TransFormers 2: Revenge of the Fallen
Michael Bay’s TransFormers 2: Revenge of the Fallen is shining example of what happens when a sequel is done right. The first movie was excellent, but spent a long time building up to an amazing climax (the final scene with Sam carrying the cube down the boulevard, with Ratchet and Ironhide providing cover fire, is likable to ultimate football). In the first film, we had to go through the setup, for the two or three people that may have never heard of TransFormers; we went through the Cybertronian wars. We went through their arrival on Earth. We saw them take their forms. Basically, we were treated to a few good appetizers while Mike prepared the main course.
With nothing to set up, the sequel wastes no time getting right to it, sticking to the heart of what the Transformers are about. It’s been two years since Sam heroically destroyed Megatron, and the Autobots are now teamed with an elite human military unit as they wage their battle to destroy the evil forces of the Decepticons. Literally. You get this within the first ten minutes of the film.
The writing isn’t spectacular (in fact, it’s barely passable) but we don’t see this film for the scripting, which seems set aside for mind-numbing, extraordinarily intense (and violent) action sequences. The autobots and decepticons are locked in full-on combat, Earth is luckily/unfortunately the battlefield. Most of the human cast has been relegated to extras (especially Tyrese, who may have the most predictable lines in the film) with the exception of Megan Fox and Shia LeBouf (you know, the guy from the first one?). You get more of Megan Fox with less of her clothes and a lot more close ups. Fox fiends will be satisfied.
Michael Bay’s ADD style of direction is perfectly suited to this film, which is home to some of the most epic action sequences seen on the big screen in a long time. Optimus Prime again proves his heroism by making a valiant stand against six Decepticons. The CGI that must’ve gone into creating Devestator (the constructicons united) must’ve been the most expensive shot in the film, but man, is it worth it. Roughly half of the two and a half hours you’ll spend in the theater will be spent on Michael Bay’s brilliant action sequences.
Despite the film’s stereotypically offensive twins, Mudflap and Skids (see the film, you’ll get it), most of it’s comedy comes from the welcome return of John Turturro, who has, shall we say, fallen from grace. Also helping with a healthy dose of physical comedy is Leo, aptly played by Ramon Rodriguez. Judy White gets a lot more screen time and uses every minute of it hilariously playing the well-meaning mother from hell.
We also get to see a lot more interaction between the TransFormers, and a stellar addition is the animosity between Megatron and the would-be usurper, Starscream. This is one of the film’s highlights.
It has it’s flaws (most of which revolve around Mudflap and Skids), but overall, TransFormers 2: Revenge of the Fallen is the best movie I’ve seen in a long time. Gratuitously, unapologetically violent with new additions to both sides, this will appeal to both hardcore and casual fans. Stop reading this review and go see it.
8.5 of 10.
(c) Avery K. Tingle for Akting Out LLC
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