuff I never really noticed about him till now. What a great video Mark!

[@VS-010]

Optimus Prime is the definition of a true hero. Putting others before him Being humble Caring and Strong Amazing Leader Gives Hope There's more but that would take a long day.

[@anggoroanindhito8987]

"Every sentient being had a capacity to chance, even Megatron himself" At the end of Predacon Rising And that quote always sticks with me whenever comforting friend that has been through "tough time" to say the least That with care and support, a certain someone can change others

[@KingofTheGojiras]

7:23 THIS IS WHAT I TELL PEOPLE ALL THE TIME, GRIMLOCK IS MY FAVORITE TRANSFORMER AND NOBODY EXCEPT FOR IDW and the cybertron games wrote this stuff in with him and Grimlock you could also make it even deeper with Grimlock previously being friends with Megatron since they both fought in the gladiator pits.

[@sirglenn7463]

Megatron: Prime! Optimus Prime: One shall stand, one shall fall. Megatron: Why throw away your life so recklessly? Optimus Prime: That's a question you should ask yourself, Megatron. Megatron: No! I'll crush you with my bare hands! Me: I love that scene!

[@KeyanCarlile]

COMPLETELY agree with every word you said. He's a father figure/friend first and a leader second. We see Prime the same way.

[@SprainedSentinel]

The wisdom-filled energy that Optimus Prime usually gives off in most incarnations of the Transformers reminds me of the feeling I had when I watched TMNT 2012 and Splinter was on screen. Both of those characters are just so wise and true in the words they speak, and they both put in the work when it’s needed and genuinely care about their own hand-made families so much. That is the type of person one should strive to be. I have so much respect for both of these characters for what they did in their respective medias, and I especially respect Peter Cullen and even Frank Welker for sticking through with most of the Transformers franchise, genuinely loving the work, and showing care to the fans of what they’ve built. God, it’ll be a sad day when Peter Cullen becomes one with the allspark.

[@BraveBladeProductions]

I feel Optimus works best when he isn't taken too seriously. At the end of the day he should primarily be a role model for young kids, he should be strong, cool and inspiring, but that doesn't mean he always has to be some grizzled war machine.

[@fishpop]

There's a reason G1 Optimus was a surrogate father to an entire generation. "Be Strong Enough To Be Gentle" - Larry Cullen

[@pybr021]

When my teacher asked what role model I had i said proudly "Optimus Prime" and she asked why, I said all the reasons you said in this video

[@PixelaGames2000]

Optimus is a character I can relate to in some aspects (mostly in personality) There’s so much to him that I find relatable that I think I’ll just make my own video about it. But basically I relate to him because of….his compassion, his honesty and loyalty, his reserved nature, his willingness to see the good in everyone and everything, and so much more. He’s my favorite character in transformers because of all these aspects that make him..Optimus Prime

[@NebLleb]

My favourite incarnations are the G1, Animated and High Moon/Prime version of the character. In particular, I love that when the latter was reformatted, he was just "Optimus" at first and had to go on a mission to find Sentinel Zeta to become a Prime.

[@banobobot]

“NO OPTIMUS- AUGH!” That will always get a kick out of me.

[@endersage3514]

Great video! I'm hoping this side of Optimus is shown in rise of the Beasts and future TF movies. It would be really nice for general audiences to really see why Optimus is this amazing leader which is why I still hope they do that solo movie about him.

[@RoadRustle]

Thanks man

[@rickyrackey7930]

@@RoadRustle Plus, we still need that Optimus Prime solo movie with Peter Cullen.

[@Glasses_Kun-n6z]

3:50 POV Micheal Bay : I’m going to make him do war crimes

[@jvbutalid8316]

"Be strong enough to be gentle." IDW had a take on this quote. "The most powerful weapon can fire a warning shot." Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think it was Optimus Prime who said that. Somewhere in IDW G1 comics.

[@__-ie2xx]

3:50 I realised that this piece is taken from the book about transformers. Book was based on G1 transformers which I don't know well... (shame on me, bayverse fan). But I remember how mom brought this book to the home several years ago. I remember how my heart beated when I was reading this page about Optimus. Then I didn't fully understood why he was called "Abraham Lincoln"... But now I understand, and now I love Optimus Prime even more. The next week I will be 18 years old, and I still love transformers. For me they are more than shows/films for kids. I could express my thoughts and emotions more clearly, but your video shocked me so much that it's hard for me to do it. ❤️💙

[@mangle204]

All jokes aside, I want this video played during my funeral, because this is how I want to be remembered when I pass on.

[@lawrencefitzgerald4744]

I love the speech at the end about Optimus. As you were describing what makes him so great, all I could think of was, "has anyone told you about a man named Jesus?". I grew up watching the Transformers in the 80s. Outside of Beast Wars, I didn't really follow any of the other series. I'm not a fan of the Michael Bay movies, but I was still (initially) excited to see a Transformers movie. Optimus Prime always seemed like the robotic version of Superman (in personality, not abilities). Both were created to be role models of what people _should_ be like.

[@stevenflowers857]

People have said if you take away batman's core character or his values, you just have the Punisher in a silly hat. If you do the same for Optimus then you just have Megatron in silly colors. It the very values and core character that make Optimus stand out in a galaxy full of heroes, because a true hero is never measured by the size of his strength, but by the strength of his heart. Optimus is a true hero because despite the difficulty of the decision he makes with it being the right and honorable one he will do it, even at the cost of his own soul because true warriors think not of themselves but of others.

[@KeejTV]

Yeah honestly just every word of this, note it down, get it in the vault, library of congress, Iacon records, good stuff

[@vaggos2003]

I forgot to say my opinion regarding those Optimus Primes: -Shattered Glass: Badass bad guy. -Optimus Maximus: I kinda like him. -WFC Trilogy Nemesis Prime (he is Optimus Prime from the future, so he counts): Badass bad guy and my No.1 Transformers fanfiction coming to life, so I'll always have a soft spot for him. Definitely better than this (looks angrily at TLK Nemesis Prime). -God Ginrai Optimus Prime (not exactly an Optimus Prime, but I'm still including him): He's cool. Markscaper, this video you just made was fantastic and easily one of the best videos you've ever made. You're awesome.

[@ZipZeroYT]

I’ve had a lot of mental struggles during my life, especially recently. I’m not going to lie, there have been times where I’ve thought about giving up, times where I’ve almost lost hope. But in these situations, I ask myself: What would Optimus do? Fight on Find a way, put yourself back together, find hope, Dare to believe you can survive. Optimus is my childhood hero. He wouldn’t give up hope, he wouldn’t stop fighting, so neither will I.

[@EnzomusPrime]

Wonderful video, man. I agree all the way. I myself have noticed this as well... While watching G1 I saw how Optimus was, he was someone you could depend on, a father figure, a leader, a _friend._ This also applies to Cyberverse, which I actualy watched first. Then I compared this version of him to his movie version and well... As much as I love the movies, this Optimus Prime isn't really _Optimus Prime._ It's kinda sad and ironic how Optimus has been now defined to kids as this face-ripping, hollywood blockbuster, _murder guy_ who occassionally says cool lines. ... Exactly what Peter Cullen's brother advised against for Optimus' character. It's kinda sad, but it is what it is. But what's really cool is how so many people, despite how the movies showcase him, still get a sense of what Optimus really is. It's cool that fans like us haven't forgotten what Optimus truly represents. And I'm so happy that video essays like yours exist on the internet. Keep up the awesome work, dude! :DD

[@HexagonThatReallyLikesVinegar]

Optimus in the live-action movies is basically the Doomslayer of Deceptions. No mercy, Big sword, alot of guns.

[@Alina87967]

This video almost made me cry. In a good way. I couldn’t have said it any better.

[@snowblind9551]

6:48 This is actually a good quote. I feel like you're misunderstanding it. Optimus is saying humans deserve the right to choose whether they'll self-destruct for petty reasons (like the Transformers themselves did) or unite and continue to thrive and live. That's always been THE theme of Transformers. A cautionary tale about mutually assured destruction.

[@Lil_Carmine]

G1 showed me that the autobots are all civivillians that prime had to babysit

[@darkshinethakid4463]

The BEST Protagonist Ive EVER seen....

[@mcsmartass8306]

"happy is the man who makes others better, not only when he is in their presence, but even when he is just in their thoughts" - Seneca

[@loonflam8910]

2:26 what I love about this interview is that you can actually hear Peter Cullen's voice starting to slip into Optimus's voice, or rather, his brother's voice.

[@Is-wunny]

This truly is a Video about Optimus Prime

[@Kazuhira2249]

great fighter and an even greater hero he is unmatched when he gives his all in battle but optimus true strenght is his temperance and compassion. also my favorite optimus is the war and fall of cybertron games when bumblebee dies on his arms and he realizes that he can never coexist with megatron and starts beating the shit out of him for real is so fucking cool

[@popcultuurfan03]

It’s more appropriate to call this a great video about Optimus Prime because that’s what it is. You did a great job on this.

[@subtlewhatssubtle]

Optimus is everything right in a leader. Strength without bloodlust. Kindness without smothering. Compassion without condescension. Confidence without arrogance. Responsibility without self-aggrandizement. Respect without expectations. Honesty without harshness. Wisdom without obfuscation. I come from a military family, and everyone I've asked has agreed that, if they'd had an officer like Optimus rather than the ones they actually got, they would have marched to the ends of the Earth for him.

[@mickwoodfield9980]

About the Netflix’s version of Optimus prime you gotta understand this is a younger version of Optimus so he doesn’t have as much experience being a leader and is still trying to figure out who he is, he might as well became a prime yesterday

[@SlippinLaudna]

I liked it when Optimus said Amoung Us

[@RoadRustle]

sus

[@demonking86420]

@@RoadRustle I think you can transform most MP Optimuses into a Sus mode

[@andrewgreeb916]

Aw yes Our favorite bot bro, like how could he not be his name literally means "the best"

[@miwky406]

My biggest issue with more modern depictions of Prime (and hell, protagonists and heros at all) is that they are boiled down to the single characteristic of sacrifice, and the context of the material they appear in defines sacrifice by a willingness to lose the things that are important to you for the sake of someone else.. but that entirely misses the point. The actions of the original depiction of Prime are read (within the source context) not as loss at all, but gaining himself through being what OTHERS would see as willingness to lose everything important to himself-- that's literally the whole point of why these sort of characters, stories, and lessons existed in the first place; seeing sacrifice as losing what matters defeats the true intent behind the action in the first place. See nothing as a loss; but an opportunity to shine through in the only way that matters-- when all the bullshit falls away, and you find yourself fighting an uphill battle, win or lose, what matters is who you are regardless of the outcome.

[@HenryLouis21]

Awesome essay dude, you really dig to the core of what makes Optimus Prime the inspirational hero that we all know and love. I am currently trying to work on my own video Essay about Optimus and how Michael Bay didn't understand Optimus. I also hope that maybe in the future with the Rise Of The Beasts movie that Steven Caple Jr is able to show audiences what makes Optimus Prime the beloved leader and hero we all know and love.

[@Hypercannon77]

Optimus Prime will forever live in my heart

[@joseroman5084]

This was an amazing, well-written, and respectful dedication to the character of Optimus Prime and hope his Core remains intact for future adaptations

[@kyledeppe9511]

Just found your channel. Doing great man

[@megatron2171]

"Amazing a booby trap that actually catches boobies"

[@keldeostudies149]

14:49 ive read that comic and I always imagined some fitting bits of music that plays at primes death like: *his theme from undertale, one of the emotional tracks from the mario galaxy games like Luma or family, one of the emotional themes from pokemon, primes death from the 1986 movie, or optimus theme from the 2007 movie*

[@nabongobong9155]

To me, I think Optimus has that much of an impact as Superman and Captain America in the history of Pop Culture

[@tactlesswordace9711]

Transformers Prime is the best version of Optimus Prime to date

[@SpidermanandhisAmazingFriends]

Optimus Prime is space Martin Luther King Jr, if MLK used a BFG

[@Kramswodahs]

Bayverse Optimus is so misunderstood. He was never meant to BE G1 Prime. He was his own thing. He was a more realistic take on a robot alien forced to take the leadership role in a universe scale war that spanned for millions of years. Unlike G1 Prime who was in stasis for that whole time. He’s portrayed as a battle hardened and weary soldier. And Bayverse Prime DOES have the core traits of Optimus. He IS kind, noble, and wise. He just has the added realism of knowing when to take names and not take shit from anyone. People love to complain about Bayverse Optimus’ flaws, but they never praise his good traits. Let’s not forget he would always place human lives first, even using his own body as a shield at times to block incoming attacks and stuff to protect the humans. And he literally sacrificed himself for Sam and was willing to use his own spark to destroy the Cube so that the war wouldn’t start again on Earth. On a few occasions he tries to talk reason or negotiate as well. The government wanted to get rid of them multiple times when all they wanted was a place to call home. The Autobots saved humanity three times by AoE and how did they repay them? They hunted them all down and used them to build drones out of his friends. Literally walking corpses. He was even told they weren’t “needed” anymore. So yeah, Prime has a right to be pissed and more cynical. And EVEN after all that, he still comes around and decides to protect humanity again. Not to mention in DOTM, Sentinel, his mentor and friend, betrayed them and killed Ironhide and was planning to enslave all of humanity. His execution was justified. Plus, Optimus tried to talk Sentinel out of it and even pleaded with him last second before Sentinel was LITERALLY going to stab him in the back. There’s a lot more reasons why Bayverse Prime is misunderstood but that’s what I could think of off the top of my head. He HAS the core traits. People just see the flaws which may I add, makes him more relatable and human that the cookie cutter perfect role model, almost no flaws type. He may not be for everyone, he may not be YOUR Optimus, but he’s still Optimus through and through. (I agree with a lot of your points though. I’m just tired of seeing the same misunderstood views on Bayverse Prime.)

[@ap6806]

I agree with this completely, and never once has he turned this ruthlessness on his autobots, with Sentinel, he had to, because Sentinel turned on him. TFP Optimus Prime never did what needed to be done, he did not have it in him to take care of Megatron, and I just wonder how many souls Megatron's soul was worth to TFP Optimus Prime, because a lot of his autobots and others paid the price for him not being able to do what needed to be done, and it is funny how so many people don't seem to see that. However, when Bay Optimus actually does do what needs to be done in order to try and prevent as many losses as he can and to protect others from Megatron and the Decepticons, he is treated as though he is doing something wrong. TFP Optimus Prime never learns the lessons he needs to until it has almost cost someone else, such as a the human child Raf, their life, only then will he step up and actually do something. I just do not understand how that can be overlooked so willingly, I mean were his Autobots lives not important to him, why only after the incident with Raf did he get angry, that is just so wrong to me.

[@Kramswodahs]

@@ap6806 People praise TFP Prims so much, but he screws up a lot as well. And Ratchet IS right. It is HIS fault that the war has lasted as long as it did because he couldn't do what needed to be done. It had to be Bumblebee to finally end the war which is while subversive, not exactly what their rivalry was building to. I like TFP as much as the next guy. But in no way is it the pinnacle of TF media. And their Optimus also has issues.

[@Lili-o7-o4e]

He is just Op, but he is just so fucking tired and done...

[@josephflynn9792]

@@Kramswodahs FINALLY I am tired of people hating on Bayverse Prime when he is exactly what Prime should be in his setting.

[@maxharper3737]

The one quote I love from the Movies is Autobot- there a primitive and violent race. Optimus- Were we so different?

[@jvbutalid8316]

As good as the Optimus-Megatron duel in FOC was, I think they missed the opportunity to include some take on that time in G1 when Megatron asked who Optimus was, which Optimus replied to with "Your worst nightmare".

[@evandavid2816]

As a Welsh/British kid growing up in the 80s, I mostly knew of him through the UK Marvel comics rather than the cartoon, and a quote from my favourite Prime-centric UK comic story, 'Crisis of Command', sums him up better than anything else I can think of below:- 'Starscream could never be a leader! He has not the spark of command, the mark of destiny! Optimus has all this - and more! He was trusted with the Creation Matrix because he held life more important than power. "I am not a warrior by choice," he'd said. But he is a leader. He is what necessity asks of him!' Prime video by the way...!!!

[@PinkFox983]

I can’t agree with this video more!!! I feel like so many writers don’t understand the importance of his compassionate side, and we end up with characterizations like in the Bay films. I actually really enjoy how they’re portraying him in Earthspark so far, because it feels like the first time in a VERY long time that they’re not shying away from the softer, gentler aspects of his personality.

[@Solarmass7-7]

She’s an Optimus Dime. She’s Optimus Fine.

[@colbyohno4507]

Love this video. Optimus is in the end just a kind bot trying his best in a bad situation.

[@fluffleduffles5023]

I honestly I like G1 Prime the most out of all the other Primes. Of course I love TFP Prime and Animated but G1 just feels closer to my heart.

[@mitchjones9381]

You always seem to share the same opinion I hold. The only other variation of Optimus I liked that was radically different is the Animated version. He was still Optimus just coming into a role we'd never get a chance to see! Oh, and I saw the movie in theatres, and when he died, my mom cried so hard, and had to walk out of the theatre for a few minutes to compose herself! I still collect the toys, and my mom lets me put them all around her bedroom, and throughout the house, as she loves them to this day. She felt Optimus was a great role model when I was a kid. Thank you for such a great upload!

[@joshuachristian5443]

Ya'll get your own surrogate father. G1 Optimus Prime is mine!

[@oldschooljack3479]

Born in the mid 70's... I had Christopher Reeves as Superman, GI Joe, and Transformers... Truth. Freedom. And fighting for those who can't fight for themselves is kind of a thing for a lot of the kids from my generation. Optimus Prime wasn't too bad of a role model.

[@Collinator225]

TFP Optimus prime is my favorite optimus (personality-wise, even though the Bayverse prime is my favorite design wise) he's caring but also willing to do what needs to be done, at least that's how it seemed to me

[@Maxine_302]

Dude your video essays are getting better and better keep it up

[@blueZLegend]

That last line of yours was great

[@EddieDuan]

7:20 I'm glad somebody else noticed this lol

[@trence5]

I miss the original "John Wayne" Prime before the whole "statesmen" orator. The first few episodes he trash talked Megatron.

[@qrx4057]

That closing line went hard ngl

[@scorpionhh23]

@@qrx4057 agreed

[@Stigcrafter]

I really liked this, one of your best videos yet, great work!

[@pedzad9528]

I'm a huge fan od G1 voice, Peter Cullen just sounds so kind and welcoming in that version

[@NightmareTrash88]

Optimus prime helped me overcome my depression and helped me get through my parents divorce as a kid, true story. what an absolutely inspirational character they made

[@scottb7539]

Optimus Prime is to me. One of the best examples of how to live you life. He has a strong moral code and is someone of good character. I prefer the G1 Optimus Prime the cartoon version. Because characters like him show us what we can be. And you can blame him for my love of Freightliner cab overs. autobots Transform and Roll out.