Go see Transformers

I saw Transformers last night with Jeff, Mike, Steph, and Jay. I am pleased to say that the movie far exceeded my expectations. It was very well done. The acting was phenomenal, and even the great Peter Cullen still had it 20+ years after his original gig as the voice of Optimus Prime. In fact, if there was ever any doubt, this movie proved Optimus Prime to be the man. Well, up until the end when he couldn't even hold his own against Megatron. Lucky for him, Shia LeBeouf of Disney Channel fame was at the ready to do what Prime couldn't. That definitely felt reminiscent of the Ewoks defeating the Galactic Empire with rocks and sticks, but unlike George Lucas, Michael Bay managed to pull it off with some believability. The movie also had many conservative overtones that was a breath of fresh air when compared to the usual liberal tripe proffered by Hollywood nowadays.

Oh, and yes -- the phrase "more than meets the eye" manifested itself a couple times, but never referring to the Transformers themselves. Once it was directed at Megan Fox's character, Mikaela, and the other time was in the epilogue when Optimus Prime said humans are "more than meets the eye". Sadly, no one pointed out that the Transformers were "robots in disguise". Maybe in the sequel...

Now for my critique of Michael Bey - he didn't wreck this movie like he has all of his others with too much romance. In fact, the romance was subtle at best until right about 45 seconds before the movie ended - and even that was only 5 seconds long. I have no problems with romance in movies usually, but obviously, that is not why I went to see Transformers. He finally directed a movie I would see again.

In case you were wondering, there will absolutely be at least one sequel. They have at least the one story to tell that the movie clearly leaves off with. But they should leave it at the one sequel and that's it.

Today at some point, I will be attending a barbecure like all other red-blooded Americans to celebrate this country's 221st anniversary of ridding ourselves of the tyrannical rule of those limey redcoats. This cookout will be hosted by Kristin's cousin. I am assuming that since we all have kids, fireworks will follow. My plans for the rest of the week are in the air. I think I am going to Tucson on Saturday to see a cousin that has been away at school. We shall see...