In a move that’s sure to excite fans of both the Transformers and G.I. Joe franchises, Paramount is developing a crossover film that will bring the iconic Hasbro properties together on the big screen. And at the center of this highly anticipated superhero mashup is none other than Chris Hemsworth, the versatile Aussie actor who has proven his action chops in blockbusters like the Thor and Extraction franchises.
As reported by Deadline, Hemsworth is currently in negotiations to lead the as-yet-untitled Transformers and G.I. Joe crossover movie. This comes on the heels of Hemsworth’s turn as the voice of Optimus Prime in the upcoming animated feature Transformers: One, further cementing his connection to the Hasbro universe.
The seeds for this crossover were planted in the post-credits scene of last year’s Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, where ex-soldier Noah (Anthony Ramos) is recruited by a mysterious G.I. Joe agent, played by Michael Kelly. “We’re in the middle of an ongoing war,” the agent ominously declares, setting the stage for the two iconic properties to collide.
While details about the plot and production timeline remain scarce, the involvement of director Steven Caple Jr., who helmed Rise of the Beasts, is seen as a positive sign. Caple’s steady hand on the most recent Transformers installment, which grossed a respectable $439 million globally, makes him a logical choice to oversee the crossover.
And with Hemsworth attached to lead the charge, the Transformers-G.I. Joe mashup has the potential to be a box office juggernaut. The Thor star’s global appeal and proven action credentials could be the perfect pairing for the collision of these two beloved Hasbro franchises.
As for the involvement of Michael Bay, the director of the first five live-action Transformers films, it appears he will be stepping back into a producer role for the crossover. Bay had previously expressed hesitation about blending the two properties, concerned that it would “cheapen” the Transformers world, but it seems he’s now on board to help guide the project.
Fans of both Transformers and G.I. Joe have long clamored for a cinematic collision of these two iconic brands, and it looks like their wishes are finally coming true. With Hemsworth leading the charge and a seasoned creative team at the helm, this crossover could be the superhero event of the year when it finally hits theaters.
