Transformers (DVD)

Transformers. Actors: Shia Labeouf, Megan Fox, Jon Voight, and Josh Duhamel. ASIN: B000VR0570. Dreamworks Video. 2007.

Plot Summary
Director Michael Bay and producer Steven Spielberg bring to life the epic battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. The battle of good versus evil comes crashing to Earth in a fast-paced and exciting movie full of special effects. Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) is a geeky kid who holds the only clue that holds the key to ultimate domination. He joins forces with Bumblee, gets to hang out with the hot chick and save the world.

Critical Evaluation
Transformers is an oft-told tale of good versus evil. The new version draws on the long running franchise, multiple television versions as well as the toys from the 80's, to bring this action-packed DVD to a wide range of viewers. The movie offers amazing special effects and a story that carries the concept far past the merchandise. It's the special effects—not the plot or dialog that will suck young adults in, and leave them wanting more.

Reader's Annotation
The epic battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons comes to Earth, and an Earthling, Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) holds the only clue that holds the key to ultimate power.

Genre
Science Fiction
Young Men
Friendship

Curriculum Ties
n/a

Booktalking Ideas
How would you handle your car coming to life and dragging you into a battle for world domination?

Awards
Saturn Award for Best Special Effects from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films (2008)
BMI Film Music Award (2008)
Blimp Award for Favorite Movie from Kid's Choice Awards (2008)
Best Movie of the Year from MTV Movie Awards (2008)
and several awards for visual effects from the Visual Effects Society (2008)

Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 10+

Why I included this title...
Even with bad reviews for plot, acting and dialog, this franchise is wildly popular.

Graphic from worstpreviews.com. Retrieved from http://www.worstpreviews.com/forums/showthread.php?789-Transformers-DVD-Cover-and-Specs December 14, 2010.