Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Transformers: Dark of the Moon has become the latest film in the growing gap between critics and audience tastes. Most critics have been rather nasty in their reactions to the third part in Michael Bay's robotic trilogy but this has not stopped audiences flocking to see the film.

It is hard for me to attack the film quite as strongly as the majority of critics have. And I would place myself closer to the masses in my reaction to the film. On a day to day basis I would rather watch films that focus on emotion, human drama or films that generally challenge the viewer into thinking or feeling. However, occasionally I like a film I can watch without a brain. A film that I can have fun watching, enjoying spectacle and the art of special effects. When done successfully this can all be combined (see Star Trek, The Dark Knight etc.) but some films can be forgiven in the right context for achieving one or the other.

There have been films that may be technically awful but because of their substance, critics will be forgiving. I don;t see why, upon occasion, this can't be the case when applied in reverse. The substance of Transformers: Dark of the Moon is awful. Any time spent with the humans is poor, and the film betrays any previous history with the other films. The acting is poor, dialogue shocking and song cues down right embarrassing. But, the action (and especially in 3D) is electrifying. It's not hard to see why Michael Bay has put himself at the forefront of action set pieces and this film is no different. The climactic battle (although it goes on for the length of a feature film in itself) is a marvel of the senses.

If you have no interest in cinema as spectacle then you will be a lot less forgiving than I am, but if you enjoy leaving your thoughts at home this makes for a good night's entertainment.