Transformers and G.I. Joe Crossover Movie Just Hit a Major Snag

If you were getting your hopes up for a wild Transformers and G.I. Joe crossover movie, it might be time to pump the brakes. Despite all the buzz after Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, that big Hasbro mash-up isn’t barreling down the pipeline just yet. Here’s what’s really going on — and why there’s a lot less certainty than fans probably hoped for.

So, Where’s That Crossover?

If you saw Rise of the Beasts, you know exactly what I’m talking about — that ending practically screamed 'Shared Universe.' Autobots, meet G.I. Joe. Cue internet speculation, think pieces, and a lot of not-so-subtle hints from the people involved.

But here’s the reality check. Steven Caple Jr., the director who brought us Rise of the Beasts, just told ScreenRant that the crossover isn’t next in line for the franchise. He’s not even attached to the next Transformers project currently in production.

What’s more, Caple Jr. made it clear the whole idea is still floating in development limbo — not scrapped, but nowhere near ready to roll cameras. In his words:

'I still do have big plans for what that could be, but we’ll have to see. We’ll have to see what comes about it. I am not part of the next Transformers film, but it’s still in development and there’s still time, so you just never know. Yeah.'

That’s about as noncommittal as it gets. Translation: Yes, they want to do it. No, it’s not on any official schedule yet. No one is calling 'action' anytime soon.

What Does This Actually Mean?

• The end of Rise of the Beasts: strongly hinted that Autobots and G.I. Joe were about to team up, and for months, fans figured the next film was a lock for crossover madness.
• Paramount’s game plan: as of now, there’s zero public info on where the main Transformers franchise is headed next. The crossover hasn’t been canceled, but there’s no date, no cast, not even an outlined timeline.
• Steven Caple Jr.’s involvement: he set up the crossover, wants to make it happen, but he’s not directing the next Transformers movie, and there’s no guarantee he’ll end up running the show if and when the crossover does get made.

If You’re Keeping Score

This puts the future of the franchise in a kind of weird holding pattern. Paramount’s basically keeping its cards close to the vest, no matter how much hype or momentum the ending of Rise of the Beasts built up. They’re not shooting down the crossover, but don’t expect it in theaters anytime soon.

If you’re a fan of either franchise (or both), this is the part where you sigh and ask why these things always end up so complicated. Don’t be surprised if it takes a few more years — and a few more 'updates' like this — before Optimus Prime and Snake Eyes actually share a scene.