Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Release Date: Jun 29, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 37 min. 

Director: Michael Bay 

Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel, John Turturro, Tyrese Gibson, Patrick Dempsey, Frances McDormand. 

The battles may have been won, but the war has only just begun in “Dark of the Moon,” the latest installment in Michael Bay’s toy-bot franchise. Following the events of “Revenge of the Fallen,” we find the Autobots aiding as military allies in global conflicts, while the humans have reluctantly returned to their ordinary lives. But that soon changes when a top secret NASA mission resurfaces and exposes a threat that could mean the end for all of mankind. Michael Bay returns to what he knows best, offering up bigger explosions and battle sequences than ever before. And it’s obvious that he had 3-D in mind—whether it’s parachuting from building tops or smashing through rubble—as action fills the extremity of the frames at all angles. Unlike its lacking predecessor, “Dark of the Moon” attempts to tell a more cohesive story, bringing in historical anecdotes and footage regarding the ‘Space Race’ circa 1969. However, this is a summer blockbuster for a reason, and with it comes more of a visual appeal than anything else. This includes the acting, which regrettably has not improved much after the demise that was Megan Fox. In her place is newcomer Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who is nothing more than arm candy for leading man Shia LaBeouf, something of which even his mother (Julie White) takes notice and comments on. Adding to the mix are two eccentric characters played by Ken Jeong and John Malkovich, both who seem like a means of distraction rather than added value. Still, aside from casting mishaps, the second sequel feels like a small improvement—granted without the first hour or so—and that’s more than enough to roll in the big bucks. Don't expect Bay to stray too far from this franchise.

Rating: 2½ stars