Movie-Holic

Transformers: Dark of the Moon has opened up across the country and the reviews continue to pour in. I asked a few days ago if you were planning on going to the theater to see the new Transformers movie and let it out that I was going the day after opening.

Well, I have seen Transformers: Dark of the Moon and continue to try and catch my breath. This is a movie like no other. If you have already seen it, you know what I am talking about. If not, then you must go.

Transformers: The Basics

While this review is not concerned with how close the story, the robots, and the mayhem stayed with the actual cartoon, it is for those who simply love movies.

I grew up in the ’80′s, but was not a big Transformers fan. I didn’t watch the cartoons, didn’t play with the cars, and really couldn’t tell you any of the robot names other than Optimus Prime and MegaTron. And, I probably never will see the cartoons or play with the toys. But, I now love Transformers.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon is the third movie in the franchise – and most definitely the best one. It continues the story of the Transformers on earth, the life of Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf), and the special detachment of service men that are assigned to work with the robots.

This particular installment focuses on the return of Sentinal Prime. A general of Cybertron who was lost when his ship was lost in space. The cargo in this ship was an invention that would save all of the Transformers from extinction. As the Decepticons hide out around the world, they maneuver the humans into finding the ship on the dark side of the moon along with the precious cargo.

From there mayhem ensues. And it is edge of your seat mayhem that does not stop until the end credits roll.

Transformers: A Review for Movie Lovers

As I mentioned, I have not been a fan of the Transformers toys or cartoons. So, coming into this review it is not about the “true” story. It is about the movie itself. And what a movie it is.

Michael Bay may have redeemed himself in the eyes of many Transformers fans after they shred The Revenge of the Fallen to bits of scrap metal. I can’t say much, I loved it. However, you can tell that a lot more thought went into Dark Side of the Moon. This goes into every aspect of the movie.

The action is elevated exponentially as well as the actual storyline and flow of each sequence. Gone is the choppy, almost forced, sequences. Only to be replaced with a seamless transition into each scene.

The same type of comedic instances (crass language, sexual innuendos, and witty comments) are found, but with a little less offense to them.

The biggest change overall would be the way that the robots are portrayed and interact. They actually look real. This, in my mind, cements it as one of the best action movies of all time. The realism is superb.

What About The Action?

Over the top sequences is what makes a truly memorable action thriller. And Michael Bay knows how to deliver that. I have to admit there was one aspect to the movie that I would give a low grade for. It took awhile to get into the action.

But, when it did… you didn’t dare to blink.

The first half of the movie consists of a lot of building up of the storyline. A lot of historical aspects are brought into the story to help the viewer understand what is actually going on. While this is necessary, I found it a little tedious. Then again, I just wanted the fighting, the explosions, the screaming, the mayhem to begin.

As the Decepticons began to put their plan into action, Dark of the Moon distanced itself from other action movies as an example. An example of how to do it right.

Fast, Non-Stop, Over the Top Action

The Decepticons take over Chicago, destroy buildings, and take a lot of human life. As the special forces sneak into the city they find an almost ‘War of the Worlds’ type invasion. Without releasing any spoilers, the team heads into a skyscraper in order to shoot a rocket into one of the ‘pillars’ that the Decepticons are using to bring Cybertron into Earth’s proximity. From there it gets fast, furious, non-stop and breathtaking.

The fight scenes between Autobots and Decepticons – especially when Optimus Prime goes on a rampage – are much better than the first two installments.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon – Should You See It?

When it comes to summer blockbusters, Transformers: Dark of the Moon is exactly what one should be. It is pure high-octane enjoyment for anyone looking for a thrilling ride at the movies. The first hour and a half is a little slow, but it is justified with the intense hour that follows.

Should you see it? Yes. However, do yourself a favor before you do. Go to the bathroom first. Because once it starts… you won’t have time to.

Should you wait for the Blu-Ray or DVD release? No. The experience of seeing it in full surround sound and a giant theater screen is how Transformers: Dark of the Moon should be seen at least once or twice. I, myself, plan to go again in a few days. Once I catch my breath.

Have you seen it yet? What did you think?