Why do we love the Transformers films even though they’re so bad?
Before the latest, Transformer: Rise of the Beasts hits theatres, here’s a quick look at what made the franchise so inescapably entertaining and nostalgic for those who grew up in the 90s and the 2000s.
The Transformers films of the early 2000s left an indelible mark on popular culture and the action blockbuster scene of its time. Directed by Michael Bay, the films combined indulgent storytelling, cheesy dialogues and over-the-top visual effects.
Drawing inspiration from the animated television series and toy line, the trilogy captured the colorful and larger-than-life essence of its predecessors, immersing viewers in a world where colossal sentient robots engaged in earth-shattering battles.
Bay's expertise in delivering explosive spectacles and grandiose narratives propelled the films to new heights. With meticulous attention to detail and a mastery of blockbuster cinema, Bay created a sensory bombardment that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. High-octane action sequences, practical effects, and seamlessly integrated CGI elevated the films to unprecedented levels of visual splendor.
However, the films’ greatness extended beyond technical virtuosity. They tapped into the collective nostalgia of a generation, reviving beloved characters from the 1980s and introducing them to a new era. The Transformers breathed life into the idea that heroes, even in mechanical form, could conquer adversity and inspire hope, and that’s what endeared them to every prepubescent growing up in the early 2000s.
The Transformers trilogy (we don’t talk about the rest) conjured a cinematic concoction that blended nostalgia and escapism, evoking a longing for simpler times and unabashed fun. It provided a respite, enveloping viewers in visually dazzling set pieces. By striking a chord with audiences' yearning for the electrifying power of indulgent blockbusters, the trilogy left an enduring impact on the landscape of popular culture.
Despite the critical acclaim, there are dissenting opinions on the Transformers trilogy. Some argue that the films epitomized mediocrity, with its dialogue criticized for being cringe-worthy and filled with clichés.
And let's not forget the film's valiant efforts to pander to the male gaze. From gratuitous shots of Megan Fox straddling motorcycles in shorts so small they should come with a magnifying glass, to slow-motion sequences of women running for reasons unknown other than to make us question the laws of physics, the trilogy shamelessly exploited the female form as mere eye candy for its target demographic.
i only watched the transformers for megan fox 🤷🏽♀️ https://t.co/SCIb8D0prz
— charlie (taylor’s version) (@RaaShawna) June 6, 2023
It was as if the filmmakers believed that their male audience would be so blinded by hormones that they would overlook the dearth of substance and applaud the film as a triumph of masculinity. The films' overt reliance on tired tropes and blatant objectification rendered them a spectacle of insipid banality.
Have you ever wondered what a Transformers film would be like without military propaganda, racism, hypersexualization and Linkin Park? Thanks to #Transformers: #RiseOfTheBeasts we now know the answer, pretty damn good. It’s got that spark to reboot and relaunch the franchise! pic.twitter.com/ln4TWB1Yfu
— Dan Tabor (@danthefan) June 6, 2023
However, even with these criticisms, the Transformers trilogy holds a significant place in cinema and pop culture. Its unintentional charm and memorable lines have become part of internet culture, generating memes and fond reminiscences. The iconic characters, impressive visual effects, and enduring presence in merchandising and toy culture contribute to the trilogy's lasting impact.
While the dialogue may have often stumbled into the realm of absurdity, it birthed an unintentional charm and meme-worthy moments that have permeated internet culture. Who can forget the infamous "I am Optimus Prime" declaration or Shia LaBeouf's exasperated cries of "No, no, no, no, no!"? In their unintentional hilarity, these moments have managed to transcend their initial flaws and become endearing quirks that unite fans.
This scene from #Transformers (2007) gets me every time. Bernie Mac brought his charisma & humour and the played the heck outta Bobby Bolivia even for just 2-3 minutes. It's one of my favorite scenes in the franchise. Nobody could have played Uncle Bobby B better, baby. #RIP pic.twitter.com/umCcOVWzvg
— Shem. (@shemjay93) June 6, 2023
The films' visual effects, despite any narrative shortcomings, are a testament to the technological achievements of their time. The intricately crafted transformations of the Autobots and Decepticons brought childhood fantasies to life, allowing audiences to witness colossal machines seamlessly morphing from vehicles to sentient beings. The spectacle of these larger-than-life battles, accompanied by the thunderous clashes of metal, evoked a sense of awe and excitement that still reverberates within the hearts of fans.
Furthermore, the Transformers trilogy's enduring presence within merchandising and toy culture cannot be understated. The films revived interest in the iconic Transformers toy line, captivating a new generation of young fans while simultaneously invoking nostalgia in older enthusiasts. The franchise's ability to transcend the confines of the silver screen and permeate everyday life through toys, video games, and merchandise speaks volumes about its lasting impact on popular culture.
Linkin Park's collaboration with the Transformers films further solidified the trilogy's legacy. The collaboration between the two seemed almost serendipitous, as the band's electrifying blend of rock, alternative, and nu-metal perfectly complemented the high-octane action and emotional beats of the films. Songs like "What I've Done" and "New Divide" became anthems for the franchise, encapsulating the themes of resilience, inner turmoil, and the relentless pursuit of heroism that resonated deeply with audiences.
Linkin Park's partnership with the Transformers films not only further propelled the band's popularity but also created a lasting association between their music and the exhilarating world of robots in disguise. The songs featured in the trilogy continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding fans of the visceral thrill and emotional resonance that the films brought to their lives.
Those old transformers movies are WHY I even got into linkin park as a kid omg https://t.co/Iu4H60xftV
— banana brigade (@sn0wslick) June 7, 2023
Linkin park had a certified platinum banger every time it was time to make a new Transformers movie! https://t.co/gsAloSez3x
— notkylebennett 🇵🇾 (@NOTKYLEBENNETT) June 6, 2023
Transformers has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Despite its flaws, it tapped into nostalgia and the longing for escapism, harkening back to the glory days of Saturday morning cartoons, tapped into a longing for simplicity and unabashed fun.
Transformers 2007 is fav of any Transformer movie released. I still remember my jaw dropped seeing the helicopter transforming in the 1st set piece in Cinemas. Adding to it has my fav Linkin Park's song was just a bonus. This movie Vfx can still shame many big blockbuster now. pic.twitter.com/xC2pRDTPuk
— Rahul R (@rahool360) June 6, 2023
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts marks the seventh live-action theatrical adaptation of the franchise and the first one to grace the big screen since 2018’s Bumblebee. Primarily influenced by the Beast Wars arc from Hasbro’s Transformers toy-line, the film is directed by Steven Caple Jr and stars Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback.
Here’s the trailer for the film:
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts hits Indian theatres tomorrow.