Screenshot of a planet-devouring Transformer, possibly Unicron, in the teaser trailer for 'Transformers: The Last Knight' (Photo : YouTube/ Paramount Pictures)
The first teaser trailer for "Transformers: The Last Knight" has been released online, showcasing the continuing battle of the Autobots against the Decepticons and the humans caught in between. However, the teaser also hints at the introduction of one of the most iconic villain in "Transformers" lore.
At the 1:17 mark in the trailer a large structure is shown ready to engulf a planet or moon. According to the Hollywood Reporter, this may be a first glimpse of the Transformer known as Unicron, a Transformer known for devouring entire planets.
Unicron was first introduced in the 1986 animated "Transformers" movie which saw Unicron attempt to destroy all life in the universe. He was voiced by Orson Welles in what would be one of the actor-director's final roles before his death.
In the numerous television shows and comic books, Unicron is the twin brother of the Creator Transformer and often travels across the multiverse and timelines to destroy another iteration of Optimus Prime, as they are fated to be arch rivals in every universe in existence.
The report points out that the body of Optimus Prime is shown floating in space, frozen and lifeless. This is speculated to be Optimus Prime from a different universe and not the Optimus Prime that had traveled to the ruins of Cybertron. It should be important to note that this plot point has yet to be confirmed.
While the appearance of Unicron has been teased but not yet confirmed, there are other tantalizing portions in the trailer. One such instance is shown at the end when Optimus and Bumblebee are shown fighting each other despite being close allies for the past four films.
Anthony Hopkins is also shown in the trailer although the exact nature of his role is still uncertain. Also shown are snippets of Transformers influencing events during World War II and in the Arthurian period. The trailer also depicts Mark Wahlberg's Cade Yeager together with Josh Duhamel's Lieutenant William Lennox.
Other returning cast members include Tyrese Gibson, Stanley Tucci and John Turturro, Cinema Blend reported. Newcomers include Isabela Moner, Jerrod Carmichael, Mitch Pileggi, Laura Haddock and Liam Gariggan who plays King Arthur.
"Transformers: The Last Knight" opens in theatres on June 23, 2017.
