Culch.ie

Transformers 2: Fun but Dumb

Pure and simple, Transformers 2 is a CGI/SFX wet dream.

I probably exclaimed “Cool!” about 10 times throughout (there’s this one scene with an aircraft carrier that is simply droolworthy!) What can I say, I just love special effects. I also grew up watching cartoons like Transformers and this in itself changes how you relate to it. It appeals to my inner child and the tomboy within.

Most of this movie is like watching a fireworks display, you will “Oooh” and “Ahhh” – but don’t forget to switch your brain off and let it be dazzled by the shiny things. I can’t remember the last fireworks display I watched that had a coherent plot line, it is after all a Hollywood blockbuster, and it’s rare that these stimulate anything more than your brain stem.

However, special effects and action sequences aren’t this movie’s only strength. The supporting cast brings some truly enjoyable humour. Julie White who plays the mother of Sam (our hero – i.e. the teenager who killed Megatron in the first movie) had me in stitches – “Hi professor, I’d do anything for an A.”. Also, the audience seemed to enjoy the comic stylings of the twin Transformers. It’s a pity the two main characters weren’t given the same opportunity to shine.

Personally I’m not a fan of Shia LaBeouf or Megan Fox, and there are some truly cringe worthy moments between them, but in fairness I think this was all down to bad writing. The dialogue is woeful in parts. They really need to hire some female writers to add some realism to these kinds of “emotional scenes”. Obviously they’ve included these to try to appeal to the women in the audience, but if Lottie’s review is anything to go by they’ve clearly not succeeded.

Overall I enjoyed Transformers 2 – the special effects, the humour, and in some instances I even enjoyed the plot. The actual storyline had some potential at the beginning of the movie, but it degenerates into one long action sequence about half way through. It’s at this point that it begins to make less sense and it’s a pity they didn’t wrap it up sooner. I’ve heard some extremely negative reviews from my Culch compatriots, but I do think the fact that it dragged so much at the end left people thinking that the entire movie was rubbish, despite perhaps enjoying the rest of it.

Go see it and make your own mind up, would love to hear what other people thought of it.