Tranformers: Revenge of the Fallen a Review

The main characters return from the previous film, mainly Sam, his parents, Mikaela, Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, and Ironhide.The character development is gradual, with many of them displaying a broad range of emotions. There are times when I felt as if I was right beside the characters. It's pretty cool of the director to portray Sam as a regular kid. But kids also grow up, and Sam is now in college. Throughout the film he shows doubt sometimes, but eventually he matures and takes responsibility. Mikaela, Sam's girlfriend, doesn't change much.

The plot is well thought out, everything making sense and holding together very well. The title of the film is really what it's about: Revenge of the Fallen. And what a story it is. A lot of things are revealed about the Autobots and the Decepticons that are relevant to what is going on. But it isn't confusing, the plot unravels at a good pace. The human element in the film, mainly the Marines, Navy, and FBI are well involved with what the aliens are doing on Earth.

Cinematography: My favorite part. The camera work is awesome! There are many close-ups on the robots and humans as well. Most of the time the camera doesn't stays still. It is constantly moving. In this film, there are few scenes when it is still. The first scenes are bright and well lit. Bright colors are everywhere. Everything feels lighthearted, like everything is rosy. Towards the middle of the film, colors are more subdued, and less light is shown. This gives you a feeling of uncertainty. Then, when battle locations are changed, colors are more drab. Light abounds, but it's harsh. It's like you can feel the sun rays itself beating down upon you. In the battle scenes, it seems like the camera is going to get crushed. It's that intense! There are many locations in this film and every one of them look authentic.

Where to start on the special effects? As usual, the Autobots and the Deceptions look amazing. Transformation time is shorter. It even look smoother. Sometimes the camera shows close-ups of their faces and the detail is amazing. Explosions? None are lacking here. The pyrotechnic team did a good job. When buildings get destroyed or debris start flying, it is done on a grand scale. So have you seen the preview with that big robot with the one wheel? Well, just be prepared to be amazed. None of it looks fake, and people can be seen being blown up about or tossed.
Sound effects are pretty good in this film. The robots voices seem more urgent and deeper compared to the last film. There are a few scenes that really made your jaw drop.

All in all it is a very moving touching story. There were times when the audience gasped or clapped because their emotions were right there with the characters.

Gecko Joe, Transformers 2: A Review Associated Press