This ‘Transformers’ and ‘X-Files’ Crossover Needs to Be Adapted On-Screen

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  • This Could Be So Much Better Than G.I. Joe

Despite 2023’s “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts” being a significant box office letdown within the series, a hint in the post-credit scene at the film’s end suggests that the renowned robots might cross paths with another Hasbro brand, G.I. Joe. This potential crossover could involve actors from past “G.I. Joe” movies returning to their roles, and as per an interview with Collider, producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura hinted, “Transformers will exhibit more emotions and autonomy than ever before!

Despite numerous reports circulating about the upcoming live-action crossover in the series, fans from both franchises are quick to highlight that such occurrences have been a common theme in the Transformers comic book continuity. Prior to Skybound Entertainment acquiring the license in 2023, IDW Publishing had held it for an extended period of 17 years. During this time, they produced a wealth of content. Not only were there seven distinct series dedicated solely to Transformers lore, but numerous crossover miniseries emerged as well, featuring the Hasbro toy line intertwining with other popular cultural properties, resulting in some truly epic tales.

Whether you’re an avid fan of the franchise or casually read comics, chances are you remember that brief period in 2020 when Optimus Prime and Twilight Sparkle joined forces to thwart Queen Chrysalis. Although that unconventional tale may have stirred debate, let me clarify that this article is not about that. Simultaneously, another series was circulating with a more somber tone, where the Autobots were tasked with preventing a T-800 from the Terminator franchise from annihilating all Cybertronians on Earth. Leaving those stories aside for now, there were instances when IDW Publishing didn’t hold back when it came to combining various franchises in their crossovers.

Transformers in an ‘X-Files’ Comic?

In January 2014, following the acquisition of the rights to the X-Files series, Idea and Design Works launched a five-issue miniseries titled “X-Files: Secret Agenda“. This unique series not only brought back popular characters from the original TV show but also introduced some unexpected elements – namely, characters from shows like Ghostbusters, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, and even The Crow.

Instead of the individual “G.I Joe” series (it’s no secret that both the 2013 “G.I. Joe: Retaliation” and the 2021 “Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins” have fallen short of expectations), let us envision a grand, science fiction-themed action thriller movie that brings together all these franchises. Let’s delve into this six-part storyline and discuss the potential advantages of bringing these unique stories to life on the big screen.

In essence, The Lone Gunmen (whose on-screen deaths were overturned in comics) delved into mysterious emails containing encrypted data. These emails revealed future newspapers depicting a lethal biotechnological virus outbreak. If left unchecked, this plague would lead to humanity’s downfall. As they drew nearer to the truth, concealed by the malevolent corporation called Skylogic Systems, each installment found the trio entangled in an exciting storyline linked to one of the four franchises.

In their latest adventure, Ghostbusters collaborate with a renowned group to capture a potent level five spirit. Turtles in Time has them protecting a town from a coven of hippie vampires. Transformers pays tribute to Michael Bay’s style in an intense action-filled episode. The Crow comic finds a revived state trooper battling against Skylogic Systems, while the final issue returns to the central enigma and delivers a thrilling, mind-twisting conclusion that you won’t want to skip!

This Could Be So Much Better Than G.I. Joe

It’s clear that these classic franchises – G.I Joe, Transformers, The Crow, The Ghostbusters, and even The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – have seen a decline in popularity among younger audiences when it comes to their cinematic outings. The upcoming 2023 movie, Mutant Mayhem, has shown that the Ninja Turtles still have what it takes to attract modern audiences. Perhaps a non-traditional crossover could be the key to revitalizing these iconic properties and bringing them back into the spotlight for today’s moviegoers.

As a passionate fan of both The Crow and Ghostbusters, I strongly believe that the creators of X Files: Conspiracy have an opportunity to enhance the viewing experience for fans like myself by addressing some common criticisms. For instance, the dialogue could be made more engaging, and the guest franchises could interact with each other beyond just the lone gunmen characters. This would not only satisfy long-time fans of each franchise but also create a more immersive and exciting narrative.

Given the recent box office failures of both The Crow and Ghostbusters, Lionsgate and Sony are in dire need of a cinematic revival. A well-executed crossover with X Files: Conspiracy could be just the miracle they need to reignite fan interest and boost their financial fortunes.

It’s important to note that G.I Joe, initially given a shared universe concept which faltered six months after being conceived, and the Snake Eyes sequel film, which was scrapped due to the initial movie’s lackluster performance, both have faced challenges. Combining these struggling intellectual properties isn’t likely to result in a jackpot. However, if Mulder and Scully were to team up with shape-shifting vehicles, aquatic humanoid beings, ghost-hunting teams, and an eternal vengeful entity to thwart an alien invasion planned from the heart of our government, I believe most people would respond enthusiastically with, “count me in.

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2025-01-10 02:31