Whether you love Rattrap or find him insufferable, you've gotta admit that it was specifically his insubordination, cowardice, and snarky attitude towards Optimus Primal that really allowed the latter to shine.

One of my favorite things about Optimus Primal was his inexperience, yet still rising to the occasion in the role he needed to fill. As the captain of a simple exploration vessel, he already had to earn the respect of his crew as a battle commander, and Rattrap amped up the pressure tenfold.

Rattrap mocked him, refused to follow orders...then he sees that Primal genuinely does care about all of them. That Primal "Wouldn't make anyone do something he wasn't willing to do himself,"

Seeing Rattrap gradually gain a grudging respect for him, realizing that he was more than just a figurehead, was really heartwarming to see. Hell, Rattrap even put his life and reputation on the line to carry out a spy mission for him in one episode!

Not that Rattrap loses his edge, of course! He still has a snarky attitude throughout the series (directing a disproportionate amount on Chopper Face, if I recall).

The absence of that "push and stand firm" dynamic was very noticeable in the 2023 film, and it's really made me look back with appreciation at Primal's development in the OG show, along with other elements.

Which is ironic, because I watched the Beast Wars cartoon specifically so that I would be able to catch references and the like in the film.

Anyway. If you made it this far, have a gif or two of best boy, #Rattrap

#BeastWars #OptimusPrimal