[7.25/10] Transformers: Dark of the Moon [3D] (2011)

Transformers:
Dark of the Moon [3D] (2011)

Full review: Not nearly as great as the original "Transformers" that wowed us with its visuals, but definitely an improvement over "The Revenge of the Fallen", "Dark of the Moon" is the perfect summer blockbuster, despite its repetitiveness, lack of logic, paper-thin plot and messy structure. The third film is the darkest, most sweeping, and most grandiose installment in the series, but also the one with the most flaws and the biggest plot holes. Having said that, I rather doubt that someone cares about the story, since obviously, "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is all about the action and the visuals. And hey, who says less is more? Michale Bay's over-the-top direction and pompous visual style prove exactly the opposite. Filled with dynamic camera movements, tons of different angles, ultra-sharp editing, huge explosions, jaw-dropping transformations, stupendous action and thrilling chases, "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is as chaotically-shot as it's mind-blowingly imposing. Plus, Michael Bay's sci-fi robo flick boasts some of THE BEST special effects ever put on film - both, the Autobots and the Decepticons look absolutely stunning, with the newly introduced Sentinel Prime, the evil Megatron, and of course everyone's favorite Optimus Prime being the main focus, and Shockwave being the most impressive one in terms of design. The CGIs themselves are so polished, extremely detailed and realistic-looking, you won't believe your eyes. The settings are just as fantastic - the indoor environments are stylish, luxury and beautiful, and watching the beautiful Chicago being destroyed in a such a spectacular way is so much fun. (Sorry, Mel.) As for the 3D, well, it's downright phenomenal, and arguably the best and most revolutionary since the one used in James Cameron 3D sensation, "Avatar". To be fair, the acting is way better than what you would expect. The naturally-talented Shia LaBeouf turns in another passionate and highly emotional performance as the likable and charismatic Sam Witwicky. With Megan Fox's character Mikaela being dropped, Sam now has a new love interest, played by the insanely gorgeous English model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. And, oh Lord, she's a more-than-worthy substitute! Rosie is not only twice as hot and sexy as Megan Fox, but she's also a better actress, and has a much stronger screen presence than her predecessor. However, the supporting performances are easily the acting highlight of the film. Patrick Dempsey shines as the handsome, yet vicious rich man Dylan; Frances McDormand gives a stellar performance as the suspicious National Intelligence Director, Mearing; Julie White and Kevin Dunn once again deliver the laughs as the peculiar, yet incredibly sympathetic parents of Sam, but it's John Malkovich that steals the whole show as the quirky boss, Bruce Brazos.

Overall summary: The third installment in the mega-successful franchise may be an overblown mess, but "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is also the most entertaining, spectacularly action-packed and visually-stunning movie of 2011 so far, and hands down, the guiltiest cinematic pleasure of the summer.