Before I left town 2 weeks ago, I happened to catch Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen with MadVillain. Now let me preface this review by saying two things: 1.) I really like movies so it’s hard for me to find a movie that I legitimately don’t like, 2.) I read all the reviews on RottenTomatoes before I went to see the movie (I always end up half ruining movies for myself by reading all the spoilers and reviews before I go to a movie).

After sitting through 2 ½ hours of this behemoth movie, I feel like Michael Bay has created his ultimate masterpiece (in his mind at least); he has created his “Mr. Holland’s Opus” of action movies. Now first off, I fully realize (as should everybody that consents to watching this movie) that this movie was made for two reasons: 1.) to allow Michael Bay to create the biggest and most over-the-top fight scenes and explosions as is allowed by a single movie budget, and 2.) to basically give you 2 ½ hours of Megan Fox gyrating and jiggling in every possible way (this movie was basically a precursor to her doing Playboy or having a sex tape in the next 6 months to a year). With those two facts in mind, I found the movie to overall be an enjoyable film to watch, if taken for what it is. Aesthetically, it is one of the most mind-numbing and visually stimulating experiences I’ve taken in at a movie; when I left the theater, I physically had a headache from the constant visual stimulation and continuous back and forth that Bay performs. At times I wasn’t sure completely what I was watching and which of the 30+ transformers were involved, but I knew that the battle was badass. As for the plot and acting, I mean come on, any self-respecting film fan should know what they are getting into with a Michael Bay film. Shia LaBeouf is not going to turn into the next great actor of our generation, and Megan Fox is simply nothing more than a poor man’s Angelina Jolie (although I argue she’s hotter), but honestly who cares. If you are going into this film for anything than more than the sheer excitement of non-stop action and mind-blowing effects, then you are going to this movie for the wrong reasons. The only bright spot for me acting wise was the eccentric, over-the-top job that John Turturro did as Agent Simmons, the former member of Section 7 who now works as a deli shop worker; his role alone is the bright spot of entertainment from an acting and character point of view, but again I’m ok with that.

Despite the obvious plot and acting flaws that are inherent with this film, it was still a worthwhile experience, especially if seen on a larger (possibly IMAX) screen so that you can take in the full-movie going experience. Remember, sometimes it is still good to go see a true summer blockbuster for the entertainment value, and occasionally park your cerebral and intellectual stimulus, and just enjoy the ride.

Grade 7.5/10

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1. Thursday Theater: Funny People
2. Thursday Theater: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy