This film, didn't deserve to be this good.
I'll edit in with more thoughts, but this is the best adaptation of an 80's animated show yet for film. Genuinely happy for Travis Knights live action debut.
EDIT: This film, does so much for Transformers. It acts in a way, as a perfect way to reboot the series. And if Travis Knight is an example of what the future awaits, then I am all in.
His direction, alongside the surprisingly good writing from Christina Hodson; is what makes this film shine. It has a lot of great respect to Generation One, and the way's they open the door; feel natural and genuine.
They also adressed the franchises two..big problems.
The first, is actors. Hailee Steinfeld takes her performance to a level that brings emotion and nature. She is the standout performance from the film. They also had some really fun side characters, and some surprisingly good acting from John Cena (which reminds me of Dwayne Johnson in a way).
But the second, is the Transformers themselves. Their designs; expressions; movements: everything. They nailed down what makes it great for these characters to exist, and that goes to the choice of turning the clock back to a more dated age.
Speaking of the 80's, that soundtrack was rather good; as the score was entertaining and fun to listen to.
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I am so happy that they got this down right. And if it's successful, then sign me up for seeing how they reboot the mainline Transformers story.
So proud for everyone at Allspark Pictures, especially for Greg Mooradian for pulling this off.