Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon

This is the part of the movie review I don't like, at least for an action movie like this. Oh, well, here it is: The Autobots and the Decepticons compete for the secrets revealed by an alien spaceship on the dark side of the moon.

Our loveable young hero, Sam Witwicky, is shown in a heartbeat away from the second Transformers film. He has now received a medal from the president, but can't seem to find a job, a situation that will resonate with young viewers. He has lost his last girlfriend (seemingly because she cost too much, actress-wise), but picked up a beautiful model as the current squeeze by the name of Carly. Sam's lack of self-esteem plays into everything in his life, however, from being jealous about those around Carly to the fact that those in the government have forgotten how vital Sam's role has been in the handling of the Autobots.

As usual, this Transformers film is full of action, at least during those parts that we aren't following Sam around. There are also many moments, however, when the movie's screenplay has inserted one star cameo or another, so that the film is top-heavy with roles that mean nothing to the theme of the Autobots vs. the Decepticons, or to Sam's life. John Turturro, Patrick Dempsey, Frances McDormand, John Malcovich: most of these actors are inserted badly, and in most cases, could easily be excised from the story.

But all of this is worth wading through just to get to the denouement. The final battle scene, which goes on for more than 20 minutes, is full of transforming robots, death-defying feats, cool shot angles, and just exhilarating fight scenes. And finally, a Transformers movie where I have no problem at all figuring out which robot is which. Yay Autobots!

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