Note: The following article contains spoilers for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, the seventh installment in the thrilling sci-fi franchise, left audiences captivated with its stunning finale and a surprise crossover into the world of G.I. Joe. Actor Michael Kelly, who portrays Agent Burke, sheds light on the intricacies of that memorable Transformers scene in an exclusive interview with FilmSweep. As fans eagerly await the premiere of the Paramount+ series Special Ops: Lioness later this month, Kelly divulges that there is more to the scene than meets the eye.
In the closing moments of the film directed by Steven Caple Jr., Burke endeavors to recruit Noah Diaz (played by Anthony Ramos) and enlightens him about their agency’s mission to thwart Unicron. Burke reveals that a greater conflict looms beyond the Transformers universe, hinting at an expansive storyline. The scene holds significant promise for Noah’s character development, following his heroic exploits alongside the Autobots and Maximals. Upon handing Noah a business card adorned with the iconic G.I. Joe insignia, Burke leads him through doors that reveal a bustling bunker, where teams are working on alien spacecraft. Kelly reveals to FilmSweep that although this final moment opens doors to a broader cinematic universe, a lot went on behind the scenes to make it happen.
“[Steven Caple Jr.] called me and pitched this idea for the film, which was initially intended to be a post-credits scene. However, they decided to make it the last scene of the film for reasons unknown,” shares Kelly exclusively with FilmSweep. “When he described it to me, he said, ‘And then there’s this entire G.I. Joe world that we’re not certain we have the rights to yet, but we really want to connect the two worlds. I think it would be a really cool concept.'”
Image via Paramount Pictures
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Decoding the Significance of the Iconic Cameo in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’
Contrary to what the audience sees—Noah receiving a single card—Kelly reveals that the shooting process was more intricate. “During the filming, we shot the scene with a couple of different cards that I hand to him. The one you see on screen is not the only one we filmed,” he chuckles.
Michael Kelly’s cameo in Rise of the Beasts was a result of long-standing anticipation. Having been summoned after principal photography to shoot the scenes, Kelly reflects on the history behind his involvement. “I met Steven… many years ago, and we had a coffee meeting in Los Angeles. It was set up by our agents or something like that, you know, ‘Let’s have coffee with this guy. He’s a talented up-and-coming director.’ He had just finished working on Creed II, and I thought, ‘Yeah, I’d love to meet him!’ We sat down and instantly hit it off, engaging in a conversation that lasted for an hour or two. It was years ago, before the pandemic, and nothing really materialized from it. I never heard from him again. Then, one day, out of the blue, I receive a call saying, ‘Hey, Steven wants to have a chat with you… he wants to discuss an idea he had.'”
Kelly expresses his elation at being a part of the film, particularly as a father to an 11-year-old. “I was so thrilled to be involved, especially considering my son’s excitement when he sees it! It was fun to immerse myself in one of these franchise worlds, especially one I grew up with—Transformers, G.I. Joe. Being 54 years old, I grew up with both of those franchises. So, for me, being a part of it was truly thrilling and incredibly cool,” he shares.
While the future of the final scene and the crossover between Transformers and G.I. Joe remains uncertain, Caple assures fans that he is deeply involved in developing the sequel to Rise of the Beasts. He mentions that the sequel will “definitely incorporate some Joes characters,” but it may not delve into the true origins of the Joes, according to Entertainment Weekly.
As for Kelly’s potential return and leading the charge like the cinematic world’s Nick Fury, the actor jovially responds to FilmSweep, saying, “Your wish may just come true!”
Note: The original text has been modified and expanded for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about G.I. Joe crossover
What is the significance of the ‘G.I. Joe’ scene in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’?
The ‘G.I. Joe’ scene in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ marks a crossover between the two franchises, expanding the cinematic universe and teasing future storylines involving both Transformers and G.I. Joe characters.
How does Michael Kelly contribute to the ‘G.I. Joe’ scene?
Michael Kelly plays the character of Agent Burke in the scene. He reveals the agency’s mission to recruit Noah Diaz and stop Unicron, hinting at a larger conflict beyond the Transformers world. Kelly’s character provides Noah with a business card bearing the G.I. Joe insignia, opening doors to the G.I. Joe universe.
Was the ‘G.I. Joe’ scene originally planned as a post-credits scene?
Yes, initially, the ‘G.I. Joe’ scene was intended to be a post-credits scene. However, the filmmakers decided to make it the final scene of the film instead, creating a bigger impact and setting up future connections between the two franchises.
Will there be a sequel incorporating G.I. Joe characters?
Yes, the director, Steven Caple Jr., has confirmed that a sequel to ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ is in development. The sequel is expected to incorporate some G.I. Joe characters, although it may not explore the true origins of the Joes.
Is Michael Kelly expected to reprise his role in future films?
While it is uncertain whether Michael Kelly will return for future films, he expressed enthusiasm about being part of the franchise and his desire to continue his involvement. However, no official announcements have been made regarding his return.
More about G.I. Joe crossover
- Transformers: Rise of the Beasts Official Website
- Michael Kelly IMDb
- Steven Caple Jr. IMDb
- Entertainment Weekly Article on ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’
- FilmSweep Official Website
2 comments
the final scene of transformers rise of the beasts had me on the edge of my seat! michael kelly’s involvement adds an exciting twist to the story! can’t wait to see more epic action! #Transformers #GIJoe
transformers and g.i. joe united?! dreams do come true! michael kelly’s character is the bridge to a bigger world! can’t wait to see how it all unfolds! #Transformers #GIJoe #Crossover