"Transformers" a robotic thrill ride

Rating: 8/10 (6 July 2007)

SYNOPSIS: Sam Witwicky (Shia Labeouf) and his crush, Mikaela (Megan Fox) find themselves caught in the midst of a security crisis involving shape shifting androids. Based on the popular toy line. PROS: The biggest pro of this movie are the Transformers themselves. Designed by ILM, these robots go beyond the typical sci-fi cinema eye-candy and become convincing creations that are up there with 'Pirates' Davy Jones as some of the best CGI creations ever to grace the silver screen. Shia Labeouf also does an excellent job. The whole movie rests on his shoulders, and he makes it work. Also great is the fact that this film never takes itself too seriously. Director Michael Bay and Co. understand the humor in the story, and thus produce some great laughs. CONS: My biggest problem with this movie is the fact that it was shot in a gritty, hand-held-camera style that doesn;t fit the story. Instead of adding extra intensity, it just make the viewer dizzy. Also, there are a few moments of Michael Bay excess, some unintentionally hilarious lines, and some annoyingly blatant product placements. Overall, Transformers is a big, brassy blast that is best viewed on the big screen.