Optimus Prime did not choose his position in life, it was thrust upon him in the most dire of circumstances. From a simple data clerk to an anointed leader of his people, Optimus has led the Autobots with valor and distinction for millennia, but not without regrets. 

More than any other Optimus Prime in TF fiction, this Optimus feels the weight of his actions during the war, and they'll be brought up often. Actors going for this role will need to balance the gravitas of the character while also making sure that emotion comes through. Simple Peter Cullen impersonations won't cut it. While a Cullen inspired voice is certainly the base for the character's voice, I want to move beyond that interpretation to make something familiar yet new at that same time.