Transformers 3 - Thoughts

Deciding to watch Transformers 3 was a no-brainer; being a fan of the franchise and someone who loves big budget blockbuster action flicks. I recall seeing the first teaser trailer several months ago, and more recently the 3rd trailer with considerably more content. In Transformers 3, the mission to put man on the moon is tied into the war between the Decepticons and the Autobots. The battle that ensues after is colossal, and in line with the Decepticons intent to colonize earth and enslave mankind.


In true Michael Bay fashion, the scale of the action was mammoth; presenting a seemingly larger than life perspective to the audience. If you felt the first two installments in the series were big in terms of action and scale, take it up several notches, and you’ll have Transformers 3. The plot is by no means lacking in creativity, tying several historical events into the storyline, from as far back as 1964. Since the first 2 movies some character development is imminent; this works well, adding a sense of realism by means of the progression of time. While 2 of my friends whined excessively about the flaws of Transformers 3, particularly commenting on inaccuracies when compared to the original storyline, and the imperfections of the plot and execution, I will have to differ and say that the movie was pretty good. At the end of the day the aim is to please the general public, and make money. Most general audiences enjoyed the movie, and financially it has been an incredible success, with the worldwide gross being in excess of 4 times the production budget in just the first month of release. At the end of the day, if you love action, special effects, and Transformers you’ll enjoy Transformers 3. Keep in mind though that the plot is unassuming and keeps it simple, fun and light.

Shia LaBeouf plays Sam Witwicky, the lead character who has now finished college and is looking for a job. This transition is portrayed very believably, and he does his bit in an expectedly humorous manner. Though the previous female lead had quite a prominent role in the plot of the first 2 movies, her stepping out and being replaced by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley played by Carly Spencer was packaged and delivered seamlessly. While her role is not as hardcore or intense as that of Megan Fox, she does add a new dimension of British exoticness to the blend. John Turturro plays Simmons, now a retired rich man, adding without any depreciation his comedic antics. Other returning cast members include Lennox played by Josh Duhamel, and Epps played by Tyrese Gibson. New and a pretty impressive addition to the cast is Frances McDormand who plays Mearing. Her character has assumed command of security in relation to the Autobots and their peace keeping initiatives. As Mearing has only taken control recently, post the initial incidents with the Decepticons, her role is that of the stereotype government agent who needs to be convinced all over again. As for having to play a tough cookie, she is just brilliant.

Being one of the few movies that I was unwilling to wait for the DVD, I ran to the theatre to catch it. Additionally, it was presented in 3D, which compounded the reason. The use of 3D was effective, and added more punch to the already solid action sequences. The highway car sequence being quite standout; such as memorable predecessors from Matrix Reloaded and Bad Boys 2. On a general note though, with several 3D movie out nowadays, 3D per se has certainly lost the charm it once had, back when Avatar was released. Owing to the 3D it’s hard to comment on the clarity of the video, but colors were vibrant, reds and blues looking gorgeous. Sound was on point, with the surround stage fittingly supporting the action.

My Recommendation: Watch It + (Get ready to experience 3x Transformers mayhem)