The Perfect Mindless Teen Flick!

Rating: 6/10 (22 October 2010)

I remember the very first time I saw this movie. The special effects were great, and it immediately began with a war/fight scene. The explosions, I thought, were very well done and believable. Again, I was only 13 when I first saw this. The complete mindlessness of this movie was appealing to me as a teen. "Transformers" is a name we all known, some more than other. I don't know much about the original toys or show or whatever it may be. Be that as it may, I felt a very modern twist on these classic figures. The sleek, updated cars really shone through as well as the recognizable cityscapes. All of the technological aspects in the films were a nice touch. I liked seeing Shia LaBeouf in this movie. I think the connection his character, Sam, had with his silent alien guardian, Bumblebee, was well played but could have been deeper. The temporary "tension" between Sam and Mikaela at the discovery of her juvie record was a little cheesy in my opinion. Some of the acting was a little forced. The first part of the movie seemed slightly inane. Megan Fox looked the part of her role well, but something seemed to be lacking from her performance. I don't know. John Turturro is always awesome to watch with that perfect, unique blend of sarcasm. "'Never heard of it.' 'Never will.'" Josh Duhamel played perfectly the fearless, committed solider as well the the natural leader, hence "captain". The scene of him on the motorcycle seemly painfully real and intense accompanied by perfect music. I struggled to find any symbolism in this movie. Perhaps that's because I just wasn't searching for it. This movie did not stir me up emotionally, it was the action that made this film as enjoyable as it was. Bumblebee's speech impediment (haha) was particularly funny and creative, so to have him regain his voice at the end was, again, a little cheesy: I didn't care for that decision. Optimus Prime's narration of the movie, and it being a "message" to those dwelling in deep space, was superb. That put forth the perfect introduction, background, and closure, while maintaining good potential for a sequel. Although long, I really liked this movie. I can think of no better way to develop a Transformers movie in these times. What I can say is that if you want a quiet, thought- provoking, well thought out film, you've come to the wrong place. If you just want to kick back and enjoy the action and the memorable, humorous lines, I'd recommend this movie for you. (Cheesy ending)