Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009)

When college-bound Sam Witwicky learns the truth about the ancient origins of the Transformers, he must accept his destiny and join Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in their epic battle against the Decepticons. A presidential envoy believes it's because of the Autobots they are still around; he wants them gone. He's wrong, however, as the Decepticons need access to Sam's mind for the glyphs imprinted there, which will lead them to a hidden object that, when inserted in an alien machine disguised in Egypt, will give them the power to blow out the sun. Revenge of the Fallen is an entertaining sequel to Transformers (2007) that continues the ongoing conflict between the Cybertronian race living on Earth, the life of Sam, who is now trying to move on in his life away from the fight and the significance of the now-remnants Allspark. Personally, I quite enjoyed this follow-up despite all the hate and criticisms it received. I grew up with both this and its predecessor, therefore making them a significant part of my childhood, which is why I consider this to be a guilty pleasure of mine. I do admit it has its faults, especially with the over-complicated plot, but at the end of the day, it's a movie that features heaps of mindless action and entertainment to orb out to. The plot is easily the most distracting element of this feature. It is head-scratching at times, even baffling and with having a long runtime, it certainly added to the complexity and drawn-out effect. I did find some elements that felt improved upon since the last film, especially in terms of the action. It was so much easier to focus on with fewer crazy camera angles and a more steady approach. I could appreciate more of the special effects used and it helped amp up the coolness being able to see all the amazing takedowns on display in every climactic sequence. Once again the CGI and visuals are worthy of recognition in this movie as they still manage to hold up with today's standards (even rivalling them to some degree) and are certainly deserving of praise. Each Autobot and Decepticon look incredible with some superb designs. Optimus Prime still looks as phenomenal as ever alongside Bumblebee, Megatron, Starscream and more. Even new characters have some interesting designs like the Fallen and Jetfire as well as more returning original robots like Arcee, Soundwave and Devastator who get new appearances. I found Soundwave's new look to be the most unique having him disguised as a satellite feeding information to all the Decepticons and releasing his projectile robots down from space around the world, which was an awesome concept. My favourite segment in the whole film, which is easily the most popular moment, is seeing Optimus Prime going up against 3 other Decepticons in the woods whilst protecting Sam. It's magnificent. Prime grabbing trees and utilising them against Megatron was simply brilliant. As more Decepticons turn up, the stakes only grow as Prime takes a real beating, still managing to hold his own for the most part. Such a fantastic scene that ranks very highly as one of the Transformer's best moments ever. The final all-out battle is also something to behold coming in pretty equally with the previous film's conflict in terms of scope and action. I adore the scene where Bumblebee sneaks attacks one of the villains and has a kick-ass fight with some unbelievable moves matched with well-timed slow-motion effects. No matter how many times I see it, I feel the need to jump up and cheer in awe. During the story, we are reintroduced to elements from the original product with the main one being the first appearance of the matrix of leadership, which was first seen in The Transformers: The Movie (1986) and made for a nice callback. Overall, I still love this film. It was so fun giving this a rewatch and it even made me realise I happened to remember a great deal of it, yet I still had a blast. It may not be the best or most beloved in the franchise, but it is one I found genuinely enjoyable. For those looking for some laid-back viewing with big explosions and impeccable visuals, then this is the perfect viewing for you. Also, check out the next instalment in Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011).

Runtime: 2h 29m

Director: Michael Bay

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

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Transformers (2007)

When teenager Sam Witwicky buys his first car, what he doesn't know, is that it's an alien robot. This isn't the only alien to arrive on Earth. Optimus Prime and a fellow group of transforming robots have arrived in search of the Allspark. But Optimus Prime and the Autobots aren't the only aliens to appear. Megatron and the Decepticons are also searching for the Allspark, and they would do anything to get it, even if it means destroying the world. Based on the popular cartoon show: The Transformers (TV Series 1984-1987), this movie took on the task of revamping the franchise in a modern setting, returning familiar characters with new looks in live-action. This film and a few of the sequels were part of my first introduction to The Transformers universe and were a huge part of my childhood, much like how the original series was for those who grew up in the 1980s and I even had toys from this film. Rewatching this film just hit me with nostalgia and it's likely why I love it so much. This movie was the first-ever attempt at bringing the Transformers into this medium and they did a fantastic job. I honestly can't believe how beautiful the CGI looks in this film. You can easily see the amount of effort and detail that has gone into each character and scene, managing to still hold up today, despite being from the early 2000s. I would even say it trumps that of modern-day CGI which have slowly gone downhill in terms of quality and effort unlike this, which feels built to last. I will never forget the first time we got to see the Autobots transform. It was a magical scene that no matter how many times I see it, I still get goosebumps. Optimus Prime's transformation was the most insane, and visually stunning, moment in the whole film series, matched with the music as we witness every single part move and alter before our very eyes was breathtaking. On my latest viewing, I completely forgot how little the Transformers were actually shown in this one, with most of this long film being spent with human interactions from three separate interlocking story threads. We have stories between Sam and Mikaela, the U.S. army forces and the Defence teams aiming to discover all about these alien occurrences. Not to say that all these moments are entirely annoying because there a quite a few hilarious sequences throughout, and interesting parts whilst mainly telling a somewhat serious story. One of my favourite scenes is when the Autobots are just waiting at Sam's house causing all sorts of trouble whilst he is searching his room. It's incredibly funny. It took a while before we got to see these robotic soldiers get their time to shine in the conflict, which is what we wanted to see the most and when it finally arrives, it is the coolest thing in the whole movie. Director Michael Bay is known for his flashy action with a whole manner of crazy big explosions and battles, which is easily visible in this climactic final attack. I did find some of the action to be quite difficult to focus on at times with so much going on and the camera angles being a bit all over, matched with the lens flares too, it was hard to see what was going on. However, besides those small complaints, the whole sequence is truly exciting. I loved seeing so many iconic names get their live-action variants like the menacing Decepticon leader Megatron and Starscream who have some marvellous transformations and fight scenes. The strangest choice I found was giving Optimus a mouth. His iconic guarded mouth is in the film but only used during fights, it's just a nitpick because I think it looks cooler that way, but we were atleast treated to the superb voice acting of Peter Cullen who returned for the role. Another interesting addition to the story is that of the Allspark which gave life to the Transformers and, when it touches any technology, it turns them into one, which is so creative and intriguing. Overall, Transformers is a brilliant movie that brings iconic characters to live-action in a more adult/teen-themed manner with crazy action and stunning visuals worthy of today's standards. Certainly worth checking out for all Transformer fans and general moviegoers. Also, check out the sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009).

Runtime: 2h 24m

Director: Michael Bay

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

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Bumblebee (2018)

On Cybertron, the Autobots, led by Optimus Prime, are on the verge of losing the Great Cybertronian War to their enemies, the Decepticons, had begun making preparations to leave the planet. Optimus sends a young scout, B-127, to Earth to set up a base of operations where the Autobots can regroup. Upon landing on Earth in 1987, B-127 surprises the training of a group of soldiers under the command of Colonel Jack Burns who attacks him. However, he is ambushed by a Deception that damages his memory core and voice box. But B-127 defeats the enemy and transforms into a yellow 1967 Volkswagen Beetle. Charlie Watson finds the Beetle in a junkyard and looks after him whilst being hunted by two Decepticons and the military. This prequel/reboot spin-off to the live-action Transformer film series is a surprising delight that pays homage to the source material of the 1980s, whilst delivering a fun and charming adventure. I loved this movie so much. Being a fan of The Transformers (TV Series 1984-1987) and the live-action movies, this one combined the two creating the best Transformers movie in the live-action franchise. I have always had a passion for the 1980s and since I never grew up in them, I have sought out so much content from the decade when I saw this film it connected with me instantly with my appreciation for the time. I can only imagine how amazing this was to people who grew up then. From the clothes, food products, posters, hairstyles, and movies to the music, this film is the true 80s experience. Out of all these aspects, the music will always be the highlight with a fantastic roster of hit songs that is sure to be considered one of the best movies soundtracks out there. The coolest inclusion was hearing Stan Bush's 'The Touch', which was an original song for The Transformers: The Movie (1986) and was a great reference. This feature is full of tie-ins and references to the entire franchise with my favourites being all of the ones from the original series. Seeing Bumblebee back in his yellow Beetle appearance was incredible to see again, especially with the phenomenal use of CGI on display with his overall look, as well as his transformations. My favourite easter egg in the whole film was during the scene where Bumblebee fights the Decepticon, Dropkick, reenacting the iconic moment from the intro from season 1 of the show where a Decepticon throws an Autobot who transforms into a car before driving back around, launching back at them. Seeing it put into the fight sequences was so cool and a fun nod to the series. The opening of the film alone is something to be praised. Seeing a live-action G1 style Transformers battling on Cybertron was simply magical. The voices of these beloved characters were so accurate, like Soundwave who has those iconic vocoded vocals, which were so on point I couldn't stop grinning. Even some voice actors reprising their roles like Peter Cullen as the legendary Optimus Prime who has some epic action sequences during the battle. For the remainder of the story we are on Earth, which has some magnificent visuals with sunny bright days making for some beautiful imagery of Bumblebee driving around combined with 80s tunes on full blast, it is a breathtaking thing for any Transformers fan to see. I enjoy having a rewatch during the summer on a sunny warm day to get the full experience. In most films like this one, human interactions tend to be quite boring and feel unwanted however I found them to be very entertaining and a valued part of this story. Most especially with our human protagonist, Charlie Watson played by Hailee Steinfeld who plays a troubled, newly turned, 18-year-old trying to come to terms with loss who has some heartfelt moments throughout. I also enjoyed John Cena's performance as Colonel Burns who was both intimidating and comedic, whilst not an actor, I think he did a brilliant job and the same can be said for the rest of the cast. Overall, I adored this adventure, which returns the franchise to its roots with superb visuals and acting, making for a must-see family experience that will please fans and entertain any movie-goer. Also, check out the sequel Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023).

Runtime: 1h 50m

Director: Travis Knight

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

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The Transformers: The Movie (1986)

It is the year 2005. The Decepticons have invaded and taken over the Autobots' home planet, Cybertron. The Autobots are determined to fight back and go to Autobot City on Earth for supplies. Decepticons hijack and take over the ship, resulting in a fierce battle between the Autobots and Decepticons, the result of which is devastating. A new threat to the Autobots appears in the form of Unicron, a massive planet-devouring entity. The Transformers: The Movie is quite a unique product, which did something so unheard of at the time, that it shocked and even traumatised audiences. Nowadays, it has achieved cult status and it is easy to see why. Set 20 years after the events of season 2 of The Transformers (TV Series 1984-1987), this movie tells a story, which would be continued in the later seasons of the same show. Transformers was a show based on marketing toys to kids. When those toys stop being made, there is a new line brought about with new characters. So this film had the task of basically getting rid of the 85 toy line in favour of bringing about the 86 and the way they went about it was certainly ... effective. Throughout the series, characters were being bashed about and broken and fixed in a jiffy with no consequences but this film, however, had to get rid of these characters for good. To say the least, it was a bloodbath. Characters were being killed off left right and centre both in the foreground, to simply a body on the floor in a split second paying no thought towards how emotionally attached kids were. Not only that but they have some of the most graphic and horrific deaths imaginable, which completely traumatised children and was later dubbed, the great toy massacre of 86. The worst part is that all of this took place in the first 30 minutes. Fan favourites are gunned down in an instant, with no way of ever returning. Without naming names for spoiler reasons, some of these deaths were very over the top with the most graphic being an Autobot being shot through the chest, his eyes turning orange then fading as smoke emits from his mouth as he collapses and dies. I mean yikes. Some of the characters don't even end up completely dying in a sense, as some end up being given a new body and identity, making new characters, again, to usher in new toys. Both sides suffer losses, mainly being some of the most recognisable and beloved characters of them all, making it hit all the harder. If you don't want any spoilers then skip past the red. *Spoilers* The biggest death of all was the one this film is so famous for, the killing of Optimus Prime. The most beloved character in the whole show was killed in a grand final battle against his nemesis Megatron in a battle to the death and his final moments are truly upsetting and caused the most tears among fans. Moving on from the carnage, this film absolutely rocks. The animation is a massive step up from the quality of the show and felt like a big screen experience. The amount of detail is insane and the character models have never looked so visually stunning. I, personally, welcomed the darker tone of the story, especially with the climactic war that rages in the opening of the film. Seeing so many characters from all aspects of the show turn up like the Dinobots and Insecticons was so fun. My favourite sequence in the whole film was the entire first segment but if I had to pick one, it would be Optimus Prime's entrance into the battle where he leaps into the air, gunning Decepticons below to some incredible 80's tunes. The greatest aspect of this movie without a doubt is the music. Any time I think about this film, the music comes to mind instantly. It is phenomenal. With so many artists giving the most awesome pieces ever conceived. From Lion's rendition of the Theme song to Stan Bush's two hit songs, The Touch and Dare, the score of this film will blow you away. It doesn't stop there, however, with so many more so definitely go listen to the playlist if anything. The best movie soundtrack to ever exist. Overall, despite its faults, this is the definitive Transformers Movie. The animation is out of this world, the action invigorating and the music energetic. A true cult classic, worthy of multiple rewatches.

Runtime: 1h 25m

Director: Nelson Shin

Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation / Family / Sci-fi

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The Transformers (TV Series 1984-1987)

During the great Cybertronian War, the Autobots and the Decepticons crash-landed on Earth. Millions of years later, geological activity revives the warring factions, the Decepticons want to strip Earth of its vast energy resources, and the Autobots seek to protect the inhabitants of Earth from that fate. And so an endless battle begins in a crucial race to find an energy source for their homeworld Cybertron. Transformers is one of the most popular and recognisable shows of the 1980s and it is easy to see why. Fundamentally, this show was first and foremost made as a means to sell toys, which were created before this series was made. After their overwhelming success, a television show was spawned to give the figures a background and a rich story to match making the toys even more enjoyable for kids. To give these toys a great deal of character and history was a superb idea, especially seeing how beloved these characters became to people. It certainly will have added to their value. As a concept in general, robots that can change into vehicles, guns and other objects is simply an amazing idea that has proven timeless, entertaining people to this day. Transformers' representation of this idea was done superbly and worked extremely well, creating a franchise of many shows, films and video games over the years. The show ran 4 seasons with a theatrical release, The Transformers: The Movie (1986), which is set after season 2, leading into season 3. The first two seasons saw the heroic Autobots fending against the evil Decepticons who aim to drain the planet Earth, of the 1980s, of all its energy resources. I think that these early seasons were the peak of the series and easily my favourite, whilst I did want to see more of the planet Cybertron, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing these alien life forms inhabiting our planet, disguising themselves as Earth vehicles. We are introduced to so many interesting characters that have been cemented in pop culture history becoming so iconic. From their appearances to their mannerisms and voices, these characters are equally memorable in their own varied ways. Of the Autobots, there are too many to name but the most recognisable has to be the heroic leader Optimus Prime and Bumblebee. On the opposing side, it had to be the fierce leader Megatron, Starscream and Soundwave. I love everything about them from their look, especially Prime's, but also the voiceovers for each one are outstanding, truly bringing them to life. There were so many cool designs and transformations from the obvious cars, and planes but also tanks, a boombox, a microscope, guns, insects and even dinosaurs! There are groups of Transformers that can combine into one large character like the Constructicons who form into Devastator who was the coolest looking of them all. There can be quite a few annoying people in the show, mainly humans, who can get on my nerves for sure but I do enjoy seeing characters like Spike and his father, Sparkplug, who constantly aid the Autobots in their missions on Earth. Moving onto the later seasons following the movie, the show takes place after the events of that story, set in the year 2005 and shows little Earth, only appearing a bit and mainly focusing on stories on Cybertron or in space with a whole new cast of characters. I do enjoy the later seasons but they weren't as enjoyable to me as the first. As it went on, the show got a bit ridiculous with everyone's guns being Transformers and even robot heads becoming their own also. The thing I adore the most from the series has to be the theme song, which had many variations over the years with my personal favourite being season 2. It is extremely catchy and so visually stunning. Overall, the Transformers is another fine piece of classic 80s television that brought so many loveable and iconic robots to life and presents many ideas that continue to be timeless. With beautiful animation, marvellous voiceovers and intriguing stories, this is a show sure to capture your imagination. For more Transformers, check out the first live-action movie: Transformers (2007) or if you are looking for a live-action 80s adaptation, check out: Bumblebee (2018).

Seasons & Episodes: 4 Seasons - 98 Episodes

Creator: Henry Orenstein

Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation / Family / Sci-fi

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Check out all episodes of the classic show on YouTube posted by Hasbro with the first episode here above.

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Murder by Decree (1979)

Sherlock Holmes is drawn into the case of Jack the Ripper who is killing prostitutes in London's East End. Assisted by Dr. Watson, and using information provided by a renowned psychic, Robert Lees, Holmes finds that the murders may have their roots in a Royal indiscretion and that a cover-up is being managed by politicians at the highest level, all of whom happen to be Masons. Homes races to save the life of Annie Crook who has been forcibly incarcerated in an insane asylum and that of her friend Mary Kelly, to whom she has entrusted her secret. I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery thriller that places the greatest detective against one of the most horrific unsolved killers of all time. It does beg the question had Sherlock Holmes been a real person, would he have put a stop to the most terrifying serial killer of the Victorian Era, Jack the Ripper? For those fascinated by the history of the Ripper and who are also fans of Holmes, this movie was practically made for you. Although this film is complete fiction, acting as a sort of fanfic idea, it does take some elements from reality with some attention to key details. Jack the Ripper was never caught nor was his identity ever revealed leaving his identity as one of the unsolved cases that are still debated to this day. The narrative of the film explores the who, how and why in this fictional account of the Ripper and his crimes, in an exciting, suspenseful and nail-biting dive into Victorian London. The story focuses on the idea of the killer having friends in high places and that their work is being covered up to hide the truth behind a secret that deems troublesome to those of royalty. This secret belongs to Annie Crook whom bestows it upon Mary Kelly (real-life victim of the Ripper) who later shares the nature of the secret with others who are then marked by the serial killer too. Each one is taken and gruesomely killed with some truly disturbing imagery shown but mostly inferred. We, the audience, are not privy to all the dreadful attacks, mainly seeing bodies from a certain angle allowing our minds to picture the rest. At times, we do see or hear these attacks in their full spine-chilling effects making for difficult viewing, especially for the faint of heart. I won't spoil the Ripper's identity reveal here but I can tell you it is undoubtedly a shocking one, even for Mr Holmes and Dr. Watson. My favourite aspect of this eventful tale has to be the characters/actors. Some actors bring a much-needed breath of fresh air to some long-established characters, like the phenomenal Christopher Plummer as Sherlock Holmes and James Mason as Dr. Watson. Most modern and later depictions of the legendary Holmes have him more brash and unfeeling to others around him, focusing on the task at hand and not much more. Here, he is compassionate and more involved with the people, especially seen through the heart-wrenching scene with Annie Crook, where Holmes cries for her. He cares for others, which is much more on display here than anywhere else and I loved every second of it. Even his friendship with Dr. Watson in later productions has them in a kind of dysfunctional relationship whereas, this film, gives us the Holmes and Watson we want. Their on-screen moments are frankly the highlight of this entire story. The loyalty when one is put in harm's way, the banter they share and overall appearance as being long-time friends are enough to make them feel believable as partners. Alongside the amazing actors is the setting and look of London. Breathtaking to say the least. Seeing the fog-filled streets lit only by the tall standing street lamps on a cold night is magnificent and iconic imagery when associated with Sherlock Holmes. Whilst watching, I didn't feel like I was looking at a set but a real location as if I had travelled back in time and was really living in the year 1888. A marvellous piece of movie magic and how they brought the world to life. Overall, I had a great time in this 'what if' scenario that lept into a dark and mysterious setting filled with heaps of heart-throbbing scenes, like the climactic showdown between the two that leaves you on the edge of your seat. This is worthy viewing for all Sherlock enthusiasts.

Runtime: 1h 58m

Director: Bob Clark

Genre: Crime / Mystery / Thriller

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Dragnet (1987)

LAPD Sgt. Joe Friday, the equally straight-laced nephew of the famous police sergeant of the same name, is paired up with a young, freewheeling detective named Pep Streebeck. Though Friday and Pep do their share of quarrelling, they eventually trace some strange robberies at the local zoo and the theft of a stockpile of pornographic magazines. They uncover cult activity in the heart of the city and are hot on the case to figure out who's behind it all. On their investigations, they come across an ominous ceremony where they save a near-victim, Connie Swail. Can the duo unmask and capture the culprit behind the series of cult crimes? Dragnet is simply another movie in the vast line of titles that amplify my love for the 1980s. An absolutely hilarious addition to the buddy cop duo subgenre filled with a whole bunch of comedic moments tied together with an exciting adventure. This film pays homage to the original police drama from the 50s and 60s, despite personally having never seen any of the original drama, I loved this flick. It is perfect for the typical movie goer although I don't know how well it does in terms of paying homage but if anything it has made me want to check it out. The highlights of this movie are without a doubt our dissimilar duo. Friday and Streebeck are so funny together being complete opposites from Pep's laid-back and constant quips to Joe's by the book approach, taking things more literally and seriously. Despite these contrasting differences throughout, they grow a close friendship whilst not entirely agreeing with one another, they change each other ever so slightly, making them equally all the better for it. Their constant back-and-forth banter is why this film is the loveable entertainment it is. Both actors did superb jobs in their respective roles. Tom Hanks is brilliant as Streebeck who is so full of comedic quips and frequently joking about which goes hand in hand with Dan Aykroyd's fantastic portrayal as Friday. The fact he manages to deliver every line with such a straight face and at the speed he says them makes him a true focal point. If anything, this experience left me wanting more stories starring these two phenomenal actors which is a shame with this being their only movie together. Another great addition to this film is both leading actors rapping for the end title sequence and even a music video for the song the City of Crime, which I have linked below, which is magnificent. Such an epic song! Alongside the main leads, there are plenty of other great cast members and characters to get engaged with. I love how for the whole film Connie Swail is frequently referred to as The Virgin Connie Swail after rescuing her from the sacrifice requiring a virgin. Even when Friday introduces her to his maternal grandmother, he refers to her as such, practically becoming her name for the remainder of the story, which is hysterical and even leads to the funniest punchline at the end. As I previously mentioned, there are plenty of hilarious sequences throughout this film to have a good laugh at. My favourite has to be the scenes involving the ritual where the two go undercover in some ridiculous outfits and try blending in by partaking in the activities such as dancing. They even collect some drugs, which come in handy when battling against the snake that was stolen from the zoo that is being fed Connie. The quick remarks and dialogue exchange is marvellous, I couldn't stop laughing, especially when they escape its clutches by feeding it the pills. The most recognisable moment in this film is Friday's foot being run over by one of the criminals, which leaves us with the delightful imagery of Dan Aykroyd's facial expressions that became so iconic. Not only is this a comedy flick, but also an action one too, from a shoot-out between the cult members and cops to the use of the duo's tank that comes in handy on multiple occasions. Overall, Dragnet has it all, from mystery, action to crime but, most of all, heaps of comedy. It is one I am sure to bring out when I need cheering up and for fans of Aykroyd, Hanks and everything 80s, this is one not to miss. 

Runtime: 1h 46m

Director: Tom Mankiewicz

Genre: Comedy / Crime

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