FROM CYBERTRON TO EARTH: UNVEILING THE

BLOCKBUSTER SUCCESS OF TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE

BEASTS (2023) MOVIE

Ayu Wijiastuti
Faculty of Cultures and Languages, UIN Raden Mas Said Surakarta
email: [email protected]

Abstract
Many films that have achieved great success both in terms of finances and
popularity are called blockbuster films. This term originates from the Hollywood
film industry and has developed into one of the main indicators of a film's
commercial success. This paper presents an analysis of the blockbuster
phenomenon, focusing on the characteristics of the film "Transformers: Rise of
the Beasts”. The theory used in this research is the blockbuster theory from
Sheldon (2011). By using qualitative methods, this research aims to reveal the key
elements that contributed to the film's success as a blockbuster. From the
research results, the researcher found that the blockbuster characteristics in this
film include: 1) high production, 2) commercial success, 3) exceptional length, 4)
large scale, 5) spectacle, 6) certain genres, and 7) certain distribution and
exhibition.

Keywords: Blockbuster, Hollywood, Box office, Transformers, Movie

1. Introduction
According to Ibbi (2013), the Hollywood film industry has become an
important part of the global film industry, with influence extending far beyond the
United States to all corners of the world. Hollywood's success in adapting to
global trends and collaborating with local filmmakers has contributed to its
continued success. The American film industry continues to make significant
contributions to the global market through the production of films that appeal to
wide audiences, supported by substantial financial resources and effective
marketing strategies (Perren et al., 2004).
These big-budget, high-grossing films often feature complex special effects,
star-studded casts, and extensive marketing campaigns to appeal to wide
audiences. Blockbusters have had a huge influence on popular culture, shaping
trends, influencing other media, and often serving as a benchmark for cinematic
success (Wyatt, 1994). The term "blockbuster" originally referred to bombs
during World War II that could destroy entire city blocks, but has since been used
by the film industry to describe films that earn large box office receipts.
According to Herrington (2015), the term blockbuster first appeared in 1975, after
the release of Steven Spielberg's film Jaws. How Jaws by Spielberg or Star Wars
by George Lucas soared in the blockbuster era and was able to develop for
decades until now. More and more films are being released with the blockbuster
film label, for example, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Harry Potter, Avengers,
Star Wars, and even Transformers which are large-scale films and are labeled
blockbuster films, featuring high concepts and played by actors and actresses. top
board. These films not only generated unprecedented financial returns but also
created immersive cinematic experiences that captivated audiences around the
world.
According to King (2000), the emergence of the blockbuster film coincided
with technological advances, particularly in special effects and computer-
generated imagery (CGI), which enabled filmmakers to bring spectacular visions
to the big screen. These technological advances allow for the creation of epic
narratives and stunning visual worlds. However, the dominance of blockbuster
films has sparked debate within the film industry and among critics. While these
films can drive significant economic growth and job creation, they often crowd
out smaller independent films that may offer innovative storytelling and different
perspectives. Additionally, a focus on profitability can lead to formulaic
storytelling, which prioritizes spectacle over substance (Shone, 2004).
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023) by Steven Caple Jr. shows how a film is
said to be a blockbuster and its characteristics.

Figure 1. Box office budget data of the film according to IMDb

This image shows a huge production budget, reaching 200 million US dollars
and grossing $400 million worldwide from its production, which reflects the high
costs spent on advanced technology, spectacular special effects, and famous
actors. With a large scale and long duration, this film displays extraordinary
action scenes and impressive visuals which are the main attraction for the
audience. Additionally, the film is designed for commercial success, with a global
distribution strategy ensuring it can be seen by the largest possible audience
worldwide.
This research highlights questions regarding the role and characteristics of
blockbuster films in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. To answer this question,
this research uses theory from Sheldon (2011). This article aims to examine the
typical characteristics of blockbuster films described by Sheldon (2011) in his
essay, including high production, commercial success, exceptional length, large
scale, spectacle, certain genres, and certain distribution and exhibition strategies.
By analyzing Transformers: Rise of the Beasts through the lens of these
characteristics, the author attempts to provide a deeper understanding of what
makes a film a blockbuster and how it is designed to achieve massive success.

2. Theoretical Framework
Blockbuster films have been an important element in the film industry for
many years. These films often target a wide audience and aim to generate
significant revenue through ticket sales, merchandise products, and additional
markets. Film scholars and critics have conducted in-depth analyses of various
aspects of blockbuster films, including their cultural impact, narrative structure,
and related industry practices.
In addition, blockbuster films are the audio-visual products that best represent
Hollywood today. The outline of these films is difficult to determine because they
cover a variety of genres and do not have specific binding characteristics
(Stringer, 2003). According to Cucco (2009), blockbusters are heavily promoted
before release, exposing audiences to a wealth of interest-generating paratextual
material. Meanwhile, the box office is the main source of income for large studios
operating in the film and entertainment media industry. The box office is
considered an important indicator of commercial success, reflecting the success of
major stars and studios. As Hampton (in Gencer, 2006) states, box office grosses
reflect 'the audience's unspoken desires.' Although a film can be a blockbuster and
be successful at the box office, not all box office success means the film is a
blockbuster. A film can perform well at the box office without becoming a
cultural phenomenon or having a significant impact on the film industry.
Conversely, a film can be a blockbuster without having to be commercially
successful at the box office.
In this case, Sheldon (2011) discusses blockbusters and their characteristics. He
stated that in this case, Sheldon (2011) discussed the meaning and characteristics
of blockbuster films. He notes that the term "blockbuster" was originally used
during the Second World War to describe the very large bombs (1,000 pounds or
more) used in Allied aerial carpet attacks on military and civilian targets in Nazi
Germany. Blockbuster films certainly have several characteristics or elements
inherent in them. Sheldon Hall (2011) also stated several characteristics of
blockbuster films, namely high production, commercial success, exceptional
length, large scale, spectacle, certain genres, and certain distribution and
exhibition. 1) High production, involves a large investment in production,
including special effects, filming locations, and the talent of the actors and crew.
2) Commercial success, often achieves great success at the box office, generating
very high revenues. 3) Exceptional length, has a longer duration than the average
film. 4) Large scale, features an epic narrative and vast scope, often including
many locations and spectacular effects. 5) Spectacle, prioritizes impressive visual
elements and thrilling action. 6) Certain genres, tend to be in popular genres such
as action, science fiction, and fantasy. 7) Certain distribution and exhibition:
usually distributed widely and promoted through large marketing campaigns. This
theory helps us understand the distinctive characteristics of blockbuster films and
how these films differ from other film productions.
Despite their commercial success, blockbuster films have been criticized for
placing too much emphasis on entertainment over the substance of the story.
Critics argue that these films focus more on visual effects and action sequences
than complex character development and meaningful storytelling. However,
defenders of blockbuster films, such as Jenkins (2006), say that these films can
still provide valuable insights into contemporary culture and can provide an
immersive experience for audiences. In conclusion, blockbuster films remain a
significant phenomenon in the film industry. Although often criticized for their
formulaic nature and commercial motives, these films continue to shape cultural
narratives and engage audiences around the world. Therefore, this research is to
explore the role and features of blockbuster films which continue to develop in an
increasingly digital and global media landscape.

3. Research Method
This research is a qualitative descriptive research design. The data that is the
focus of the research consists of textual data and visual data obtained from the
film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023). Textual data in the form of writing
such as words, phrases, sentences, and dialogues, and visual data in the form of
screenshots to explore participants' experiences and understanding regarding the
research topic.
In data collection techniques, the researcher watched the film to be analyzed,
then the researcher noted important things related to the problems in the film.
After observing and recording things related to the problem, the researcher then
concludes the data to be analyzed. This technique is used by researchers to collect
data regarding blockbuster features contained in films. In data analysis techniques,
researchers use descriptive analysis techniques. By using this method, the data
collected is descriptive in nature from the results of the researcher's interpretation
of the narrative in the film, especially related to the research objective of
describing the blockbuster features in the film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.
The following are the data analysis procedures that researchers will carry out in
this research: 1) Identify and group data into a unified whole regarding the
characteristics or elements of blockbusters in films. 2) Analyze and describe
research results sequentially and regularly by referring to relevant theories and
linking them to the data in the film. 3) Concluding the results of the analysis of
the blockbuster features contained in the film.
Data collection was carried out to dig up information about the characteristics
of blockbusters. This helps broaden the viewpoint and discover important
characteristics or elements in the data, which then helps in understanding how the
film ranks among blockbusters.

4. Result and Discussion

In this study, researchers used the blockbusters theory from Sheldon (2011) as
a conceptual framework. This theory identifies seven characteristics that define a
blockbuster film, namely high production, commercial success, exceptional
length, large scale, spectacular, certain genre, and certain distribution and
exhibition. In the context of the film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts this
research analyzes how these characteristics are reflected in and contribute to the
film's success.
1) High Production
In this film, there is strong evidence of high production, a typical
characteristic of blockbuster films. The production of this film involved the use of
high technology such as CGI and sophisticated special effects to create a fantastic
and impressive world for the audience. In terms of production, this film also
involves the creation of large and complicated sets, as well as the use of costumes
and props that require high attention to detail. And of course, it also includes the
salaries of top actors and actresses. All this indicates a high level of production,
which is one of the main factors in the success of blockbuster films.
 Figure 2. The cast of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts film

Figure 3. High-tech CGI and sophisticated special effects

According to 2023 IMDb data, the film has an estimated production budget of
around $200 million. This large budget allowed for the use of advanced
technology such as CGI, stunning special effects, and an overall high-quality
production. This results in spectacular visuals and awesome action scenes, with
renowned actors and actresses such as Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback,
Tobe Nwigwe, Dean Scott Vazquez, and others. This film also involves the voices
of famous Transformers characters such as Peter Cullen, Peter Dinklage, and Pete
Davidson. In addition, this film also uses other advanced technology, including
sound effects and state-of-the-art recording equipment.
2) Commercial success
Characteristics of a blockbuster film include commercial success, which is
usually aimed at achieving major financial success, either through box office
revenue or marketing potential across multiple platforms.
The film managed to earn $400 million worldwide from its production. This
income includes all income generated from ticket sales and other income directly
related to the production and marketing of the film. This film managed to achieve
high revenues throughout the world. This success was largely driven by the
established popularity of the Transformers franchise, as well as intense promotion
before and during the film's release. This amount reflects the financial success of
the film and shows its high popularity in the market, even exceeding its
production costs.
3) Exceptional length

Figure 4. Technical specs runtime in IMDb data of the film according to IMDb

The longer duration of the film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, namely 2
hours and 7 minutes, provides greater space for in-depth story development. With
this longer duration, the film has the opportunity to explore various storylines,
present spectacular scenes, and develop characters in a more complex way. So, the
audience can experience a more complex emotional journey and connect more
strongly with the story. Apart from that, it also allows the audience to better
understand the conflict, character motivation, and story resolution more
thoroughly
4) Large scale
In this film, there is a large-scale depiction which is one of the typical
characteristics of blockbuster films. This large scale is visible in many aspects of
production. Additionally, the epic battles between the Autobots and Terrorcons
also reflect a grand scale, with scenes involving the destruction of large buildings
and expansive environments. The use of sophisticated CGI technology is also a
supporting factor in creating this large scale, allowing the audience to plunge into
the fantastic and spectacular world offered by this film. The large-scale presence
in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts not only strengthens the essence of the
blockbuster film but also provides a stunning visual experience for the audience.

Figure 5. Machu Picchu, Peru, South America

Features the archaeological site of Machu Picchu in Peru, South America,

providing an overview of the ancient building complex built by the Incas in the
15th century. Machu Picchu is located in the middle of the Andes mountains. The
large and expansive surroundings of this site show the beauty of the surrounding
nature, as well as the splendor of an ancient civilization that was able to build
such monumental structures in areas that are difficult to reach. It also reflects the
close relationship between the Inca civilization and its natural surroundings, as
well as the tribe's extraordinary architectural and engineering skills.

Figure 6. The Brooklyn Bridge, New York

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest and most famous suspension bridges
in the United States connecting Manhattan with Brooklyn across the East River.
The grandeur and visual appeal of the Brooklyn Bridge reflect the large-scale
concepts often found in blockbuster films. As in film production which requires
building large sets and spacious environments. The Brooklyn Bridge itself is an
extraordinary product of engineering, whether in the real world or the fictional
world of films.
5) Spectacular
 Blockbuster films often feature very spectacular scenes, such as intense action,
massive battles, or striking use of special effects.

Figure 7. Explosion of the transwarp key with special effects

Figure 8. The spectacular epic battle between Optimus Prime and Scourge

In this film, there is an epic battle between Autobots and Terrorcons which
meets these criteria. The battles not only involve intense action between the main
characters but also feature advanced special effects and CGI technology to create
an incredible visual spectacle. The battle not only features intense action between
the two factions but also displays a grand scale, with giant robots battling each
other and presenting battle scenes filled with explosions and impressive visual
effects. The use of advanced CGI technology allows filmmakers to create fantastic
and stunning worlds for audiences, in keeping with the taste of blockbusters that
require impressive action and compelling visual spectacle.
6) Certain genre

Figure 9. The spectacular epic battle between Autobot and Terrorcon

This film falls into the action-adventure and science-fiction genres. As an

action-adventure film, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts offers spectacular action
scenes and is full of tension. With the conflict between the Autobots and
Maximals against their enemies, the film provides a thrilling experience for
audiences looking for intense action. On the other hand, as a science fiction film,
this film presents a fantastic world where alien robots can transform into vehicles
and animals. This science fiction story is not only entertaining but also invites the
audience to think about possibilities beyond the limits of our current technological
capabilities. As such, the film has broad appeal to audiences who enjoy its
combination of thrilling action adventure and entertaining and inspiring science
fiction stories.
7) Certain distribution and exhibition
This distribution and exhibition includes extensive and intensive marketing
strategies before and during the film's release, involving promotion across various
media and platforms to reach a wider audience. In addition, the film is also
expected to be screened in major cinemas around the world, including in
important international markets such as China, Europe, and Latin America. This
film was also released on a limited basis in several places and then developed into
a mass release accompanied by a large and intensive marketing campaign. Proper
distribution and exhibition play an important role in increasing the film's exposure
to potential audiences and in ensuring that it receives the attention it deserves as a
blockbuster production.
Promotion of the film was also carried out on a large scale, including intensive
marketing campaigns in various media. Exciting television commercials and
evocative online trailers can be found on various platforms. Apart from that,
promotions via social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok
are also carried out to reach a wider audience and connect with film fans. To
pique audience interest, exclusive content is also presented, such as behind-the-
scenes footage revealing the filming process, interviews with cast members to
hear their views on the film, and action-adventure footage showcasing epic scenes
from the film.

Figure 10. Porch 911 car used by the Mirage Autobots

In the film, the Porsche car is also introduced as one of the main characters,
which adds to the film's appeal as a blockbuster. The use of Porsche cars,
especially iconic models such as the Porsche 911, not only adds an element of
luxury and high performance to the film but also strengthens the connection
between the film and the famous brand. This is an example of a typical
distribution and promotional strategy used in blockbuster films. Porsche is also
actively promoting this film through platforms such as YouTube and other social
media.
In addition, this film also uses premium formats such as IMAX and Dolby
Atmos which not only aim to enhance the superior visual and auditory viewing
experience but also become an important part of the film's distribution and
exhibition strategy to make this film more attractive and successful in the market.

5. Conclusion (and Suggestion)

It can be concluded that the term "blockbuster" was not originally intended for
a film context but rather originated in the Second World War as a nickname for
large bombs (1,000 pounds or more). This concept was later adapted to describe a
film produced on a large scale to achieve great success in the market. In the
context of films, the blockbuster theory put forward by Sheldon (2011) states that
blockbuster films have several distinctive characteristics, including high-cost
production, huge commercial success, unusually long film duration, large
production scale, grand spectacle, genre certain films that often involve action and
fantasy, as well as certain distribution and exhibition designed to maximize the
reach and success of the film.
 The film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023) is a blockbuster film that
reflects these characteristics. With a production budget of up to $200 million, this
film meets the criteria for a high-cost production. Its commercial success can be
seen from its box office revenue which reached $400 million. The film has a long
duration of up to 2 hours, an extensive large scale, and the use of advanced
technology such as CGI to create spectacular visual effects. Apart from that, this
film also carries the action-adventure and science-fiction genres, which are genres
often associated with blockbuster films. The distribution and exhibition of this
film were also carried out on a large scale, including screenings in premium
formats such as IMAX and Dolby Atmos, as well as an intensive marketing
campaign through various media.

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