Transformers Movie Actually Rad

I saw a preview screening of Transformers at work last night, with the ILM folks who actually worked on the effects, and I have to say it actually was kinda rad. The visual effects and sound design were mindblowing.

Even the usual Michael Bay-isms of supermodel women as mechanics and enginerds, people outrunning EVERYTHING, slo-mo action of helicopters in the sunsets and and doofus secret government officials seemed to work just fine with the movie's subject matter. It added to the movie's popcorn fun mentality.

Shia's acting was endearing and believable, and almost John Cusack like. And as expected Jon Voight and John Turturro brought their own acting chops to the table. All in all, I loved the over-the-top action, the humor, the inside jokes, the special effects, the chilling sound elements and even the camp.

Hardcore fans need to loosen up. After all, Bay did get voice actor Peter Cullen to return to his role as Optimus Prime. In this film, there really is more than meets the eye.

More fun stuff here:
Transformers Live Action Movie Blog

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Thanks for blogging this Boingboing.net!

Candy Mountain!

Sand People Choir (Family Guy)

Even Wizards Eat Pizza

More photos here and here.

Batman vs. Optimus Prime vs. Indy Jones vs. Abe Lincoln

And all with a catchy little tune:
http://www.ultimateshowdown.org/

Eat the Freak!