Transformers (2007)

Last updated:
October 20, 2024

Transformers (2007) marks the beginning of Michael Bay’s explosive and action-packed franchise based on the beloved Hasbro toy line. This movie brought giant robots to life in a way no one had seen before, combining cutting-edge CGI with over-the-top action.

Detailed Summary

Introduction: The War on Cybertron

The movie opens with a narration from Optimus Prime (voiced by Peter Cullen) explaining the history of the Autobots and Decepticons, two warring factions of alien robots from the planet Cybertron. Their battle centers around the “AllSpark,” a powerful artifact capable of creating life. The Decepticons, led by Megatron, want to use it for evil, while the Autobots seek to protect it.

Sam Witwicky’s New Car

Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) is a regular high school student trying to impress his crush, Mikaela Banes (Megan Fox). He buys his first car, which turns out to be Bumblebee, a friendly Autobot sent to Earth to protect him. This is where Sam’s life changes forever, as he becomes caught up in the intergalactic war between Autobots and Decepticons.

The Arrival of the Autobots

Soon, more Autobots arrive on Earth, including Optimus Prime, Ironhide, Ratchet, and Jazz. They reveal to Sam that his great-great-grandfather, Captain Archibald Witwicky, accidentally discovered Megatron frozen in the Arctic and unknowingly imprinted the location of the AllSpark on his glasses. Sam now holds the key to finding the AllSpark.

The Decepticons Strike

The Decepticons are also on Earth, searching for the AllSpark. Led by Starscream, they launch a coordinated attack on human military installations and eventually target Sam and the Autobots. Frenzy, one of the Decepticons, infiltrates the government network to track down the AllSpark, causing chaos along the way.

Battle for the AllSpark

The final act of the movie takes place in Mission City, where both sides fight to gain control of the AllSpark. The battle features mind-blowing sequences of destruction as the Autobots and Decepticons clash in an urban environment. Optimus Prime faces off against Megatron in an epic duel, while Sam is tasked with keeping the AllSpark out of Decepticon hands.

Movie Ending

In the climactic battle, Sam manages to defeat Megatron by pushing the AllSpark into his chest, overloading his circuits and destroying him. The Autobots manage to stop the Decepticon threat (for now), and the remaining Autobots decide to stay on Earth, vowing to protect it from future danger. Optimus Prime sends a message to other Autobots across the galaxy to join them on Earth.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

Yes, Transformers (2007) does have a mid-credits scene. In this brief sequence, Starscream, one of the main Decepticons, is seen flying off into space, setting up the potential for his return in future films.

Type of Movie

Transformers is a sci-fi action film, full of explosive battles, high-stakes chases, and plenty of robot-on-robot violence. It blends elements of science fiction, adventure, and fantasy, with a touch of humor (mostly through Sam’s character).

Cast

Shia LaBeouf as Sam Witwicky
Megan Fox as Mikaela Banes
Josh Duhamel as Captain Lennox
Tyrese Gibson as Sergeant Epps
Jon Voight as Secretary of Defense John Keller
John Turturro as Agent Simmons
Peter Cullen as the voice of Optimus Prime
Hugo Weaving as the voice of Megatron

Film Music and Composer

The film score was composed by Steve Jablonsky, known for his work with Michael Bay. The score adds dramatic weight to the action scenes, and his iconic theme for the Autobots became synonymous with the franchise. The movie also features rock tracks, most notably “What I’ve Done” by Linkin Park, which played during the end credits.

Filming Locations

Los Angeles, California: Several key scenes, including Sam’s high school and his home, were shot in LA.
Hoover Dam, Nevada: Hoover Dam plays a central role in the film, as it houses the frozen Megatron and the AllSpark.
White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico: The opening battle scenes involving the military were filmed here, providing the vast desert backdrop for the Decepticon attack.

These locations are crucial to the plot, providing both a sense of real-world geography and a dramatic backdrop for the battle between the Autobots and Decepticons.

Awards and Nominations

Transformers was nominated for three Academy Awards in technical categories:

Best Sound Mixing
Best Sound Editing
Best Visual Effects

Although it didn’t win, the film was widely praised for its groundbreaking CGI and sound design.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Michael Bay originally turned down the film, thinking it was just a “toy movie,” but producer Steven Spielberg convinced him otherwise.
The CGI for the Transformers took up to 38 hours per frame to render, making it one of the most complex effects projects of its time.
Megan Fox had to undergo a rigorous physical training regimen to prepare for the stunts and action scenes.
Bumblebee was originally a Volkswagen Beetle in the cartoon, but Bay changed it to a Camaro to avoid comparisons to Herbie the Love Bug.

Inspirations and References

The movie is based on the Transformers toy line and animated series created by Hasbro. The storyline draws from the 1984 animated series The Transformers and the Marvel Comics series of the same name.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There were no alternate endings released, but several deleted scenes were included in the DVD extras. One such scene involved more interaction between the Autobots, which was cut to keep the film’s pacing tighter.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film was adapted into a novel, and like many adaptations, some small details differ. The novel delves deeper into the mythology of the Transformers and offers more backstory, particularly about the war on Cybertron and the history of the AllSpark.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The first time Bumblebee transforms from car to robot.
The Autobots arriving on Earth and revealing themselves to Sam.
The battle between Optimus Prime and Megatron in the streets of Mission City.

Iconic Quotes

Optimus Prime: “Autobots, roll out!”
Optimus Prime: “Freedom is the right of all sentient beings.”
Sam Witwicky: “No sacrifice, no victory!”

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The license plate on Bumblebee’s car is “900 STRA,” a reference to Streetwise, another Transformer character from the original series.
The phrase “More Than Meets the Eye” is a nod to the classic Transformers animated series intro.
Optimus Prime’s original voice actor, Peter Cullen, reprised his role for the movie, much to the delight of long-time fans.

Trivia

The sound of the Autobots transforming was created using real sounds from machines, jet engines, and even hydraulic presses.
The original design for Megatron was much bulkier, but Bay wanted him to look more streamlined and terrifying.
A total of 13 Transformers appear in the film, with Bumblebee being the fan favorite.

Why Watch?

You should watch Transformers for its mind-blowing visual effects, fast-paced action, and a surprisingly charming performance from Shia LaBeouf. It’s an ideal mix of sci-fi, nostalgia, and explosive action.