Editing Commercial/Generation 1

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[[Image:Hasbrooldlogo.jpg|left|75px|thumb|And if I had a hammer....]]
Generation 1's stylized and somewhat dated commercials played a huge part in propelling the [[Transformers brand]] to household name status (after all, they reached audiences who weren't actively looking for robots). As the [[theme song]] played over many of them, they are also responsible for the jingle's status as a mid-80s icon.

Generation 1 commercials would commonly start with a short sequence of original cel animation, then cut to two or more boys in the 7 to 10-year-old range playing with the toys. [[Victor Caroli]] and another narrator (here referred to as [[The Other Guy]]) provided voice-overs to describe just how exciting the incredible new toys were. Various show characters narrated some spots, including Optimus Prime, Megatron, Ultra Magnus and Rodimus Prime, but Caroli and The Other Guy were usually there at the end to affirm that the toys were "each sold separately". Background music would feature the show's [[theme song]], but often with new lyrics about the toys in question. The lyrics had to stretch to fit the cadence of the song; sometimes they were jammed into a different melody altogether. Most of the early commercials had an animated segment at the end with Hasbro's logo being "hammered" by animated human hands onto the screen, often having Caroli saying "...only from Hasbro!".

[[Image:Jetfireg1commercial.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Transforms from robot to lawsuit right before your eyes!]] 
The animated segments often featured high-quality art and animation. Some of the 1986 and 1987 animation was combined into a [[title sequence]] for "[[The Rebirth]]", the final three-part episode of the Generation 1 cartoon (they contrasted painfully with the lower-quality segments produced by [[AKOM]].) The short length of television commercials meant the animated sections were fast-paced, with characters speaking their lines very rapidly; within the context of the fictional world they portray, this could lead to some hilarious results, such as Jazz taking about 1/4th of a second to decide to become an Action Master. The animated segments would sometimes feature the voice actors from the cartoon; however, some such as Blaster had not been assigned a voice actor yet. Later segments required soundalikes for characters whose voice actors had died (Jazz) or were unavailable (Megatron). These spots were the only American animation produced for dozens of characters from the toyline's later years, and in [[Micromaster Combiner|a few cases]], remain their only fictional appearance ''ever''.

[[Image:OptimusMagnusCommercialChange.JPG|right|250px|thumb|The Halloween masks were weak this year.]]
[[Image:Kid_to_Galvatron.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Transforms from child to robot and back!]]
Perhaps the most memorable aspect of the commercials featured one of the young actors staring very seriously into the camera, mouthing "Robots in disguise!" as his eyes glowed and/or his face transformed into that of a robot (based on Galvatron or Ultra Magnus.)  Variants on the "kidmation" clip continued throughout Generation 1. ''[[Transformers Animated: The AllSpark Almanac|The AllSpark Almanac]]'' dubbed this process "[[reverse-pretender technology]]."
 
Many commercials were reedited into even shorter versions, without the animation segments.

Some of these commercials, along with some Takara Transformers ads are available on the Sony DVD release of [[The Transformers: The Movie]]. Because of legal issues, the young actors' faces have now been blurred. A greater number of the commercials (of varying quality) were also avaliable on the earlier [[Madman Entertainment]] release of The Transformers: The Movie in Australia, and their final collection of the Generation 1 cartoon complete with unblurred children. [[Shout! Factory]]'s "Matrix of Leadership" complete series collection of the Generation 1 cartoon, as well as some of their individual season sets, contains several Generation 1 commercials and the ad for Generation 2 Optimus Prime. The first season set's "Triple Changer: The Origins of the Transformers" featurette contains clips of the commercial for the ''The Transformers'' #1 comic.


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===1984===
[[Image:Earlymegatron.jpg|right|200px|thumb|You've got to get up preeeetty early in 1984 to catch Megs with a black head.]]
[[Image:Starscreamg1early.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Starscream in his Ramjet suit.]]
* '''''The Transformers'' #1''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9-7RjhFzpM]

:''Animation:'' Fast pan-ins take us from [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] to [[Earth]], with a Decepticon ship attacking the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]] and forcing it to crash on Earth.  The three [[Seeker (body-type)|Seekers]] fly in, transform and attack a power plant.  Three cars drive out to meet them, transforming into [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], and [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]]. [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] joins the counter-attack, prompting the Autobots to take off into the sky.  [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] arrives out of an explosion cloud, transforming and firing.  An image of [[The Transformers (issue)|the first issue]] cross-fades into view.
:''Toy segment:'' None.
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:''Notes:'' Almost every element is an early production model.  [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] have strangely colored faces; Megatron is in his pre-animation black helmeted design; the Ark is a green-colored model with X-shaped wings; and the Decepticon ship resembles a flying aircraft carrier. 


* '''Transformers''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcDja2hgxiQ]

:''Animation:'' In the desert, the Seekers strafe Prowl, Sideswipe and Jazz, who transform and fire back; the three jets transform, land, and grapple with the Autobots, while three more Seekers fly past in robot mode.  
:''Toy segment:'' Some very early 80s streaking effects as the toys are shown instantly changing from vehicle to robot.
:''Narration:'' Almost none, apart from "The Transformers, from Hasbro", by [[Victor Caroli]].  
:''Kidmation:'' Bowl haircut kid mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"
:''Notes:'' The show's season 1 theme song plays over most of the commercial. A total of six Seekers are seen in a single shot.  The Seekers continue to use the pre-cartoon animation models with the dark faces.
:"We're under attack!" "[[To sell toys|Get more Autobots!]]"


* '''Optimus Prime''' and '''Megatron''' [http://dvd.ign.com/dor/objects/14342171/transformers-the-complete-first-season-25th-anniversary-edition/videos/trans_com_062309.html]
:''Animation:'' Partially recycled from the ''Transformers #1'' commercial and the cartoon opening, including animation model Megatron leading his troops, immediately followed by pre-animation model Megatron landing.  Whoops!  New footage (possibly borrowed from Soundwave's commercial below) shows Prowl, Jazz and Sideswipe on what appears to be Cybertron.
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:''Kidmation:'' Buck-toothed kid mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"
: "Attack the Autobot commander!" "Call in the Decepticon leader!"  Yep, Neither Optimus Prime's nor Megatron's name is ever actually mentioned in the commercial.
:* '''Optimus Prime''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kbokeZsoTY] - Nearly the same as above, except the footage of Megatron transforming with streaking effects is replaced by footage of the Optimus Prime toy being "flown" in front of a mountain. The reason for Megatron's removal is unknown, but likely due to legal and/or ethical issues with advertising a toy that turns into a realistic looking gun.
:* '''Optimus Prime''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSPgnamkOSY#t=0m06s] - A resoundtracked version of the previous Megatron-less ad, this time using the Season 2 theme song. Obviously this version didn't air until 1985.


[[Image:Soundwavecommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Soundwave's pink phase didn't last long... [[:Image:Soundwave_uscomics.jpg|in the cartoon.]]]]
* '''Soundwave''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhIb5H5rSkg]

:''Animation:'' Prowl, Jazz, and Sideswipe transform, as well as a light purplish-blue [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], who fires twice, opens his cassette door, and tosses out [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]], who transforms and fires upon the three Autobots, who fire back.
:''Narration:'' The Other Guy.
:''Kidmation:'' Bowl haircut kid mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"


[[Image:Powercycle-ad.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Homeland security falls to a kid on a Big Wheel.  You know, it must be said that NSA really is failing here.]]

* '''Transformers [[Power Cycle]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTSuBDZ5T58]

: Advertising a Coleco-made Big Wheel. 
: ''Animation:'' Recycled from the first Transformers commercial, including black helmet Megatron, and some cuts between the live-action and animated footage that has the kid blasting some Autobots.  Oops.
: ''Narration:'' Some wussy dude.
:"Missed! But ''I'' won't!"


* '''[[Family Home Entertainment|F.H.E.]] [[The Transformers (cartoon)|''The Transformers'']] Video Tapes''' [http://www.retrojunk.com/details_commercial/5898/]

: ''Animation:'' Excerpts from "[[More than Meets the Eye (episode)|More than Meets the Eye]]".
: ''Narration:'' The Other Guy
: ''Notes:'' Despite the animation being taken from "More than Meets the Eye", that tape is not actually among those pictured. The pictured tapes are (from left to right): [[Divide and Conquer]], [[Transport to Oblivion]] and [[Roll for It]]. It is stated that the tapes are available on VHS or Beta.
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===1985===

* '''Dinobots''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C7ebWaFaVI]

:''Animation:'' Amid a raging thunderstorm on Earth, [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]], [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] and [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]] take on [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]], [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] and [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]].
:''Narration:'' [[The Other Guy]].
:''Kidmation:'' Buck-toothed kid #3 mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"
:''Notes:'' Soundtracked with a minor variation on the Season One cartoon opening theme: "Dinobots wage their battle to destroy the evil forces of the Decepticons!"
:* '''Dinobots''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaNG6nXmQmU] - A re-soundtracked version of the previous commercial.  Narrated by The Other Guy; soundtracked with the Season 2 theme song (still with "Dinobots" replacing "Autobots".)  Kidmation spot uses the same footage of buck-tooth kid #3, but ''with freaky glowing green eyes'' (and, bizarrely enough, his polo shirt has been recolored from green to blue.)


* '''Grimlock''' [http://www.retrostatic.com/videos/p803_sectionid/13/p803_fileid/483/p803_js_on/1]

: ''Animation:'' Same as Dinobots.
: ''Narration:'' The Other Guy.
: ''Kidmation:'' None.
: ''Notes:'' Very similar to the two [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] commercials, using the same toy scenes (albeit in a different order, and with a different soundtrack) and animation. There are two characteristics, that most Generation 1 commercials share, but this one does not: 

:*There is no Kidmation, but the voice is present in the audio.
:*The ending still shot is not taken in front of the diorama used in the toy segment. Instead a blue backdrop is employed.

:Because of these oddities, it is not clear whether this commercial was a finalized spot or an early/test version. Given the similarites and differences, it is quite likely that this commercial was reworked to create the Dinobots commercials or vice versa.


[[Image:Mini-Spies_Commercial_Symbol_Reveal.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Congratulations, Cliffjumper. It's a Decepticon!"]]
* '''Mini-Spies''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=df5GGZ3we68]

:''Animation:'' [[Huffer (G1)|Huffer]] and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]] allow a yellow [[Mini-spy|Mini-Spy]] to enter Autobot Headquarters.  The little robot starts messing with the computer; Huffer and Cliffjumper come racing in and check his faction symbol.  "It's a Decepticon!  After him!"
:''Narration:'' [[I Wish I Was Victor Caroli]] 
:''Kidmation:'' Kid points urgently at the camera: "It's an Autobot!"
:''Notes:'' [[Casey Kasem]] provides the voice for Cliffjumper's single line.  Visible among the packaged Mini-Bots on the store pegs are a red Bumblebee and a (red) Cliffjumper with a yellow vehicle mode pictured on the package.


* '''Jetfire''' and '''Shockwave''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4et4QzUDno]

:''Animation:'' [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] strafe [[Hound (G1)|Hound]], [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]].  As the three transform and retreat, [[Jetfire (G1)|Jetfire]] steps out of a mountain and takes on the Decepticon jets; [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] transforms halfway and fires, then transforms the rest of the way and fires again.  
: ''Narration:'' An incredibly mellow Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' A grim-faced buck-toothed kid mouths the robotic "Robots in disguise!"
: ''Notes:'' Jetfire here is in his original, toy-based animation model.


* '''Insecticons''' plus '''Swoop''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZWNnzzjm3E]
: ''Animation:'' A horde of [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] attacks a farm.  
: ''Narration:'' The Other Guy.
: ''Kidmation:'' Glowing green eyes kid.
: "Pa, look!" "What is it?" "It's the Insecticons, an evil, new menace in the world of the Transformers!"
:* '''Insecticons''' - Resoundtracked from the previous commercial, with the 1986 version of the background music.


* '''Constructicons/Devastator''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-arvwj7VN8]
:''Animation:'' The [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]], working on a building site in the desert, suddenly transform and combine.  [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]] touches his fists together over his head and is [[Commercial bumper|enveloped with energy]].
: ''Narration:'' The Other Guy.
: ''Kidmation:'' Blond-haired kid mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"  
: "It's Devastator — six ''Constructicons'' in one!"
:* '''Constructicons/Devastator Giftset''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxVdqHn-tOo] - Similar to the previous commercial, but with a few differences. The background music has been changed from the Season 1 intro to the Season 2 intro, a different kid without glowing eyes is used for the Kidmation, and the end is changed to feature the Constructicon Giftset.
:* '''Constructicons/Devastator''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3hzPZ0fdmY] - Resoundtracked and slightly re-edited for a 1986 re-use. Narration by The Other Guy and Megatron; Kidmation segment featuring a kid's face fold-morphing into Ultra Magnus-like generic robot.


* '''Jumpstarters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbKpxHsU5ho&#t=1m59s]
: ''Animation:'' None.  
: ''Toy segment:'' Repeated shots of the [[Jumpstarter]] toys doing their thing on a futuristic smooth black surface (with custom early-80s sound effects), while shaggy-haired kids turn their heads to watch at whiplash-inducing speeds.
: ''Narration:'' [[The Other Guy]]
: ''Kidmation:'' Buck tooth kid mouths "Robots in Disguise"
: ''In the world of the Transformers, no Autobots can jump into battle faster than the Jumpstarters!''


* '''Autobot cars plus Thrust and Dirge''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sxMlvn3Dsw]
:''Animation:'' As [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] fight a battle in the desert, [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]], [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]], [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and [[Grapple]] drive up and transform, prompting Megatron to summon [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] and [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]].  
: ''Narration:'' You're Gonna Get It
: ''Kidmation:'' Beatles haircut kid mouths robotic "Robots in disguise!"
: Included a tail-end ad for Transformers [[Action Cards]].


* '''Triple Changers''' and '''Perceptor''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Crn_8VIxaOk] or [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8LKVfwxoEY]
: ''Animation:'' [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] grapples with Optimus Prime, then escapes on some train tracks.  The Autobots blast a trestle out from under him; he transforms and flies away.  Optimus Prime uses [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]] to examine some Decepticon debris.
:''Narration'': The Other Guy; possibly Victor Caroli as well (While supplies last.)
:''Kidmation'': Taller bowl haircut kid with glowing green eyes.
:''Notes:'' Cameo animation appearances from Sunstreaker, [[Sideswipe (G1)|Sideswipe]], [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]].  Perceptor is portrayed as significantly shorter than Optimus, perhaps the same size as Bumblebee. In one version, a bizarre stinger note labels the Perceptor toy as "While supplies last".
:''Triple changers, the most eeeeevil Decepticons of all!''


[[Image:RumbleBlasterCommercial1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Hey Soundwave, check out this new radio I found!" (actual dialogue)]]

* '''Blaster''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhzQUI3-t_U]
: ''Animation:'' [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] merrily walks into a Decepticon base carrying Blaster in boom box mode; [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] transforms, prompting Soundwave to send Laserbeak and Ravage at him. 
:''Narration'': [[The Other Guy]].
:''Kidmation'': Glowing green eyes kid.
:''Notes:'' Soundwave and Rumble have their usual cartoon voices, but Blaster has a completely different voice for his single word of dialogue. 
: ''Not a working radio!''


* '''Omega Supreme''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbcwV818LuA]
: ''Animation:'' In the desert, Starscream and Thrust attack the new Autobot defense base, not realizing it's [[Omega Supreme (G1)|Omega Supreme]].  Omega transforms and attacks.  Includes [[The Transformers: The Movie]] stinger at the end.
:''Narration:'' I Wish I Was Victor Caroli
:''Kidmation:'' Shaggy haired kid.
:''Notes:'' Starscream and Thrust have their normal cartoon voices. Except for Starscream's last line, "It's Omega Supreme!" which sounds like [[Chris Latta]] inhaled helium.
:"It's the Autobot defense base!"  "But where are the Autobots?" "Who cares? Attack!"
:* '''Omega Supreme''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbKpxHsU5ho&#t=3m25s] - Edited and resoundtracked with Optimus Prime narration, the 1986 theme song and [[The Transformers: The Movie]] stinger.


[[Image:Alex Karras Commercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"I've lowered myself to ''this''?"]]
* '''Prime time spot''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eRDVymB4SU]
: [[Alex Karras]], along with two unidentified boys, calmly promotes the virtues of Perceptor (a working microscope!) and Blitzwing (what a great tank!) and urges you to shop ''now'' if you want one for your kid for Christmas.
: ''Toy segment:'' In addition to Alex and his child assistants demonstrating the toys, footage from the Dinobots commercial is reused.
: ''<s>Kid</s> KARRAS-mation:'' Alex Karras mouths along to the "robots in disguise" line and then continues his spiel without missing a beat. Sadly, his eyes do not glow green. 
: ''Notes:'' This ad aired between [[Halloween]] and Thanksgiving in order to get a head start in promoting the toys for Christmas. Amongst the many boxed Transformers sitting on the table (in various shots) are Blaster, Snarl, Swoop, Soundwave, Ratchet, Megatron, Jazz, Astrotrain, Grimlock, Wheeljack, Jetfire and Optimus Prime. Three Blitzwings, Jetfire, two Perceptors, Optimus Prime, Smokescreen, Red Alert, and Astrotrain are all shown loose.  
: ''These are the Transformers, one of the hottest selling toys in America. If you want one for your kid this Christmas, go now while stores have a good sel-ec-tion.''


* '''[[Rubsign]]s''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYFshTLWNcU#t=1m21s]
:To distinguish real Transformers from [[Knockoff|bootlegs]] and other brands such as [[Tonka GoBots]].  
: "We are conquerors."  "No one is like us."  "Only we have the right to be called by the name."  "Only we have the right to wear this symbol." "Or THIS symbol."  "Only WE are Autobots and Decepticons." "Good versus evil."  "And only WE have the right to be called the Transformers!"  ''Only the Transformers are REAL Transformers!''
: ''Animation:'' A mixture of clips from various 1984 and 1985 commercials.
: ''Narration:'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], Optimus Prime and Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Reused from Autobot cars plus Thrust and Dirge. Same kid is used for the Constructicon giftset commercial, but in a different clip.


* '''Tyco [[Electric Train and Battle Set]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8FgZDtFsAA]
: ''Animation:'' Pseudo Autobots and Decepticons fight it out over the transforming train.

[[Image:Transformers_Tyco_Electric_Racing_Nightglow.jpg|right|200px|thumb|They shouldn't race so close to the nuclear power plant.]]


* '''Tyco Transformers [[Electric Racing Set]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCm5bOiI2R8]
: ''Animation:'' None. 
: ''Toy Segment:'' Shots of the racers speeding along the track in normal lighting and then "into a whole new universe of night-glow" are featured.
: ''Notes:'' Features the same version of the Season 1&2 outro as the train set commercial for background music. This is the only time [[Natron]] and [[Freezon]] are given names.
: "By Tyco, of course."


[[Image:ViewMaster_Projector_Commercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Put your hands in the air!"]]

* '''ViewMaster Showbeam Projector with Transformers cartridge''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t781lHy-CV0]
: A brother and sister talk their mom into letting them stay up to play with the projector. They are then suddenly pulled into the images and the battle they depict. Mom walks back in to see what the ruckus is about, and thus returning them to reality.
: "Let's show the Transformers!" "Yeah!" "Wow!" "Look out! Decept-i-cons!" "Take that Megatron!"


* '''30 second cartoon promo''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUYryiY2_jU] / [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvDyMjWeW2Q]

: ''Animation:'' Various cartoon excerpts which are mostly from Season One episodes. A clip of the Sub-Atlantican General firing at the Autobots from [[Atlantis, Arise!]], which is used in the Monday-Friday collage, is the most notable exception.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, various local TV station announcers.
: ''Notes:'' The Season Two theme is played in the background as Victor Caroli informs us that we can "''Watch the heroic Autobots battle the evil Decepticons five days a week.''" The Caroli narrated segment was sent to the various local TV stations who then added narration and a screen with the station logo and slogan to the end of the spot.  This type of customized promo would continue until [[Armada (franchise)|Transformers]] [[Cartoon Network|left]] terrestrial television.
: ''The Transformers are like nothing you've ever seen before. Don't miss a single day!''


* '''15 second cartoon promo''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGDsr1GqYag]

: ''Animation:'' Various cartoon excerpts from the first two seasons, though mostly Season One.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli and Optimus Prime.
: ''Notes:'' This spot reuses the animation clips from the collage in the previous commercial. However, instead of using them in a collage, a screen flipping transition is used to go from one to the next.  The local station end screen was modified to include a small clip of Optimus Prime standing up. To go along with this, a [[Peter Cullen]] as Optimus Prime narration was added in the format of "Weekdays at [insert time here] on [insert station call letters here]."  Considering there were likely in the neighborhood of 100 or so syndication affiliate stations, that must have been a long day at the office for Mr. Cullen!
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===1986===
[[Image:DiacloneMagnusAnime1.jpg|thumb|200px|"We're the Dandy Highwaymen, and here's our invitation."]]
* '''[[The Transformers: The Movie promo|The Transformers: The Movie promo trailer]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvoAxeykxwc] (Japanese Subtitles)
: Created for the purpose of getting potential investors to buy into the movie, this trailer features LOTS of unfinished or ultimately unused animation. Also features a temp music track featuring cues taken from ''Star Trek III: The Search for Spock''.
:''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]] tells us how awesome the movie will be by giving away some fairly hefty plot spoilers.
:* '''The Transformers: The Movie theatrical trailer''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oh3wgldJxRM]
:: Edited down from the promo trailer and re-soundtracked with some new Victor Caroli narration and proper [[Vince DiCola]] music to be sent out to cinemas.


* '''The Transformers: The Movie theatrical trailer''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaEWLuVJee0] 
: ''Animation:'' Clips from the movie, starting with the Autobot shuttle launching and the Sharkticon guard pulling the feed-them-to-the-Sharkticons lever.  [[The Touch|"The Touch"]] plays across the first half, then [[Lion|Lion's]] rendition of the [[theme song]].
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli introduces the characters and expounds on how great the movie is.
: ''Hold on tight.  The most incredible rock and roll adventure ever is here!''


* '''The Transformers: The Movie TV spots''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yvy218PYh3A],[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEtsCBHjua0]

: ''Animation:'' Similar to the trailer with Autobot shuttle launch at the beginning, then switches back and forth between the [[Autobot City]] battle, [[Unicron]] devouring [[Lithone (planet)|Lithone]] and [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] vs. the Decepticons. Again, "The Touch" plays for the first half, then Lion's rendition of the theme song.
: ''Narration:'' Depending on the version, Victor Caroli, The Other Movie Guy, or both.
: ''Notes:'' Several different versions of the TV spot were produced, updating the amount of time to go until the movie's release. The known variations are: "August 8th" (60 & 30 seconds),  "Opens Tomorrow" (60 & 30 seconds), "Now playing!"(60 & 30 seconds), "Opens in Three Days" (30 sec #1), and "Opens in Three Days" (30 sec #2). The first 6 versions can be found as part of the extras on [[Sony]]'s 20th Anniversary Edition DVD, while the other two are linked to above.
: ''So exciting you'll have to see it twice to take it all in!'' 


* '''Hot Rod''', '''Kup''', and '''Blurr'''; '''Cyclonus''' and '''Scourge'''; and '''Rrrrrodimus Prime'''. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tdf8Q14scM]

: ''Animation:'' A running battle in the desert with each character charging in as the narrator identifies him.   
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face.  
: ''Notes'': Cameos by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]], making this bit of animation yet another one of the pre-TF:TM ancillary stories that contradicts the movie itself. Additionally features an older Hot Rod animation model placing his Autobot symbol above his fire emblem, as it also appears in the movie promo trailer.
: '''''No one''' can take on the Decepticons like Rrrrrodimus Prime!''


* '''Ultra Magnus''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYFshTLWNcU#t=1m51s]

: ''Animation:'' Decepticons are attacking the Autobot launch site.  With Optimus on Cybertron, it's up to [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]!  Magnus loads up some 'bots in Autobot City, then rolls out into the desert to fight the Decepticons, plowing through the Combaticons en route. 
: ''Narration:'' Optimus Prime; Victor Caroli (Each sold separately.)
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.
: ''Notes:'' [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]] and Magnus both have their normal cartoon voices.  Cameo appearances by Starscream, Skywarp, [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]; [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]], [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]; [[Onslaught (G1)|Onslaught]], [[Swindle (G1)|Swindle]], [[Brawl (G1)|Brawl]]; [[Tracks (G1)|Tracks]].


* '''Ultra Magnus''' and '''Galvatron''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUNUWzKbdyY]

: ''Animation:'' Magnus and [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], along with others, do battle on a highway. Starscream and Skywarp can be glimpsed flying into battle alongside Galvatron! 
: ''Narration:'' [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]].
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face.  
: ''Notes:'' Cameos by Jazz, Red Alert, Smokescreen, Tracks (could this be in continuity with the previous commercial?!); Skywarp and Starscream.  Galvatron's voice appears to be Frank Welker doing a less-gravely Megatron-like voice.
: Includes tail-end ad for ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', narration by The Other Movie Guy. ''Does Prime die?!''


[[Image:SpringerWreckGarCommercial1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|It sorta happened like this in the movie.  A little.]]
* '''Springer''' and '''Wreck-Gar''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kEalmPOL0Gs]

: ''Animation:'' Original animation, but the plot draws heavily from ''The Transformers: The Movie''. [[Springer (G1)|Springer's]] shuttle is destroyed by the ''[[Revenge (G1)|Revenge]]''; he flies to the surface of [[Junkion (planet)|Junkion]] and battles [[Wreck-Gar (G1)|Wreck-Gar]] and another Junkion. 
: ''Narration:'' Optimus Prime describes Springer; Megatron gleefully describes Wreck-Gar as though he were a Decepticon; [[Victor Caroli]] (Each sold separately.) 
: ''Notes:'' Wreck-Gar's is voiced by [[Frank Welker]] for this commercial, not sounding particularly distinct from Megatron; his lines are directly copied from the movie.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.  


* '''Sharkticons''', '''Kup''', '''Hot Rod''' and '''Wheelie''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGKZ3qhYKvA]

: ''Animation:'' Like the previous commercial, heavily based on the movie. Hot Rod and Kup battle a group of [[Sharkticon (G1)|Sharkticons]], and [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]] (sounding like Scrappy-Doo) arrives to help.
: ''Narration:'' Prime and Megatron; Victor Caroli (Sold separately).
:''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face.
: ''Autobots never faced an evil force worse than the terror of - the Sharkticons!'' 


* '''Aerialbots''' and '''Stunticons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdA_0PXT1fQ]

: ''Animation:'' The two teams both arrive in the desert and transform; both combine, and [[Superion (G1)|Superion]] bashes [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]] into a cliff. Menasor's legs are on backwards.  
: ''Narration:'' Optimus and Megatron.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.
: "Only the Stunticons!"  ...only the Stunticons ''what?''


* '''Combaticons/Bruticus''' and '''Metroplex''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCVd2XgbUtw]

: ''Animation:'' The [[Combaticon (G1)|Combaticons]] fly through a canyon, combine, and attack [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]], who transforms to his enormous robot mode and fires at them. 
:''Narration:'' Megatron, Optimus Prime; Victor Caroli (From Hasbro.)
:''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face.
: "But the ''Combaticons'' can combine to form ''Bruticus!''"


* '''Protectobots/Defensor''' and '''Trypticon''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EF-Xno8KJno]

: ''Animation:'' The Protectobots drive down a road towards the Decepticons' massive new base, transform and attack.  [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]'s voice commands the base to transform into battle station mode; the [[Protectobot (G1)|Protectobots]] become [[Defensor (G1)|Defensor]] and fire back.  [[Trypticon (G1)|Trypticon]] changes to dinosaur mode and blasts fire-breath at Defensor.
: ''Narration:'' [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] and [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]; [[Victor Caroli]] (Batteries not included.)
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face.
: ''Notes:'' Trypticon is voiced by [[Jack Angel]] for this commercial.
: ''Toy segment:'' Two kids playing with the toys are ''very'' affected by the sight of toy Trypticon knocking over Defensor.


* '''Predacons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPOpI_fGoyo]

: ''Animation:'' The [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] barrel over Skywarp, [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] and Starscream; the [[Predacon (G1)|Predacons]] charge in to counter the Dinobots, transforming into robot mode and then combining into [[Predaking]].
: ''Narration:'' Megatron; Victor Caroli (Each sold separately.)
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.   
: ''Notes:'' [[Snarl (G1)|Snarl]] is missing from the animated Dinobots. He was also missing from previous commercials featuring the Dinobots.
: "Few Decepticons can stand up to the Dinobots, but the Predacons can!"


* '''Sky Lynx''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQXPiKZ0hNk]

: ''Animation:'' Predaking smashes through a mountain to attack the Dinobots.  [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] thinks they're in trouble, but then [[Sky Lynx (G1)|Sky Lynx]] swoops in to save the day.
:''Narration:'' Optimus Prime; Victor Caroli (Batteries not included.)
:''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.
:''Notes:'' Like the Magnus commercials, this one could actually be in continuity with the Predacon commercial, which ended with the Predacons combining.  [[Slag (G1)|Slag]] and Grimlock both have their cartoon voices (well, the higher-pitched voice that Slag had in Season 3.)  


* '''Triple Changers''' - '''Sandstorm''', '''Broadside''' and '''Octane''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRj3Xo8wqiM]

: ''Animation:'' [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]] and Astrotrain attack [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Warpath (G1)|Warpath]]; [[Sandstorm (G1)|Sandstorm]] and [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] change repeatedly as they travel over land and water.  
:''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]]
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face.
:''Autobot - triple changers battling - the triple changers of - the Decepticons!''


[[Image:Patches g1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Spike, if you don't put the patch on your skin, you won't get the nicotine.]]
[[Image:LiveActionJazz-Skywarp01.jpg|right|200px|thumb|This socially awkward scene could be all yours!]]
* '''Battlechargers''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXkHp9J51do#t=3m53s]

: ''Animation:'' Amid a field of erupting volcanoes, Ultra Magnus and his usual team of Autobots (Jazz, Smokescreen, Red Alert and Tracks) transform and march forward in lock-step, prompting Megatron to order the Battlechargers to attack.   [[Runabout]] and [[Runamuck (G1)|Runamuck]] drive off a cliff; Runabout transforms and fires. 
: ''Narration:'' Megatron; Victor Caroli (Each sold separately.)
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to Galvatron face. 
: ''Toy segment:'' The toy portion also features repeated cuts of a kid's head/eyes following the rolling [[Battlecharger]] toys.  
: ''Nobody jumps into action - faster than - Battlechargers!'' 


* '''[[Prizes in Disguise]] contest/[[Iron-on patch|reflective patches]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UUwi2uSUQE]

: ''Animation:'' Jazz and Cosmos shine their headlights to reveal that a group of humans are wearing Transformers reflective patches, thus gaining entry to the Autobot base.  
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid face to generic Magnus face; also, a kid saying "Robots in Disguise" through the Voice Changer.
: ''Notes:'' Standard cartoon voices for [[Spike Witwicky (G1)|Spike]], Jazz and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]. Background cameos by Tracks and Smokescreen.
: ''You could win a party with life-sized Transformers!''


* '''[[Underoos]]''' [http://www.retrostatic.com/videos/p803_sectionid/6/p803_fileid/398/p803_js_on/1]

: ''Kidmation:'' Three different kids turn into animated versions of the lead good guy from the toyline that corresponds to their underwear while growling that line's catchphrase and the name of the good guy. The last of the three is Freddy, who pulls on his Transformers Underoos and turns into Optimus Prime while growling "MORE than meets the eye! The Transformers!".
: ''Notes:'' The animation model used for Optimus Prime has design simplifications which make it very similar to the animation model used in the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|actual cartoons]]. The coloring of the model however, is based off Prime's [[package art]]. It oddly deviates by coloring the upper legs blue, and having a white line just under his forehead crest.
: "Freddy, what are you doing up there?"


* '''30 second cartoon promo''' [http://www.retrojunk.com/details_commercial/4290/]
: ''Animation:'' Various Season One and Two excerpts.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, various local TV station announcers. 
: ''Notes:'' In addition to the customized end tag, a text overlay in that station's style was placed over several scenes early in the spot. Uses the Season 3/Season 4 theme.  Three different Megatron quotes are used.
: "We'll be waiting!"


* '''30 second cartoon promo #2''' [http://www.retrojunk.com/details_commercial/2986/]
: ''Animation:'' Various Season Two excerpts.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, various local TV station announcers.
: ''Notes:'' Uses Season Three/Season Four theme.
:''It's the incredible adventures of the Transformers. Watch as Heroic Autobots bravely battle Evil Decepticons every Monday through Friday. Don't miss a single day!''

===1987===
Many of the live-action segments for the 1987 toy commercials showed kids playing with the toys in a rocky, doom-laden environment, replete with constant flashes of lightning illuminating the toys. It is possible this is meant to be [[Nebulos]], given the way that planet is portrayed in the animated segments.


[[Image:Brainstormpretenderscommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Let's search that planet, Magnus!  We've got to find them! With their help, we can defeat the Decepticons!"  Keep hoping, Rodimus.  Keep hoping.]]
* '''Headmasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__QTNCp5RhI]

: ''Animation:'' The four Autobot [[Headmaster (technology)|Headmaster]] [[Nebulos|Nebulans]] climb into their respective partners, who are parked in vehicle mode in a base; they roll out and clash with the three Headmaster Decepticons.  Includes particularly nice closeups of [[Monzo]] and [[Stylor]].
: ''Narration:'' [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus]] and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] narrate.  (well, Rodimus actually spews out a series of basically incomprehensible lines.) 
: ''Kidmation:'' A kid leaps and flips, turning into a stop-motion version of Ultra Magnus's toy. 
: ''Head. MasterTransformers—more muchmore than meets the eyes!'' {{sic}}


* '''Decepticon Headmasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ6FtUb-WQo]

: ''Animation:'' At the secret base of the Headmaster Decepticons, the "trainers" are putting [[Skullcruncher]], [[Weirdwolf]] and [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] through their paces, having them jump through hoops and smash through rock statues of the Autobot Headmasters.  Yes, the "trainer" concept actually made it into animation.  They even carry whips!
: ''Narration:'' [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid to stop-motion Magnus toy. 
: ''Nothing's better than going into battle with '''these''' Transformers!''


* '''Headmaster Horrorcons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gr4iHCbkRWw]

: ''Animation:'' [[Apeface]] and [[Snapdragon]] fly into a canyon and transform to robot mode, then change to beast mode and charge, spewing fire and swinging rocks around.
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Extreme closeup of a kid's eye, with a camera pull-out emerging from the pupil.
: ''The jaws of the beast become the pilot of the plane, and the pilot of the plane becomes the head of the robot!''


* '''Targetmasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugF7cyTOuro]

: ''Animation:'' Live-action set of a rocky planet explodes.  Cel: on Cybertron(?), [[Crosshairs (G1)|Crosshairs]] and [[Sureshot (G1)|Sureshot]] get strafed by [[Triggerhappy]], who transforms and grapples with Sureshot, while their guns do the same.  Crosshairs drives forward; he and [[Pinpointer (G1)|Pinpointer]] transform and run, then both get tackled by [[Misfire]] and [[Aimless]]. 
: ''Narration:'' Galvatron, Ultra Magnus, and Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid flips and becomes stop-motion Ultra Magnus toy.
: ''Two Trans-for-mers, all in one!  The vehicle transforms and so does the gun!''


* '''Sixshot''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sZz2xhptRc]

: ''Animation:'' Rodimus Prime and Galvatron lead their teams in battle; [[Sixshot]] attacks and runs through his various modes, as Galvatron describes them and [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] counts them off. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Notes:'' Cameos by [[Kup (G1)|Kup]], [[Wheelie (G1)|Wheelie]], [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]], [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]].  Galvatron has his usual cartoon voice, but Cyclonus does not.  A deeper version of the substitute Cyclonus voice is also used for Sixshot. Also, atypically for animators Toei, Cyclonus' earlier pre-production character model as most often seen in AKOM-animated episodes is used.
: ''The most challenging Transformer of them all!''


[[Image:Technobots.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Hi-Tech Sentai Nerdranger]]
[[Image:Computron animated.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Revenge of the nerds!]]
* '''Technobots/Computron''' and '''Scorponok''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mc28D8K--o]

: ''Animation:'' Galvatron runs down a ramp as [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] transforms from base to scorpion to repulse the [[Technobot (G1)|Technobots]]; the Technobots combine, and get hit with a rock thrown by Scorponok.
: ''Narration:'' Galvatron, [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Notes:'' Naturally, [[Zarak (Nebulan)|Zarak]] is visible running around as Scorponok transforms.
: ''And now it's a beast with capture claws and a trainer who becomes...the HEAD of its robot!''


* '''Technobots''' and '''Terrorcons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFxkWQHHBJY]

: ''Animation:'' The two teams battle on Earth, while Rodimus and Magnus narrate. 
: ''Narration:'' Ultra Magnus, Rodimus Prime, and Victor Caroli.  
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid to stop-motion Ultra Magnus.
: ''Notes:'' Includes [[decoy]] stinger.
: "Those hi-tech heroes are in for one horrific battle!"


* '''Punch/Counterpunch''' and '''Clones''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ1T_jL6oF4]

: ''Animation:'' [[Punch (G1)|Punch]] informs Rodimus that he can trust him, transforms to car mode, rolls out of the base and promptly transforms to Counterpunch and tells the waiting Galvatron that he can trust ''him''. The Decepticon [[Clone (subgroup)|Clones]] run through a rocky landscape in perfect step and open fire on the Autobot clones, then both groups transform. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid to stop-motion Ultra Magnus.
: ''Notes:'' Cameos by [[Bumblebee (G1)|Goldbug]] and Cyclonus. Includes [[decoy]] ending.


* '''Monsterbots''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9SdN-zvZpYo]

: ''Animation:'' Blurr and Rodimus Prime arrive; Kup tells them that there's been an accident, and the new Autobots are monsters!  The [[Monsterbots]] trash a lab, then burst through a wall and fight some Decepticons.  
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid to stop-motion Ultra Magnus.
: ''Notes:'' Cameos by Scourge, [[Octane]], and Cyclonus.
: ''And they've even got sparks, BLASTING out of them!''


[[Image:Weirdwolfweirdhead.jpg|right|200px|thumb|I think pulling my head off is a pretty good idear.]]
[[Image:Brainstormweirdhead.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Brainstorm was actually pretty happy to get rid of his bizarre zombie vampire head.]]
* '''Duocons/Throttlebots''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXkHp9J51do#t=1m53s]

: ''Animation:'' [[Flywheels|Flywheels’s]] jet portion swoops down out of the sky and links up with his tank, transforming to robot mode before being jumped on by Rodimus Prime.  "That jet is going to crash into that tank!" "No, it's not. They're going to transform into one robot!"
: ''Narration:'' Galvatron, Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid to stop-motion Ultra Magnus.
: ''Notes:'' Includes decoy stinger.
: ''They think they’re twice as tough as any Autobot—and MAYBE THEY ARE.''


* '''Fortress Maximus''' "FOR-TRESS MAX-I-MUHUUUS!" [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9c6qIgMbRvc]

: ''Animation:'' [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]] transforms to base mode and blows away the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]], who combine into [[Abominus (G1)|Abominus]] and attack him.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, Rodimus Prime, Ultra Magnus.


* '''''[[Headmasters (comic)|Headmasters]]''' comic book'' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiBfxykv5go]

: ''Animation:'' The post-Movie Autobots and Decepticons shoot it out on Cybertron: Galvatron and Scourge fire on Blurr and Rodimus; [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] grapples with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]; Ultra Magnus...stands there.  Two teams "blast" their way to Nebulos.  The Autobots detach their heads, which are replaced by "the intelligent Nebulons".  The Decepticons do the same.  Scorponok and Fortress Maximus slug it out; the [[Targetmasters]] charge at each other and transform.  
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Notes:'' Features completely random, made-up heads for the pre-Headmaster robots.


* '''The Return of Optimus Prime promo''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjHBeeQAZyU]
: ''Animation:'' Excerpts of the Optimus Prime death scene and Prime vs. Megatron from The Transformers: The Movie.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli and various local TV announcers.
: ''Notes:'' Features Unicron's Theme as the background music. Many TV stations shrank or otherwise manipulated it at the end, but New York's WPIX simply overlaid a graphic on the bottom saying, with a red line between them, "4:30 PM" on top, and "Tues. & Wed." on the bottom, with their classic "Circle 11" logo on the far right.
:"It's over Prime." "Never!" ''Hang on, Autobots, it's not over! Optimus Prime returns, February 24th and 25th on ''The Transformers''.''
:*'''Optimus Prime week''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgbmYGDbjkw] – Same as above commercial but re-narrated with the removal of "Never!" and changed to speak of a whole Optimus Prime week.
::"It's over Prime." ''Wrong, Megatron! It's just the beginning!''


*'''Season 4 cartoon promo''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kja8RSRq21g]
: ''Animation:'' A set of excerpts from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'' almost identical to those used for the Return of Optimus Prime and Optimus Prime week spots.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, trying to exclaim every line more dramatically than the last and various local TV station announcers.
: ''Notes:'' Features a brand new piece of background music incorporating the Transformers theme. Similar in sound to the music [[Vince DiCola]] composed for The Transformers: The Movie.
:''Autobots versus Decepticons. Good against evil. Metal against metal!''


[[Image:G1 Season 4 promo.jpg|right|200px|thumb]]
*'''Season 4 cartoon promo #2''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0T1CpeK-XRQ]

: ''Animation:'' Excerpts from ''The Transformers: The Movie'' and several 1987 toy commercials/the Season 3 [[title sequence]]. A scene from the movie of Hot Rod and Kup watching Decepticon missiles come back towards their shuttle has the view from the shuttle's “windshield” replaced with crude CGI to make it look like they're flying through a...a...well, we're not really sure what it's supposed to be. It kind of looks like a base, though it has both Autobot and Decepticon logos in different areas.  A shot of a crude CGI Optimus Prime closes out the commercial.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, various local TV station announcers.
: ''Notes:'' Features the same new music used in the previous commercial.
:''They're more, much more than you've ever imagined! The Transformers. Watch as the battle between the Autobots and Decepticons reaches an incredible new level.''

===1988===
Many of the 1988 commercials began with a still shot of several animation frames, arranged as if in a comic book.  The camera would zoom in on one as the animation began.

* '''Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GpTjkDrJkU]

: ''Animation:'' [[Brainstorm]] and [[Highbrow (G1)|Highbrow]] battle [[Mindwipe (G1)|Mindwipe]] and [[Weirdwolf]].  Three Autobot [[Pretenders]] are created (nekkid!). [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] and [[Darkwing]] attack and the armored Pretenders split to reveal their robots, forcing the Decepticons to flee. The Decepticon Pretenders burst through the wall and both groups split.
:''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]]. 
:''Notes:'' Features only the first wave of large Pretenders ([[Landmine (G1)|Landmine]], [[Cloudburst]], [[Waverider]]; [[Skullgrin]], [[Submarauder (G1)|Submarauder]] and [[Bomb-Burst]].) 
:''After a series of startling defeats at the hands of the Decepticons...''
:* '''Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eA8RwvAm7s]
: ''Animation:'' The Autobot Pretenders splitting, re-used from the above commercial. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' A bizarre segment of kids proclaiming what they "are" ("I’m a video gamer!"  "I’m a skateboarder!"), only for the skateboarder to split Pretender-style, revealing a generic CGI robot who announces "I’m a Transformer!"
::* '''Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OfIYC1FC3Y] - Edited down version of the immediately preceding commercial.
:* '''Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pL0uRBKRHa8]
: ''Animation:'' The Autobot Pretenders splitting, same as the above commercials.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid's face splits apart to reveal his 'inner' robot face.


* '''Pretenders''' [http://www.bigbot.com/mp3/preten.mp3] (Audio track)
: ''Animation:''
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli 
: Includes tail-end spot for the relevant [[Pretender to the Throne!|Marvel Comics issue]].


[[Image:Slapdashcommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Why are you here, again?]]
* '''Powermasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEAjoH_EEtY]

: ''Animation:'' amid desert canyons, the various Powermaster partners transform to engine form and combine with their partners, including [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] transforming his trailer to base mode. This is followed by the Autobot [[Powermasters]] shooting at Darkwing and Dreadwind who, now that they've accomplished their [[To sell toys|goal]], are once again in their plane modes.
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:''Notes:'' Features [[Getaway]] / [[Rev]], [[Slapdash]] / [[Lube]], and [[Joyride (Autobot)|Joyride]] / [[Hotwire]]; [[Darkwing]] / [[Throttle (G1)|Throttle]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]] / [[Hi-Test]]; and [[Hi-Q]].   Includes tail-end ads spot for the relevant [[People Power!|Marvel Comics issue]]. 
: ''Their engine’s the key that unlocks their Transformer en-er-geeee!''


[[Image:HiQCommercial1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Truck?  What truck?]]

* '''Powermaster toys''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo2gEIZMSeE]

: ''Animation:'' Dreadwind and Darkwing chase Getaway and Joyride around the rim of a crater. Dreadwind and Darkwing transform.  Includes segments recycled from the first Powermaster commercial.
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Kidmation:'' A kid crackles with energy, which surrounds and replaces his head with a ''very'', and we mean ''very'', crude CGI Powermaster Optimus Prime head.
: ''Powermaster Transformers! They've got the power to surprise!''


* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ahamtdTLDY#t=0m59s]

: ''Animation:'' Recycled footage of Prime transforming from the Powermasters commercial; Powermaster Optimus Prime firing [[Quickswitch]].
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:''Kidmation:'' Kid to Powermaster Optimus Prime.
: ''POW-er-master Optimus Prime!  Greatest hero of his time!''  ("It's great to be back!")
:* '''Powermaster Optimus Prime''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f-0UF_NBgs] - edited down from the previous commercial.


*'''Powermaster Prime''' and '''Doubledealer''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjCqcOAQPq0]

: ''Animation:'' Footage of Prime reused from other commercials featuring him, then a new segment with [[Doubledealer]] in robot mode standing with Prime. Doubledealer transforms to vehicle mode, then [[Skar]] flies out of [[Piranacon (G1)|Piranacon]]'s hand and locks into place, transforming Doubledealer to falcon mode. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: "Who’s that new Transformer with Optimus Prime?"

[[Image:NightbeatTV.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Look at my chest.]]
[[Image:Fangrycommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|HOOKA chaka HOOKA chaka HOOKA HOOKA HOOKA chaka]]


* '''Small Headmasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hf-MDd7cdi0]

: ''Animation:'' The small Autobot Headmasters ([[Nightbeat (G1)|Nightbeat]], [[Siren]], [[Hosehead]]) drive on a rocky world; Nightbeat and [[Muzzle]] transform.  The small Decepticon Headmasters burst through a wall in beast mode; [[Fangry]] and [[Brisko]] transform.  
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli, and [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], who's obviously never met Fangry, [[Squeezeplay]] or [[Horri-Bull]]: "Our new Decepticon Headmasters will give us more brainpower than ever!"  
: ''Kidmation:'' A kid flips through the air, converting to a robot and folding up to become the head of a larger (stop motion?) robot resembling Brainstorm. 
: ''And when the '''head''' enters the robot's body you get a '''readout''' of its power!''


[[Image:Snarlercommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|If it's a Beast War you want...]]
* '''Pretender Beasts/Pretender Vehicles''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdgmccNpuqM]

: ''Animation:'' [[Snarler]] and [[Chainclaw (G1)|Chainclaw]] battle in beast mode... then... are suddenly in their shells... and then come out of their shells...? [[Gunrunner (G1)|Gunrunner]] emerges from his vehicle and transforms to jet mode; [[Roadgrabber]] emerges and transforms his vehicle to battle mode, opening fire on the flying Gunrunner. 
:''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:''Kidmation:'' Pretender Kid.
:''Now, in the world of Pretenders, there are Pretender Beasts; Strange and terrifying.''


* '''Quickswitch'''. "It's Quickswitch, Sixshot's son!  And he's on our side!" [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDgSnwgp0NQ]

: ''Animation:'' In the midst of a moon battle, Getaway spots [[Quickswitch]] incoming and mistakes him for a Decepticon, urging the others to destroy him, until someone says he's an Autobot.  Quickswitch runs through his modes, beating up Horri-Bull and [[Snaptrap (G1)|Snaptrap]], then goes to gun mode and lands in Powermaster Optimus Prime's hand.   
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Kidmation:'' A kid holding the toy mouths a synthesized "How quick can you all six" [''sic''], while his head flops around disturbingly.
: ''Determined to make good where his Decepticon father went bad, Quickswitch joins the Autobots!''


* '''Double Targetmasters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCfnJpHFRuc]

: ''Animation:'' [[Spinister (G1)|Spinister]] and [[Needlenose]] chase the Autobot small Targetmaster Nebulans (most prominently [[Boomer]] and [[Ricochet (Nebulan)|Ricochet]]) across a rocky landscape.  The Nebulans transform to gun modes and link up with their vehicle-mode Autobot partners, [[Quickmix (G1)|Quickmix]], [[Landfill (G1)|Landfill]] and [[Scoop (G1)|Scoop]], who then transform and fire. [[Holepunch (G1)|Holepunch]] and [[Tracer (Nebulan)|Tracer]] fly out of Scoop's hand and combine into their double weapon form. Scoop fires at a strafing Spinister and Needlenose, who transform, land and charge into battle.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid flips over and turns into a gun for a very crude CGI robot.  
: ''Targetmaster Transformers—theeeeeey've got the power to surprise!''


[[Image:FireconCommercial1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Now auditioning for Gamera vs. The Firecons]]
* '''Firecons/Sparkabots'''

: ''Animation:''
: ''Narration:''
: ''Kidmation:''


* '''Triggerbots/Triggercons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xBLVLIKprA]

: ''Animation:'' Recycled Dreadwind and Darkwing chasing Getaway and Joyride, from the Powermasters commercial.  
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''And when the Triggerbots battle the Triggercons, there's no doubt there'll be a real shoot-out!'' KERRUNCH.


[[Image:PiranaconCommercial1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Sadly, Dreamwave never learned that what works in animation doesn't always go over so well as a still image.]]
* '''Seacons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwyf28trZhg]

: ''Animation:'' Beneath the ocean, the beast-mode [[Seacon (G1)|Seacons]] take bites out of a submarine.  Piranacon switches out his left arm and gun.
: ''Narration:'' Unknown.
: ''Kidmation:'' A kid leaps over the top of a generic stop-animated robot and transforms into his gun, which he fires.
:* '''Seacons / Sparkabots / Firecons''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MOFXjDTJ50#t=1m33s]
: Portions of the Seacon commercial with a Sparkabots/Firecons segment at the end.
:''Animation:'' The [[Firecon|Firecons]] march forward in beast mode, spewing flames; the [[Sparkabots]] drive forward and transform; the Firecons transform and grapple with the Sparkabots ([[Cindersaur]] vs. [[Sizzle (G1)|Sizzle]] being most prominent.)
:* '''Seacons / Triggerbots / Trigggercons''' - Same as previous with the Triggerbots/Triggercons segment in place of the Firecons/Sparkabots.

===1989===
* '''Micromaster Patrols''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GKXFzYvLGU]

: ''Animation:'' From Optimus Prime's glowing fist, the [[Sports Car Patrol]] and [[Off Road Patrol]] charge forth.  They infiltrate a Decepticon base, driving right past Piranacon, [[Darkwing]] and [[Dreadwind (G1)|Dreadwind]], who wonder why they don't have those things.  Then the Micromasters swarm around Dreadwind's head.  In stop motion, a stream of [[Micromaster]] toys topples a gray-painted [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]].
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Kidmation:'' Kid scoops up the Micromasters and opens his palm to show them off.
: ''Notes:'' Dreadwind and Darkwing are given voices.
: "Our new commandos, who go where no one else goes!"


[[Image:Destronsoldier micromasters.jpg|right|200px|thumb|""]]
* '''Micromaster transports and battle stations''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2sGiQPOSxs] or [http://www.retrojunk.com/details_commercial/5542/]

: ''Animation:''  A horde of Micromasters swarms over an attacking [[Giant Decepticon Soldier]]; Prime opens his palm to reveal a Micromaster city; [[Red Hot]] transforms and flies at the camera.  Stop-motion spots show a fleet of Micromaster vehicles driving around the combined playsets.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Notes:'' Includes stinger for a $1.00 copy of the [[The Transformers: The Movie|movie]] when you buy two Transformers toys.
: "The most incredible Micros of all!  They're not just small; they're ''Tranzzforrrmerrzzz''!"
:* '''Micromaster battle stations''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9qABpn1U5s] - edited down from the previous commercial. 
: "The ''only'' Micros that transform!"  
:* '''Micromaster transports''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bU0ApqagpFk] - edited down from the previous commercial.


[[Image:Micromasterbasescommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Bumblebee, you fool!]]
[[Image:SkystalkerCommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Go ahead. Make my day.]]

* '''Micromaster micro bases''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lQjziUSVME]

: ''Animation:'' [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] and [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] drag two captured Decepticon vehicles (the [[Interstellar shuttle]] and the [[Helicopter]]) up to Optimus Prime in an Autobot base, only to have them transform and attack, with the guns manned by the [[Sports Car Patrol]] and [[Skystalker (G1)|Skystalker]].
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Notes:'' Bumblebee has his [[Dan Gilvezan|normal voice]]. An unidentified voice presumably belongs to Skystalker.
: ''You can connect them to form whole cities!''
:* '''Micromaster micro bases''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9APg4jM3KJI] - edited down from the previous commercial.


* '''Classic Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecehJWexUaE] or [http://www.retrojunk.com/details_commercial/5541/]

: ''Animation:'' As Prime transforms and comes under attack in a nighttime city, the Autobot Pretenders arrive to help out. 
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Notes:'' [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]] is voiced by his regular actor. Includes stinger for a $1.00 copy of the movie when you buy two Transformers toys.
: "Bumblebee, Jazz, you're back!" "And me Grimlock!" ''And the '''eeeevil''' Starscream is here too!''
:* '''Classic Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSi6ZVZe0no] - edited down from the previous commercial. 


* '''Mega and Ultra Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4Vz63YmywM]

: ''Animation:'' [[Crossblades (G1)|Crossblades]] and [[Vroom]] slowly drift out of their shells and transform; [[Roadblock (G1)|Roadblock]] avoids a strafing run from [[Skyhammer (G1)|Skyhammer]], then his two robot forms both pop out of his vehicle shell and fire.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: "Who's more than they pretend to be? Mega Pretender Transformers, Mega Pretenders!"
:* '''Mega Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBmplIUYCms] - edited down from the previous commercial. 
:: "Inside one, there's the other; then they both transform and combine to form another!" 
:* '''Ultra Pretenders''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsgfEOamaMw] - edited down from the previous commercial. 


[[Image:Pretendermonstercommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Decades later, their [[Pretender_Monster#Toys|melting shells]] let you re-enact this scene.]]
* '''[[Pretender Monster|Pretender Monsters]]''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQRzQIXQkTU]

: ''Animation:'' [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] dunks [[Wildfly]], [[Icepick (G1)|Icepick]] and [[Scowl]] into colorful vats; they and the others emerge as Pretenders and charge at the camera. "BEYOND! (beyond) anything you've EVER SEEN before:  Transformers Monster Pretenders!" 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: '''''Now''', the Decepticons have '''Monster Pretenders'''. Monster Pretenders with '''rubbery skin!'''''

===1990===
[[Image:Sprocketoverruncommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Sure, Prime, I'll give up the alternate mode that I never had."]]
[[Image:GutcruncherG1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Estroy them!"  Actual dialogue.  We're not making this up.]]
The Action Master commercials began and ended with a metal fist bursting through a wall, with "ACTION MASTERS" emblazoned across its knuckles. Some of the animation was screened against real-world backgrounds, with poorly animated characters morphing into the real toys.


* '''Action Masters''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeNf3jQ1zdw]

: ''Animation:'' Inside a base, [[Optimus Prime (G1)| Optimus Prime]] invites a circle of Autobots ([[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Wheeljack (G1)|Wheeljack]], [[Rad (G1)|Rad]], [[Over-Run (G1)|Over-Run]] and [[Sprocket (G1)|Sprocket]]) to join him. Prime, Jazz and Rad dash before the animation morphs to show their respective toys. [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], [[Treadshot (G1)|Treadshot]] and [[Krok (G1)|Krok]] blast through a wall before they too morph from animation to toys. 
: ''Narration:'' [[Victor Caroli]].
: ''Notes:'' Jazz is voiced by a sound-alike, [[Scatman Crothers]] having passed away. Rad is given a voice by [[Michael Bell]].
: "Who will give up the power to transform to become stronger faster more alive?" [''sic'']


* '''Action Master vehicles — Starscream, Prowl''', and '''Overrun''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMn36VbUamU]

: ''Animation:'' A short battle sequence (on Cybertron?) with the three featured characters. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''And '''look!''' The Action Master vehicles transform into powerful '''battle stations!'''''


* '''Action Master vehicles — Wheeljack, Sprocket''', and '''Gutcruncher''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_zEQL5qoSs] 

: ''Animation:'' [[Gutcruncher (G1)|Gutcruncher]] takes to the sky in the [[Stratotronic Jet|Stratojet]]; Wheeljack and Sprocket drive out of a tunnel. 
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
: ''Notes:'' Gutcruncher speaks!
: "Estroy them!" [again, ''sic'']
:* '''Action Master vehicles''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldTBFhVOeyA] - Edited down from the previous commercial. 

[[Image:Hotrodpatrolcommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Micromasters melt in your mouth, not in your hand.]]
[[Image:Bigdaddycommercial.jpg|right|200px|thumb|Hey, daddy-o, where's the drive thru at?]]


* '''Hot Rod Patrol''' and '''Construction Patrol''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BULkif6vEsA]

: ''Animation:'' Cel: Jazz and Prime pick up the Hot Rod Patrol and examine them. Stop-motion toys: The Construction Patrol destroys a bridge, making Scorponok fall into a ravine.  Rawr!
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:* '''Hot Rod Patrol / Construction Patrol''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAGdONYuMxQ] - Abbreviated (and accelerated) version of the previous commercial. [[Neil Ross]] jibbers his lines at hilariously high speed: "Micromasterconstructionpatroldestroythebridge!"


* '''Micromaster Combiners/Combiner Transports''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NHa_xEPCCA]

: ''Animation:'' Megatron grabs at a couple of combiner vehicles ([[Roadburner]]/[[Wheel Blaze]] and [[Missile Master]]/[[Moonrock]]), only to have them split apart, reconnect, and shoot him in the face.  [[Cement-Head]] and [[Terror-Tread]], along with their transport, transform from vehicle to robot/base. 
:''Notes:'' A rather wussy Frank Welker soundalike voices [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]; Neil Ross voices the indeterminable Micromaster. Roadburner somehow fires a laser from the short end of his cherry picker crane.
: ''Narration:'' Victor Caroli.
:* '''Micromaster Combiners''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4c2GiO-8D4#t=7m02s] - Edited down from the previous commercial.


===1999===
* '''Kid Rhino Video Trailer'''

: Scenes from ''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]'', ''G.I. Joe: The Movie'' and ''[[Jem]]'' are shown with their corresponding theme songs followed by text narration asking you to turn your home into a zoo by buying Kid Rhino's home video releases.
: ''Notes:'' The Transformers scenes are of [[Unicron]] demolishing [[Lithone (planet)|Lithone]] and Springer transforming to helicopter mode before following [[Hot Rod (G1)|Rodimus Prime]] and the other Autobots through Unicron's right eye.


===2006===
* '''[[Sony]] ''The Transformers: The Movie'' 20th Anniversary Edition DVD Preview''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dU2TiL7Vgs]
: Scenes from ''The Transformers: The Movie'' play as text narration overlays promote the features of the DVD.
: ''Notes:'' This preview was shown at the Transformers panel at Comic-Con 2006.


===2007===
* '''[[Metrodome]] ''The Transformers: The Movie'' 20th Anniversary Edition DVD Preview''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6d4BUe74tC8]
: Excerpts from ''The Transformers: The Movie'' and images of various Metrodome Transformers DVDs are shown as text narration overlays urge consumers to buy Metrodome's G1 boxsets and 20th Anniversary edition of ''The Transformers: The Movie''


===2008===
[[Image:G1Awakening Trailer1.jpg|right|200px|thumb|"Hey, look at the pretty numbers..."]]
* '''Transformers G1 Awakening trailer 1''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRbWH14tT0M]
: Composed of sound-less excerpts of actual game footage highlighting some aspects of the control interface, in-game bios and battle mechanics.


===2009===
* '''Transformers G1 Awakening trailer 2''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLkqZmEf7CY]
: Excerpts from the Season 1 intro to the [[The Transformers (cartoon)|Generation 1 cartoon]] are interspersed with shots of a CGI cellphone displaying actual game footage.
: ''Notes:'' The cartoon animation is taken from [[Kid Rhino]]'s Season 1 DVD boxset, complete with the "remastered" 5.1 surround sound audio track.
{{-}}

==External links==
* [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WssZjIsUIU Generation 1 commercial compilation, 1985-1988]
* [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4c2GiO-8D4 Generation 1 commercial compilation, 1989-1990]

[[Category:Generation 1]]
[[Category:Media]]
[[Category:Toys]]