Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen – 2009
All critical eyes have been on the Transformers sequels apparently bombastically bloated length and fully prepared to be a defendant, I went in with stern optimism. Alas, it seems that the majority of people were not exaggerating and after a rousing opening the film descends into tedium as the doldrums settle. I am in no way an opponent of lengthy films as some of my all time favourites from the newer wonders of The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile, to the grand classics like D.W. Griffith’s Intolerance, are sprawling epics, shattering the two hour running mark. Length is not a hindrance, it can often be a great asset when approached correctly, but a swollen film existing solely as a result of a lazy editor is a celluloid sedative.
Thankfully, at least, for your money you get astounding special effects, what more is there truly to say? They are flawless, seamless, often astonishing. A particular robo-battle which takes place in a forest forges a striking contrast between the metal transformers and the lush green and highlights the remarkable nature of the technology beautifully. The human elements are far less compelling, with only Shia LaBouef and John Tutturo displaying any effort and do manage to squeeze some charm from the sloppy screenplay. Even when setting all contrivances, unanswered questions and corny slapstick aside the droning nature of the film even manages to absorb the gravitas displayed by its stars. The first film which is of a similar length somehow managed to keep me of interest far more efficiently. Perhaps it is simply an end to the transformers honeymoon.
The plot, which is perhaps the least important plot ever needed, still manages to be confusing and erratic with a number of smaller arcs finally leading up to the 'main' narrative. Shia LaBouef returns as Sam Witwicky, Megan Fox as Mikaela Banes, and Kevin Dunn and Julie White as Sam's parents, now on the eve of college. Two years have passed since Decepticon forces attempted to gain control of the powerful 'Allspark', an alien cube capable of breeding new Transformers, and now the remaining friendly Autobots, lead by Optimus Prime, work with the government to seek out any remaining enemies speckled across the globe. But the Decepticons are not done with Earth, as the evil robots regroup, lead by 'The fallen' an ancient being, to forge a new plan that forces Sam and gang back into action.
There is arguable more humour in this sequel then in the original film, but half feels more juvenile and half feels quite raunchy for the ultimately goofy premise.
