Hot Rod / Rodimus Prime Retrospective

[@davidangel64]

Something that doesn't often get mentioned when talking about Rodimus is that the writers seem to have wanted to take a view on the show's characters and roles from a completely different angle, presumably to keep things exciting. Original Autobots Leader: Optimus Prime. Extremely capable. Decisive. Confident. 2nd in Command: Jazz. Lighthearted, fun loving, easy-going. Original Decepticons Leader: Megatron. Cold, calculating, menacing. 2nd in Command: Starscream. Traitorous, fickle, opportunist. Then, when it came time to mix things up, the writers did exactly that: mix things up. Season 3 Autobots Leader: Rodimus Prime. Uncertain of himself. Hesitant. Wracked with anxiety. (Contrasts with Optimus.) 2nd in Command: Ultra Magnus. Stoic. Serious. All work, no play. (Contrasts with Jazz.) Season 3 Decepticons Leader: Galvatron. Insane. Chaotic. Maniacal. (Contrasts with Megatron.) 2nd in Command: Cyclonus. Dutiful and honorable. Loyal. A leader in his own right. (Contrasts with Starscream.) Simply put: the leadership dynamic was written in such a way as to grant new opportunities for the Autobots and Decepticons, in terms of character development. Fun stuff!

[@shady_the_one]

Either way, Galvatron started out as a bloodthirsty, power hungry Megatron on steroids

[@hulkmeister23]

david, I'm gonna try to be as patient as possible and just explain to you that Iron Hide, not Jazz was Prime's 2nd in Command, for both seasons until his death in the movie. How you got Jazz, well we'll leave that unanswered.

[@foldabotZ]

Indeed, but children at the time refused to accept that and change, also. So they hated Rodimus and wanted Optimus back. As fan who grew up in the 2007 movie era, I was less resistant to change. I always liked Hot Rod because he was a Chosen One character-type, like Luke Skywalker(even though Anakin was actually the Chosen One but anyway). He was young, inexperienced, and brash but he was courageous, had a sense of Justice and heroic like any other Autobot. Many hate him because they believe he is the reason Optimus died, but I believe Megatron would've been able to kill Prime anyway without Hot Rod's interference, if the intent was to kill off Optimus for the drama of the movie.

[@hulkmeister23]

@@foldabotZ Actually, as a leader Rodimus wasn't much, either. The guy was bland, dull, unappealing and, to put it bluntly (plz don't get triggered) a bit of a whiney ass. Optimus Prime was inspirational, even after being made leader of the Autobots (War Dawn). Rodimus was none of that; he gave up the matrix TWICE, abandoned his responsibilities, ran from Galvatron more than once, let battles get out of hand and was less than sympathetic when a planet of neutral cybertronians who'd lived in peace for years B4 the decepticons invaded, was blown up on his orders! We might've forgiven him for what happened in the movie, if he'd been portrayed as a better or at least decent leader compared to Prime. Btw, when you say "fan who grew up in the 2007 movie era", I get the picture of someone who really is resistant to change, like hating all things film related because they don't resemble the show, while at the same time are overly critical of G1, but will hold TFA on a pedestal; if that sounds prejudicial, plz note that its not without reason. As a fan who grew up with the series from 84-now, I'm more open to change than you think, so long as that change is a suitable replacement.

[@metalliclark86]

Hot rod was reckless and got Optimus killed. Making him a ''chosen one'' out of the blue was, and still is, a huge kick in the nuts. Speaking of star wars, that felt a lot like The Last Jedi. G1 The Movie itself was awesome: animation, voices, soundtrack, but without Optimus it just wasnt the same.

[@FAITHandLOGIC]

I liked Rodimus Prime. His struggle with confidence as a leader gave his character complexity and authenticity.

[@RodimusPrimal]

My sentiments exactly!

[@DEE_EXX]

Indeed....it also kept an uneasy atmosphere running throughout the show...a leader who is unsure of himself and doesn't want to b leader,makes for tense and dramatic storytelling

[@brunotulliani]

Very true and well said.

[@nawles1]

Nailed it. A humble character that wants the best for those around him.

[@slickchick5811]

To a point...but at some point he had to 'grow up' with experience and confidence. Plus,he only knew OP as a full blown leader, not the early version that probably had doubts too.

[@georgeducady2351]

I’m glad I wasn’t the only one who liked Rodimus Prime...Optimus Prime was the original leader but I relate more to Rodimus Prime...he was always unsure about how to handle things sometimes and living in the shadow of Optimus is not easy to do...Optimus was awesome but Rodimus was more “realistic” to me...great video...

[@MatthewTheWolf2029]

And you're not alone. I too, am a fellow Rodimus fan. And have been for many years.

[@MatthewTheWolf2029]

@@metal_fusion Understandable. But there's more to the Transformers universe than the Bay universe had to offer. I agree though that Rodimus had wasted potential.

[@Mr.Furley412]

More like Rodimus "CRIME"...cuz it was a damn crime what they did to our precious autobots!😬

[@godzillathecreator467]

I remember that movie. When that song comes on " u got the touch" gives me chills

[@hulkdude1169]

Why does it give you chills

[@treysavage4570]

1 of my fav childhood movies

[@taurinmosby4691]

I thought I was the only one that got chills. Iconic song!!!!

[@KingJake-om7yq]

Rodimus is up there with prime for my favorite characters

[@iangilliam2736]

I can hear the soundtrack and tell you what scene was playing.

[@initiatorhater0688]

R.I.P. Dick Gautier, who passed away in January this year, he did the voice of Rodimus Prime in the TV series following the 1986 movie, taking over from Judd Nelson, I wish I had gotten to meet him, but glad that Judd Nelson is still around, but Judd Nelson had very few lines as Rodimus, he mainly spoke as Hot Rod.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Dick Gautier will be missed. Judd Nelson is doing the same with Rodimus and Hot Rod in Titans Return.

[@initiatorhater0688]

i'm sure you know this as well but Dick Gautier was also known as Serpentor on G.I. Joe, the 80's Marvel/Sunbow cartoon, with his death, now all Cobra Leaders are deceased, Chris Latta left us too soon, he was only in his early 40's when he died, who was both Cobra Commander and Starscream. Wish I had gone to TFCon in 2013

[@someone0]

Rip

[@ThornOfSociety]

Loved him in Get Smart

[@shawnhoward7752]

R.I.P Dick Gautier

[@gouryg4774]

Hot Rod / Rodimus Prime is a classic movie / Anime trope where you have a young brash and headstrong character that suddenly has a huge responsibility thrust upon him. Most of the time it is usually during a time of crisis that the character is suddenly thrust into a leadership role that they are really not ready for and have to suddenly reach down into a as of yet untapped inner strength to take on the mantle of leadership. Yes the newly minted leader does tend to make some mistakes at first but thanks to his companions who he looks to for guidance and knowledge helps him evolve into a true leader. As for Hot Rod being responsible for Optimus's death, he saw that Optimus was in danger and rushed to the aid of his commander. Unfortunately he was over matched and Megaton got the upper hand. With Megaton using Hot Rod as a shield Optimus was afraid of hitting him if he fired on Megaton, which gave Megaton the chance to fire first.

[@rodimus7926]

Rodimus Prime is my favorite Autobot of all because he is the most human of all, a Transformers that really shows the burden of leadership, the burden of responsability, and the will to prevail not because of vanity or pride, but for the sake of all the innocents

[@themangledteddy4910]

ABOUT TIME SOMEONE HAS VOICED OUT ON THIS!

[@rodimus7926]

Exactly, and its time you show it to the world, its time you light our darkest hour

[@n1ghtmar3w0lf3]

i agree rodimus was a more relatable character ,he was just a care free guy that got a heck of alot of responsibilities put on him, it makes him interesting

[@mrsvoy]

You hit the nail on he head. I love Rodimus. Love his character development. Rodimus and Optimus are equally talented Leaders of the autobots. I considered G1 transformers the best story line and the origins off all transformers. Everything else is a spin off. I love the Animated movie. Much deeper and better than any and all of Bay's movies.

[@nightmarelyoko]

hot wouldn't have became prime if he wouldn't have jumped in primes battle and got him killed

[@689moose]

"Arise Rodimus Prime!" Hell yeah! Loved it as a kid, and still do as an adult. He is the reluctant leader, and a loyal solider first and foremost.

[@abstractjwl806]

I'm with you, Rodimus Prime rising at the end gave me chills as a lil kid in the theatre. Saw it many times at the $1 theatre we had

[@DJ80s]

Hearing Prime say "Arise Rodimus Prime" just in this video alone gave me chills! It does every time I hear it.

[@Archangelglenn]

I sadly missed the movie's release in theaters as I was only three at the time myself. I got many of the Headmaster toys and Bigger Optimus and such. However when I did see the movie...while I loved the song...I couldn't watch the movie for like ten years afterwards. Even to this day I kind of still feel a bit every time I see the scene. And yes now that I'm older I can appreciate the movie much more now and yeah that scene where he rises at the end.. "Mmm mm good!" Pure solid gold that scene.

[@jpscarano226]

I've always liked Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime. I hated the movie Hot Rod that Michael Bay did.

[@hiro_cuhh5672]

Hhoottt phroodd!!

[@jpscarano226]

XxKevGodxX LOL 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mindislife]

Who the hell hasn't watched the movie from 1986????

[@RodimusPrimal]

MINDisLIFE young Transformers fans. I've met quite a few before and felt like an old story teller.

[@bunnyboyking5215]

MINDisLIFE I haven't & I'm eighteen. I've only seen the first two seasons of the G1 cartoon.

[@lamentis3025]

I've seen it but damn that music is annoying, even for the 80's

[@garganrose]

MINDisLIFE I just bought the movie on Blu-ray and I've been trying to get a friend of mine who hasn't seen it to watch it we can never find the time

[@repentantconservative7030]

@Lucifer Christ It had Weird Al songs. Enough said

[@thesword31]

Hot Rod/Rodimus is an interesting character for me. Being a die-hard fan those first seasons, the deaths in the movie were a shock. But it was exciting. While at first I was one of the people who vehemently hated Hot Rod for what happened, over the course of the next season and couple years of comics, he grew to be one of my favorites. I think it was because he earned this respect in my mind, that he still stands out as a top autobot to me. My appreciation of him grew over time, instead of coming immediately, and I think that says a lot for the character arcs and portrayals of him over the years. He was one of the characters that truly grew from one thing into another, instead of being relatively static.

[@Felix-dh9tl]

Funny thing the first g1 transformers series I watched was the season 3 five faces of darkness. I didn’t understand english because I was just a Finnish kid. And thats why I didn’t understand why Optimus wasn’t around. I actually thought that Rodimus or Ultra Magnus was Optimus… lol

[@R0-83-RT]

I don't blame Hotrod for Optimus's death. I think fans kind of use Hotrod as a scapegoat by blaming him for the death of Optimus Prime. Whether Hotrod Interrupted or not, Megatron would have still reached for the gun and still tried to shoot Optimus Prime. Hot Rod Tried to save Optimus by pushing the gun out of Megatron's hand but Megatron used Hotrod as a body shield making it so Optimus wouldn't shoot Megatron. Sure you can say Hotrod was partially blamable for Optimus's death; Hotrod himself blames himself, but here's the thing if you saw someone trying to kill the person you admired most would you not jump in there and try to prevent it from happening? Hotrod was only trying to save Optimus and it was both due to Optimus' mercy and Megatron's cruelty that Optimus died. Optimus could have run away or shot Megatron but it was because he had a heart that he didn't want to endanger Hotrod. Hotrod's actions were not well thought out but they were selfless.

[@gejamugamlatsoomanam7716]

Bobby Ellis if optimus had just instantly blasted megatron when he had the chance Instead of letting megatron crawl slowly to the gun he would have won easily, I blame optimus being hesistant

[@bagsikdangal]

Gejamugam Latsoomanam This Optimus Prime/Megatron fight happened in the IDW comic Autocracy. And Megatron took Hot Rod in that fight as a hostage. Fortunately for Optimus, Hot Rod was a lot more cunning in that situation. Hot Rod transformed into his alt mode leaving Megatron without a hostage. Optimus Prime blasted Megatron to win that fight😆

[@ausckervonlichtenstein1520]

Bobby Ellis That was to push the story forward. Magnus got blown apart and put back with turtle wax. It's what's convenient. Was never a big rodimus fan but if he saw Megaton about to shoot his mentor he could have shot Megs in the back like he blasted the ship. Makes more sense

[@JPJ1608]

Doesn't Hot Rod have finger guns?

[@optimoosejones9493]

Bobby Ellis your comment deserves to be pinned

[@good7bad13]

Now I'm an Optimus Prime fan boy but I don't hate Rodimus. The matrix chose him. That's fine with me! Do I prefer Optimus? Yes. But Rodimus Prime wasn't a bad leader. Except when he got the hate plague but hey EVERYONE went crazy that story arc.

[@RodimusPrimal]

The Hate Plague had everyone acted completely contrary to how they would normally anyway. Rodimus also TOTALLY got laid in the episode Only Human.

[@good7bad13]

RodimusPrimal the episode Only Human was one of my favorites of that season due to the fact Cobra Commander guest starred. And yeah he definitely got laid.

[@Kaizer617]

@@RodimusPrimal I actually have an idea for a story involving the Hate Plague. It crosses story elements of that episode of the original cartoon & the Unicron episodes in Transformers: Prime.

[@jeffreyweaver9854]

If you had watched the movie, you would have seen Optimus on his back in his final moments revealing the Matrix to the rest of the Autobots, then fumbling the Matrix, which fell to the floor. Hot Rod, seeing the fumble happen, sought to merely be helpful by picking up the Matrix and handing it back to Optimus. By that action, none of the other Autobots realized that his touching the Matrix first had imprinted his attributes into the system ahead of those of Ultra Magnus, who was the leader Optimus wanted to hold the Matrix until such time as it would be needed! Hot Rod thus became Rodimus Prime by accident!

[@SonicXtreme99akaCreeperMario]

But why him?Why not bumblebee?

[@Getwright-]

i honestly did not realize he was a future space truck. i have for 20plus yrs thought he was a camper/rv

[@The1RealOne]

LOOOOOOL no respect lol

[@mastermonarch]

I thought it was strange the Autobots following a Winnebago ?

[@SignOfTheTimes008]

I thought he was some modernized rv to.

[@Richterdgf]

People that call Rodimus a “space truck” are in denial. He’s a freaking Winnebago.

[@thecondiffs]

He is a Winnebago dammit

[@aaroncoffman88]

There is one pass you have to give to Hot Rod and that is his youth. He is clearly the Cybertronian equivalent of a teenager. He made a rash decision with terrible consequences and regretted it. No doubt that guilt weighed on him as Rodimus too. Also he knows he wasn't Optimus Prime's first choice and that made him doubt his belief that he deserved to be Prime. He was basically hamstrung from the get go. The others clearly forgave him for his impetuous actions and he did prove himself. Great video. I loved it

[@mssvattk]

How do you know he wasn't Optimus' first choice?

[@aaroncoffman88]

@@mssvattk Optimus gave the Matrix to Ultra Magnus and named Magnus the leader instead of Hotrod. It was the Matrix itself that chose Hotrod. Proof of that is found when Hotrod briefly touched the Matrix and changed slightly before he gave it Magnus and that Magnus was unable to open it. Later when Hotrod gained full possession of it he was changed into Rodimus

[@mssvattk]

@@aaroncoffman88 interesting, I thought he gave it to UM cause he was the closest.

[@mssvattk]

@@aaroncoffman88 or he was the senior Autobot and knew the Matrix would decide.

[@aaroncoffman88]

@@mssvattk In his original specs Magnus is described as the Autobot City Commander and a natural leader whereas Hotrod is described as being young, rash, and hot-headed. Magnus showed skill and competence while leading the defense of the city. He would have been the natural pick as successor aside from Jazz who is described as Prime's second in command over older Autobots like Kup. Hotrod was technically closer because when Prime died he dropped the Martix and Hotrod was the one to catch it. Prime did choose Magnus but the Matrix chose Hotrod and you can see that when Hotrod catches the Matrix and holds it for a second before passing it Magnus

[@RodimusPrimal]

Today I talk about my favorite Transformer, Rodimus Prime. Many love him, many hate him but the successor of Optimus Prime is the chosen one. He started off has Hot Rod and led the Autobots as Rodimus Prime during the 3rd Season of the original Transformers cartoon. New Theme intro by Tony Bacala: www.tfw2005.com Support me on Patreon: www.patreon.com/rodimusprimal Follow me on Facebook: facebook.com/rodimusprima... Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/rodimusprimal

[@jerryskalberg9896]

RodimusPrimal

[@Gmanunit13vers2]

RodimusPrimal who's Dick Gautier was he an artist, voice actor?...

[@RodimusPrimal]

He was the voice of Rodimus Prime in Season 3. He also played the parts you see on that picture.

[@VAULT-TEC_INC.]

RodimusPrimal Please do "What happened to the Star Saber between Transformers Prime and Robots in Disguise?" In the new RID cartoon, Starscream has rediscovered the Dark Star Saber (which fell to earth after Bumblebee killed Megatron in "Prime"). But for some reason Optimus Prime isn't wielding the original Star Saber relic in the RID show.

[@optimoosejones9493]

xXxxXLuna_ChanxXxxX and me

[@theirrelevantcritic3630]

Hot Rod was good... Until Michael Bay ruined him.

[@MDthornton83]

The Hotrod in Last Knight wasn't really Hotrod at all. Just a random character who only bears a familiar name, but looked, sounded, and acted NOTHING like the Hotrod who fans are familiar with. Why would you make a character and name him after someone who he bears no resemblance to?

[@emperorsupra9014]

HOTKGHOD

[@emperorsupra9014]

MDthornton83 kinda like energon ironhide

[@Fairygirl-q6g]

Kairi Ali Quickly

[@random_gamer_guy82]

Michael Bay is the bane of my childhood

[@atypicalinternetdweller4997]

I feel like Hot Rod was made to relate to actual fans of the Transformers show.

[@rabbitskipper4454]

Man... I remember that commercial I was like 10 years old. That scene when Optimus Prime detaches from his trailer and launches in the air with his holdout gun. Wow...A complete badassery scene.

[@poisonsans2023]

Mhm and it's a Easter egg in the bumblebee movie tv spot

[@codekhalil6437]

On behalf of all of us watching, I just wanted to say...you have gotten REALLY freakin good at these! Keep it up Rodimus

[@RodimusPrimal]

Thanks. It takes a lot of work to do so I'm glad folks enjoy them.

[@suprasport9118]

Definitely like the Character! Personally to me his like the normal guy who thru Destiny became the leader. Is almost like Optimus Prime was that WWII Heroe we came to expect! While Rodimus was the Charlie Sheen Vietnam veteran who always made sure He did the Right Thing! ..Follow in the steps of greatness! As always great video RodimusPrimal!

[@Quirriff]

I like the character of Rodimus Prime, and I think a flaw in modern animated transformers series is that they put too much of a spotlight on Optimus Prime (And Megatron), not allowing other characters to shine. Rodimus Prime was a very different leader for the autobots, but they were also in a very different time. At the beginning of season 3 of g1 the Autobots had basically won the war, and the decepticons had gone from a superpower who controlled most of cybertron to nothing more than dangerous raiders and pirates. He held more responsibilities than Optimus but he likely felt guilt from the role he played in his death in addition to feeling a lack of confidence that he wasn't as good as Optimus. That being said, I doubt Optimus would be able to handle post war cybertron remotely as well as Rodimus, Wartime leaders tend to be poor peacetime leaders.

[@lady1venus]

Perhaps the idea of Rodimus constantly 2nd guessing himself was an element taken from ThunderCats after Lion-O was forced to be an adult though his mind was still that of a child... Lion-O had trouble adapting to being the leader. Out of the 1986 Transformers season, my favorite is Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime.

[@megagene]

I am a big fan of G1 Hot Rod, but I wasn't crazy about how Rodimus Prime was portrayed in season 3 onward. That being said, IDW Rodimus is one of the greatest characters of all time.

[@MDthornton83]

Yeah. I think Rodimus deserved better. Its like the writers weren't even trying.

[@leungzinwang4188]

Yeah rodimus prime deserves the likes from fan

[@Fairygirl-q6g]

MDthornton83 Agreed

[@starsaber9378]

Bayformers hot rod is the best Said no one ever

[@DeanWelsh-q9n]

Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime is my 2nd favourite character next to my 1st favourite Optimus Prime, he was a troubled character but he was learning to become a leader, good thing he had his Autobot friends and Optimus to teach him

[@Orion_Ramirez]

Arise RodimusPrimal

[@koperpac4638]

Leon Prime Octomus Primal

[@vladimirlagos2688]

I really loved the banter and symbiosis between Rodimus and Ultra Magnus at the top of the Autobots in Season 3 of G1. Conversely, I really empathysed with the anguish and concern of Cyclonus at serving the mad impulses of Galvatron.

[@Knightfall-Batman]

Rodimus Prime had much character development. And so what if he questioned his role as the new leader. I'm sure there was a time where Optimus questioned his leadership skills when he was starting out. Every time someone becomes a leader or the new leader of the team they questioned their abilities as the leader. It's a common thing. In fact, I would like to see transformers universe where Rodimus is made from Optimus and Galvatron is made from Megatron

[@DCMarvelMultiverse]

I loved his no bullshit mentality. Like when they were drifting through space in season three. Just sit back and enjoy the ride. LOL.

[@kal0247]

While I've always been a Optimus Prime fanboy😁 i got nothing but live and respect for Rodimus Prime,he earned his place 👏👏👏👍.

[@Superman1260Mack]

Mark Fair I’m with you bro I’m Optimus prime fan run in his prime do you have that please I’ll be one of the greatest leaders of all time in transformer history he’s right next to Optimus

[@zigi5432]

Rodimus is my favorite transformer too! So happy to finally find someone who feels the same way! And you have your own channel! Awesome!

[@MsLizShadow2007]

I love Hot Rod aka Rodimus Prime!

[@NeithDollhouse]

Saw this back in '86 when I was 11, such memories! Michael Bay will never, ever come close to this magic.

[@vagelismel]

We'll,if you are watching this,you are transformers fan if you are a transformers fan... You Have Seen The 1986 Movie.

[@VicEntity]

Maybe new fans haven't seen it.

[@dude7266]

I’m a transformers fan and I still haven’t seen Beast Wars yet

[@dude7266]

I saw and now I can say Beast Wars sucks

[@Hektols]

What makes Rodimus so great is that he is one of the few G1 transformers with actual character development, he didn't start with a static personality like the rest of characters. By the way, Rodimus in the japanese continuity was very successful in his quest to find a new home for the Autobots, founding Planet Micro, later renamed as Zone.

[@random_gamer_guy82]

"Now light our darkest hour" shivers every single time

[@williamhays7356]

He is my all time favorite as well. I looked at Optimus as the father figure I never had and Hot Rod was myself. I had to grow into Rodimus Prime and be better than my own, shitty father was. Hot Rod was chosen by the Matrix and Optimus had to die, one way or another. It was pre-ordained. Can't blame Hot Rod for the decisions made by the fates.

[@TheNerdicViking]

Wild to come across this retrospective over four years later. I loved the GM Bison that inspired the Rodimus alt mode and to see that in the kingdom line along with 86 Hotrod I feel finally do the toy justice. There was something special about his portrait of a wild young man being thrown into a position of responsibility that resonated.

[@cyberspark4206]

He had a lot of self doubt but anytime a situation came up he took charge and was decisive. He may have doubted his decision but he ended up making the right decision

[@Oscarmunozdiaz]

i love Rodimus, its never easy to be the next guy in charge after a genial leader.

[@Darkstorm000]

The thing is, people forget that Optimus was not always so confident in himself either as a Leader in the beginning. But by the time the Audience sees him, he has had 9 million years experience in fighting the Decepticons. Hot Rod, has had 20 years of life at best, and only one or two of them as Rodimus. The time disparity is impossible to compare there.

[@donsmithwrites]

Thanks so much for this!! Rodimus is my Prime!

[@RodimusPrimal]

Thanks.

[@samjones7834]

5:04 "You're doing a wonderful job." *Is currently walking through a wrecked town.*

[@ilikethecokev2]

Magnus: Uh... it was like that when we got here.

[@johnbirkenmaier6641]

I have to say that I agree with you, I too enjoy the character. I always felt that watching Hot Rod become Rodimus Prime, and to see Rodimus Prime struggle to be an effective leader, was what I enjoyed most about him. We never got to see that with Optimus Prime when he became a prime. I even enjoyed when he lost the Matrix and had to fight to get it back. I've always liked the character, and I too would love to see a new series with him in a leadership role!

[@youraverageinternetperson4323]

Rodimus is my favorite Autobot. I like leaders that aren't 100% confident in themselves. Plus, hearing the line "Arise, Rodimus Prime" always gives me chills.

[@sammylane21]

The song "Touch' is unforgettable song,huh??Very motivating too.

[@DarthRudious00]

I remember getting Rodimus Prime for Christmas in 1986. I still have him!!!

[@mikenayers5981]

People always play up Rodimus’ few moments of self doubt to being a constant petulance, which was hardly the case. Rodimus was even told that Optimus was the same exact way when he first got The Matrix. I would’ve also rather that when Optimus returned, he would’ve stayed an advisor to Rodimus, then everyone is happy. I didn’t mind that Optimus died again in Headmasters, so Rodimus could again ascend without having any guilt this time around...then he leaves three episodes later.

[@Davidmoire96]

I really like Hot Rod and Rodimus Prime. I really love the grasp that Simon Furman had of that character. Simon was writing a character that had all the courage, strength and wit to be the next Optimus Prime, but Hot Rod / Rodimus Prime had to struggle with his doubts and his wild, care free nature, making him able to relate to so many readers. In the show, he was fantastic, as i am a huge fan of Dick Gautier (damn was he awesome as Serpentor) who never gets the credit and fanfare he is due. Season Three gave so many good Star Trek Homage stories and the best drawn episode ever done by Sunbow in my humble opinion (Call of the Primitives)

[@MichaelAlexKawa]

I love Rodimus Prime, he is one of my all time favorite Transformers. I never understand why people hate him so much, it make no sense. If they love Optimus as much as they say they do, why can't they see that Optimus cared so much about Hot Rod that he gave his life for him, and that Optimus apparently respected Hot Rod/Rodimus as both a friend and a solider. Anyways, very awesome video about one of the best Autobots ever.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Michael Alex Kawa thanks!

[@MichaelAlexKawa]

welcome :)

[@MDthornton83]

I can relate to what you said here. And I agree.

[@Nothin2seehere-e4z]

Michael Alex Kawa Because he got Optimus killed. However that's the writers and Hasbro fault.

[@KILLAWATTS804]

Hot Rod was my absolute favorite!!! He went head to head against Galvatron like a G!

[@kyledamron]

Always have been a HUGE Hot Rod/Rodimus fan. I always found him alghtly more relatable

[@RodimusPrimal]

He's been my favorite character since I saw the movie in theaters as a kid. As an adult I grew to love him all the more.

[@miaouew]

I loved Hot Rod / Rodimus. Probably my favorite character and definitely my favorite vehicle.

[@DJ80s]

Count me in as a Rodimus fan. I'm in the love group.

[@optimoosejones9493]

DJ80s count me in too

[@Nothin2seehere-e4z]

Me too.

[@mitchfletcher2386]

Me three!

[@marcusisrealious1255]

Arise Rodimus Prime …. Straight goosebumps bro I need to go rewatch that MASTERPIECE asap

[@KardboardKenny]

Prime's hesitation got him killed. not HR's actions.

[@CKN215]

Not so much his hesitation, but his concentration and concern. He didn’t want to hurt HR by firing. As I think about this, I realize Prime had shown to be such a good shot in the series that he had a good chance of shooting Megatron and not harming HR. 😢

[@AxeCrazyAutobot]

@@basedpota Yep Megatron knew exactly what he was doing by keeping Prime talking while he went for his gun.

[@MatthewTheWolf2029]

If anything, I blame the script writers more than I blame Rodimus.

[@toonistiny]

To be honest, yea.

[@EpicYoutubeHandle]

Tf does Human Resources got to do with Prime’s death

[@joshjuntilla]

Hey, I like your retrospective of Rodimus Prime. I also felt the same way about him. I remember watching Transformers as a kid but around my early teen when I was introduced to season 3 onwards so this one has a stronger memory for me. Back then I thought to Rodimus to be unwieldy compare to Optimus. But I never hated him. I actually like the idea of a new leader of the Autobots. Now that I'm older and going back to this cartoon, I started to appreciate more of his character.

[@jasonstinebaugh8447]

I loved both Optimus and Rodimus!

[@somarriba333]

Saw the 1986 movie in theaters. It was great! I don't remember this but my mom says LOTS of kids were crying. I liked Hot Rod too. I never knew people hated him until I grew up and joined forums.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Same here. I didn't remember kids crying either and didn't know about the dislike for him until after everyone spoke on forums.

[@Nothin2seehere-e4z]

Luckily, his fans are slowly, but growing.

[@MatthewTheWolf2029]

As a longtime fan of Transformers, I always loved Optimus and Rodimus equally. But for different reasons. And while I respect Optimus' popularity, praise, and prominence (which is well deserved), I believe Hotrod/Rodimus deserves better than the treatment he gets nowadays. Toxic fans despise him. And even some media has gone out of its way to spite him. But regardless of how many times Rodimus is pushed to the side, ignored, hated on, or made a joke out of, he will always retain a special place in my heart.

[@mrerdeseravee]

The scene where Hot Rod transforms into Rodimus Prime will always give me goosebumps. No matter how short it is

[@Vanviesel]

I've always been a fan of Hot Rod/ Rodimus Prime. Love my childhood❤

[@jeremiahburton4439]

I liked how he was a "flawed" hero. And I liked his brash cockiness as Hot Rod. Optimus was the "John Wayne" of the transformers. So definite, so sure. It was a breath of fresh air so see Rodimus as some with flaws and issues to work through.

[@SC4649]

I used to be in the camp that didn't like Hot Rod/Rodimus - but I rewatched the 1986 Movie recently and I actually really enjoyed Hot Rod as a character. I especially liked his relationship with Daniel but more so with Kup. "Not bad for an old timer" "Old timer? That's something you'll never be if you don't get back to the city" I also kind of felt a lot of sympathy towards him, after his actions borne from a desire to be helpful unintentionally leading to Optimus's death. His asking for forgiveness was really sad, but him calling Optimus when he is dubbed "Rodimus Prime" feels really like a form of redemption and finally feeling forgiven by Optimus - or something like that. I can't really articulate my feelings about this very well. ...anyway, great video! I'm a big fan of your videos - I enjoy your takes on Transformers!

[@kevinlawson477]

Love the movie would love to see a new one one too

[@marialuke2116]

I haven't gotten to really see season 3 or the movie, but I loved how Rodimus Prime acted in the IDW comics. Especially when he told off the cybertronian god(?) of wisdom. That got a chuckle out of me.

[@Element8e4]

I know a lot of people hate rodimus prime. but he is my favourite character too. He was so different to other characters up to that point and I always loved both designs as hotrod and rodimus prime. I never got to own any of his toys as a kid but I had a friend who had a rodimus prime toy and I was always so jealous haha

[@fbomb7184]

@3:12 - 33 years later, I still get chills every time I look into a monitor Prime, and see that seen. So awesome.

[@studiogarrisona]

Optimus Prime was the perfect leader we've always wanted. But his successor, Rodimus Prime, is not a perfect leader. Sometimes he makes mistakes and suffers. Isn't that a more common human figure?

[@christophercameron2141]

Optimus sounds perfect, but the Autobots died under his command and flat out lost Cybertron and the Cybertronian war? The Matrix chose Rodimus! Not Optimus prime? Rodimus got more done and had more battle fronts than Optimus facts no favoritism here.

[@skuffy4930]

This retrospective seriously needs updated.

[@magnoliaeclair7822]

No great leader are born in a day. Remember even Optimus and Megatron have a "younger" days behind them.

[@RandallHallKaizenReiki]

I'm with you. Loved Rodimus Prime. I bought Hot Rod toy along with Springer before I saw the movie or realized his importance. I think Judd Nelson voiced him perfectly in the movie.

[@MDthornton83]

Me personally, I always had a special place in my heart for Hotrod AKA Rodimus Prime. Sure, the character has had a bit of a rocky history. And right from the beginning, Rodimus had his fans as well as his haters. But I think he had a lot of potential to shine as a character, and it was wasted. Granted, its good that other people have made an effort to shine a better light on the character in the form of comic books and TV shows. But like you said, he hasn't had many TV appearances throughout the years. While TF Energon completely changed him from what he used to be, at least that show treated him with respect. While TF Animated really did not do him any justice at all. I always hope that Rodimus will receive better treatment elsewhere. But I have no hopes for his outing in the upcoming film "Transformers: The Last Knight". I mean this is Michael Bay we're talking about. And considering how far he's come in not caring about ANYTHING that made the franchise so great to begin with, can we really expect him to shine a positive light on Rodimus? No. Of course not.

[@ericjacques1]

Rodimus prime is one of the best in transformers history ! One of my favourites

[@brunotulliani]

Agree 100%

[@specraimism-verserodimussc849]

I don't blame Hot Rod for Prime's death, I blame Optimus Prime for his own death 'cause when Megatron tried to trick Prime by begging him for mercy Optimus started talking, and this lead Hot Rod to help Prime which he was caught in a headlock by Megatron and finally reaches the gun to blast Optimus Prime.

[@davidbailey6917]

Well, like Transmetal I Optimus Primal says, "You are the noblest individual that I know. You nobility is your strength, but its also your weakness." I personally disliked this quote, but it's true sometimes.

[@jerrybeckettdd]

Simply Excellent, I always wanted a Hotrod or Rodimus toy as a kid and never got one.

[@miraclebeatz]

He is one of my favorite characters and my favorite Autobot by far. His journey made him more relatable then Optimus. I never liked Optimus Prime until I got the dvds of season 1 and 2. When I was a child, Season 3 was my first taste of the Transformers and I always loved the futuristic look of all the characters. Optimus was bland because 90% he was too "perfect" where we saw Rodimus learn as he went along. Plus he had much to deal with. Optimus just had Megatron and his weapon of the week. Rodimus had Galvatron who was Megatron x 10 and twice as crazy.I loved this video...

[@RodimusPrimal]

Thanks! Don't get me wrong, I love Optimus Prime, but I'm a much bigger fan of Rodimus Prime. Not only did he have to deal with the insane Galvatron, but also the Quintessons and the intergalactic relations with Cybertron under his command. HUGE responsibilities by comparison.

[@jasonkirby5542]

I loved Rodimus Prime!! Thanks for the video!!

[@Always_on_Cue]

I always liked Hotrod , the only issues I had was I wish they redesigned his look. I felt like he deserved a more prime-ish look. Something that shows his ascension to leadership. I always liked his vehicle mode and loved him becoming a target master

[@KnickKnacksPlasticPlanet]

This is still my favorite of all your vids. It just makes me smile everytime it come up in my recommended vids. I always thought growing up I was one of the only huge Rodimus Prime fans. I always liked Optimus of course, but Rodimus IS the chosen one!

[@Darksnovia]

the problem I have with Romulus Prime is he was such a cool character in the movie and I felt like the writers just did not know what to do with him I like to see him in a future Transformers series done better than his G1 counterpart I don't hate him I just don't like how his character is handled in the series itself after how awesome he was in the movie.

[@trulythelongestnameinthisc8779]

Who's Romulus Prime?

[@ALoneFox24]

Man he's my favorite autobot also and I love the channel. I learned so much already from you man.

[@CannonFodder93]

This was a good video to dedicate to Dick Gautier. I wasn't that keen on Hot Rod/Rodimus in the movie (he felt a bit Mary Sueish and Judd Nelson's performance was kinda flat IMO), but once Dick took over in season three and Rodimus got a lot more depth, I absolutely loved him and he basically became my favorite Autobot character ever. Dick's performance had energy, anger, sadness, intensity and emotion that just added an extra bit of realism and a down-to-earth aspect to the character. One of the few episodes in season three I didn't like was Fight or Flee because I felt it was the only time Rodimus was off-character. Personally, I felt seasons three and four had the best writing in the series. Yes, there were stinkers like Starscream's Ghost, Only Human, Fight or Flee and Return of Optimus Prime, but all the other episodes were really well written IMO. In Headmasters, Rodimus was a disappointment. I really felt he was almost as bland as he was in Fight or Flee. The Marvel US version of Hot Rod, although sporadic in prominence, I really enjoyed his portrayal there. And I've only read a few UK stories, but I really loved Space Pirates, I really felt he was great in that one and I wish he had more interactions with Arcee like he did in this story. Energon Rodimus was just there. Didn't leave an impression on me at all. Plus, the voice performance makes me think more Ultra Magnus than Rodimus. TFA Rodimus disappointed me. I thought he was short-changed. Honestly, TFA Optimus makes me really think Rodimus should have been the leader in this show instead of just of a fanservice cameo. TLK Hot Rod is decent, but he got a bit shortchanged in terms of importance. Cyberverse Hot Rod is the only one that I feel has been as good as the G1 version. I like the importance he gains in some of the stories. I just wish IDW Rodimus was more like this. I always felt he was too much of an arrogant jerk. In my ideal story (I am actually doing fanfic scripts), Rodimus would actually be a haunted person suffering from PTSD. The loss of the first person he ever cared about, the loss of his very first platoon and the torture he endured as a POW would have taken a toll on him and would explain why he becomes so insecure and always tends to keep his thoughts to himself unless someone brings it up.

[@Ozzy_2014]

Loved movie. Have blu-ray and loved Rodimus Prime!

[@MatthewTheWolf2029]

And while I agree that season 3 wasn't perfect, it did have some solid episodes and solid material.

[@jmeprime]

Thanks for the upload, I've always been a big fan of Rodimus.

[@RodimusPrimal]

Thanks! He's been my favorite character since I saw the movie in theaters!

[@roadblock7801]

"The Ultimate Weapon" was my absolute favorite episode of Season 3.

[@Exoduss23]

its 2020 and i still get chills and giddy when i hear "Arise Rodimus Prime" i need to buy this movie all over again for my blue-ray lol

[@lobobizarro]

Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime has been my favorite since watching the movie release day at the cinema. I was 5 years old! XD I get the hate he receives, some old timers cannot accept change. To this day, I still tear up every time he transforms while Optimus states "Arise, Rodimus Prime". You really can't help feeling full of pride! "I knew you had potential, lad!" - Kup

[@RodimusPrimal]

I feel the same way. Love the character, even his flaws.

[@kevinlawson477]

I know my nephew loves he has both hot rod and Rodimus prime figures on a bookcase self

[@codytheshark2002]

Hot rod becoming rodimus was the best scene❤❤

[@JPJ1608]

We here in Britain actually find Rodimus bearable as in the English release of the 1986 movie, it had a message during the credits saying 'Optimus Prime will return...'!

[@RodimusPrimal]

I've heard of that. Personally I wish they kept Optimus dead until the end of Season 4, bringing him back as a Powermaster.

[@james89302]

Yeah, we didn't see that until almost the end of the third season in the U.S.

[@ShaunOnuma]

Rodimus Prime/Hot Rod is my favorite character as well. Good job on retrospect video.

[@novasizer3519]

He’ll always be my favorite

[@lh1168]

When I was a kid I didn't like him because he got Prime killed (I was 6), but after seeing the movie like 30+ times in the last 14 years, Hot Rod/Rodimus is absolutely my favourite character in the franchise. At the end of the movie he turns into an absolute bada**. His character development was great. When he says transform and rollout it makes me smile even all these years later. Great vid.

[@liamfletcher9332]

Optimus Prime and Rodimus Prime are the best

[@zakurowolfalphasilverwolf]

Half of fan love Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime, and the other half hate him. And I’m proud to say I’m one of the fans that love Hot Rod/Rodimus Prime. He’s a great character all around and I hope to see him in the (probably) many more spin offs of transformers to come. Especially the Netflix Transformers

[@robertpolityka8464]

Rodimus Prime had a bum rap. He was the young, reluctant leader who's biggest weakness was trying to get out of the shadow of his predecessor who commanded the Autobots for millions of years. It took a year for him to get most of his self-doubt of the system, but by that time, Optimus Prime came back to life and resumed command. Personally, I think if he was in charge for another season, he'd be even a better leader. I'm glad he had Ultra-Magnus there as his Deputy Leader and Kup as "The Grand Old Man" for support. The one element on the Transformers about Rodimus's leadership I wished the writers showed was how the other Autobots felt about Prime in command. About their level of confidence after a battle or two. Comparing the Primes. Don't get wrong, I know it's just a cartoon, but I was also 12 years old when Optimus died on TV. I think it's a lesson worth teaching. If the writers feel comfortable about having Optimus die, the writers should hopefully be in a "comfort zone" on showing doubt, then showing a lack in confidence in Rodimus leadership from others. They could have used Bumblebee/Goldbug or introduce a new character from Earth. Or maybe, Kup and Magnus could talk "in private" of concerns on Prime. Another Autobot, such as Springer, might speak of doubt of Rodimus PrIme's leadership. He could speak of preferring Ultra-Magnus in charge, but Magnus would defend Prime (even if he doubts).

[@jayryan2103]

I think your post makes a lot of sense and I love the idea of seeing the pov of the other autobots. However, I can tell you the reason the writers did not explore this angle was bc the death of Optimus wasnt done for storyline purposes or to explore a more mature angle or to even specifically explore the story of a new leader. Optimus death was simply done to wipe out the first gen toy line. Shows like Transformers and GI Joe weren’t developed for any other reason than to serve as a 22 minute commercial for toys. At the time, Hasbro had no earthly idea that people were invested into the show, the characters, etc. They saw it as one gigantic advertising campaign. It wasnt until after Optimus died and outpouring of upset parents, kids, fans alike that they realized that people saw Transformers as more than toys. They were characters that people had an emotional investment in. The death of Prime, I believe changed how these animated series would continue. They would no longer be JUST an advertising campaign, but a vehicle that people could escape reality with. I think thats why animated series of the 90s like XMen, Batman, Spiderman, etc would see more depth in their stories and more fleshed out characters.

[@robertpolityka8464]

@@jayryan2103 I agree with you. Prime was seen as almost a "father figure". On a sidenote, Duke from G.I. Joe was originally supposed to die in G.I. Joe, but the writers changed it to Duke being "in a coma". Doc later said that "Duke is doing fine". I know Prime and Duke are cartoon characters, but having Duke die within a year of Prime, might be too traumatic for boys who see both of them as "father figures".

[@jayryan2103]

@@robertpolityka8464 Totally agree with you on your Prime comparison. He took care of the autobots. I can remember balling my eyes out when I watched it and still didnt believe it. Even my father told me that I shouldnt worry bc they would bring him back by the end of the movie...well, after he ridiculed for crying over a cartoon robot. "Its a cartoon. He's not even a human in the cartoon. Its robot. Its a cartoon robot." I did know Duke was originally scheduled to die in the GI Joe The Movie. I dont know if that was being done bc they were wiping out his toy line or not though. I thought I heard that GI Joe was actually started first and was supposed to be out first, but they hit a snag with something and so once TFs was done, they didnt hesitate to get it out. But bc of the outcry from people over Optimus's death, they opted to make a change to the movie's outcome. BUT...it was too costly to go in and redo the animation. So if you watch the end, which when I was a kid I was so confused, you hear Doc say Duke is going to be ok but everyone starts crying. They couldnt change the animation. So while the story was change, the ending stayed the same with everyone upset at Duke....SURVIVING?!?!?! LOL! Also, I saw Prime as a father figure...but not so much Duke. I dont think you saw really an inclination of that till you saw the brother dynamic between him and Falcon in the movie. Interesting enough, didnt see like GI Joe was following the same story arc of TFs? The leader dies a heroic death trying to protect his family. The young hot shot needs to mature and over the next 1.5hrs, you watch them grow and become the leader the faction needs. Well...cept after GI Joe The Movie...Falcon didnt actually become a Joe leader in the animated series. In fact, we barely ever saw him again. Oh...and another thing. How freaking twisted was it that Season 3 gets started and they know they need to bring Optimus back, but before they do that....they have him come back as a damn zombie and kill him all over again?!?!?! I think that was worse than killing him period. Im sitting here, traumatized but believing my dad that he is going to come back. And the episode shows Prime returns, cept he is a damn zombie and we have to watch the Autobots kill him. For a fleeting moment my hopes are high and then crushed all over again. And then finally during Rebirth, they bring him back. And since this is before the internet, Im watching the return of Optimus and I am stoked. Then reruns...reruns...more reruns and I have no idea where the hell the new episodes are. Im thinking my tv freaking broke. Headmasters series comes out in Japan and now they are basically undoing the Rebirth story. And just to really mess with kid's heads....lets just go and kill off a bunch more of your favorites. Die Ultra Magnus. Takara says F YOU to Hasbro and puts Prime down AGAIN! Rodimus returns...oh for a cup of coffee bc him, Kup and Blurr are going to abandon the Autobots and Fortress Maximus is going to be leader...like that makes any damn sense. At least Arcee is around...sort of, she is nothing more than windrow dressing in the Takara series. AND...the Decepticon who killed Ultra Magnus...he's gonna become a hero and good buddy of Daniel. Takara was like F Ultra Magnus. Lets have the innocent kid who loved Magnus and cried over Prime's death become best buds with the cold blooded killer of Magnus. Takara had some twisted mines.

[@ChristopherStandardTime]

i loved hot rod/rodimus prime. thanks for this video.

[@HotRodakaMadMax]

Hot Rod aka Rodimus Prime is my favorite Transformer of all time.

[@Demondscott]

Hello Rodimus Primal!I love your channel and hot rod was my favorite transformer too!After watching your video I like him even better.Keep up the great work!

[@RodimusPrimal]

Thanks! I appreciate it!