Paramount Pictures | Release Date: December 21, 2018
6.9
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Generally favorable reviews based on 595 Ratings
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405
Mixed:
119
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71
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9
Player2-WaterDec 24, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. E-Value: 9
Acting: 9
Plot: 8

Unlike the previous Transformers movies, this movie features fan favourite character, Bumblebee, as the main lead character in his very own solo movie. In addition, this movie also serves as a spin-off and prequel to 2007’s Transformers.

In the planet Cybertron, two factions consist of Decepticons and Autobots are fighting in the Great Cybertronian War. With the Decepticons gaining the upper hand in the war, Optimus Prime, the leader of the Autobots, tells the other Autobots including Bumblebee to evacuate the planet. Bumblebee is sent to Earth where he must set up a base of operations where the Autobots can regroup while Optimus stays behind and will meet up with him soon.

Reaching Earth, Bumblebee crash-lands in California where Sector 7 lieutenant, Jack Burns (Cena), and his team attack him due to presume him as hostile invader. A Decepticons, Blitzwing, ambush Bumblebee and destroys his voicebox and memory core in the process. Despite this, he manage to destroy Blitzwing but being wounded from from the fight, he scans a nearby 1967 Volkswagen Beetle before entering stasis.

Sometime later, a trouble teenager named Charlie Watson (Steinfeld) finds a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle from a workshop and takes it back to her house where she discovers the car’s true identity. Soon, she starts to bond with him and even teach Bumblebee to talk through using radio. Meanwhile, two Decepticons, Shatter (Bassett) and Dropkick, arrive on Earth and made contact with Sector 7 under the guise of peacekeeper to ask for their help to track down Bumblebee.

Having watched all of the previous Transformers movies, I felt this is so much better than the other instalments except the first one. This movie sticks much closer to original design of the Transformers cartoon from the 1980s. It is also very nostalgic for those who are big fan of the cartoon because the movie is set in 1987. Even the transforming sound effects from the cartoon are used which makes it even more nostalgic.

The performance of the casts is good this movie especially John Cena. From wrestler to actor, his acting skills have been improved. His performance in this movie is simply amazing and it is much better than his previous live-action movies while he was still a wrestler. Unlike the previous instalments, the main female lead character in this movie is not over-sexualised for the sake of fanservice. The movie is quite fun and have many funny moments which is very well utilised better than how it was in the previous instalments.

Despite being billed as a prequel, I have noticed that there are many inconsistencies in the continuity throughout the movie. If you have watched all the previous movies, you would have spotted those errors easily. It made me wonder if this movie is supposed to be a prequel or reboot and at this point, it is really unclear. Only the next movie will tell whether or not it is a reboot after all. Whatever the plan for this franchise, I am hoping the next movie will do better like this one.
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7
DunkaccinoJun 22, 2023
An entertaining mix of brainless robot action and a coming-of-age subplot. Also some fish-out-of-water moments that play like a 1990s Disney fantasy movie. Reminds us why the Transformers franchise became so popular in the first place.
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9
ellisvgodMay 28, 2023
this movie rise transformers out of the dark and this is the best transformers movie of all time
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6
HabibiehakimApr 22, 2023
Bumblebee was for me a movie that goes from good, to ok, to just super cheesy, the first 30 minutes was good, the next 30 minutes was ok, and the rest hour was meh, to have a real drama story in a Transformers movie or at least in a movie setBumblebee was for me a movie that goes from good, to ok, to just super cheesy, the first 30 minutes was good, the next 30 minutes was ok, and the rest hour was meh, to have a real drama story in a Transformers movie or at least in a movie set in Transformers world is what many people wanted to, but when it's too much drama and especially it fills with uninteresting characters like Memo that his chemistry and relationship with Charlie i didn't buy at all, cheesy dialogue and scene that they didn't have in the first hour, and unused character like John Cena where i felt they supposed to make him more villainous and menacing as the two Decepticons, that's basically my whole problem with the movie, also too few action, but when it was on it was great, i like it, Hailee character was likeable enough, Bumblebee was cute, the two Decepticons was menacing, i like the first hour, i was entertained mostly, and the most importantly i was not bored at all and that was a major pros, overall i didn't hate Bumblebee but it still a very flawed film, it's basically for me a too few action and too much drama movie, the two didn't balanced perfectly, but it's still nice to feel a new atmosphere with the new director and the reboot of the franchise, hopefully it's getting better. Expand
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5
liamexeFeb 12, 2023
substantial potential The cast, animation, and premise of this film were all good, yet it appeared as though every actor was a rookie.
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6
GIjOE54Feb 10, 2023
Bumblebee can best be summarized as two steps forward, two steps back. It’s story is much more polished and highbrow compared to the Michael Bay Transformers films, cutting out unnecessary crass humor and poor arc development, but still fallsBumblebee can best be summarized as two steps forward, two steps back. It’s story is much more polished and highbrow compared to the Michael Bay Transformers films, cutting out unnecessary crass humor and poor arc development, but still falls victim to extremely insufferable and often pointless human characters as well as relying on bad decisions to forward the plot. CGI is a bit more cartoony compared to previous films and may be deliberately so, which could be good or bad depending on the viewer’s point of view, but still looks fantastic. Soundtrack and sound design is serviceable, but nothing as iconic as Steve Jablonsky’s first Transformers soundtrack or as good as Bay’s sound editing either. Overall, it falls on the better end of the Transformers film spectrum, but that’s a pretty low bar to clear. Expand
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7
ScryptkeeperFeb 10, 2023
Right out of the gate, “Bumblebee” sets the stage for an exciting action-driven experience by visiting the Transformers’ home planet and displaying their civil war first-hand. Throughout the run time of the film, the strife between the twoRight out of the gate, “Bumblebee” sets the stage for an exciting action-driven experience by visiting the Transformers’ home planet and displaying their civil war first-hand. Throughout the run time of the film, the strife between the two factions is ingrained into narrative, which is both a relief and a departure from the human-centric focus of the prior films. Though the plot stumbled at points and could have streamlined its focus by pruning unnecessary scenes in favor of developing some of its side characters, the film overall is a cohesive thrillride from start to finish.

Concerning the plot, the story focuses on the titular character of “Bumblebee” as he struggles to adjust to a life on Earth amidst carrying out a directive he himself has forgotten; all the while avoiding conflict with the looming threat of the military and the Decepticon forces. Joining him in this endeavor is Charlie, a budding mechanic with her own demons to conquer stemming from the loss of her father. For the most part, both of these characters play off of each other well, though not every scene in which they were together was necessary. For example, a filler scene in which they were conversing in a forest could have been trimmed and reincorporated into another scene and nothing would have been missed. Issues of that nature aside, the film does a good job at slowly building the conflict with the aforementioned antagonists through a natural progression of events. The tension between Charlie and her family is likewise fulfilled with a logical arch, eventually resolving itself with a surprising conclusion that felt unexpectedly wholesome.

In terms of the characters, “Bumblebee” is depicted as a clunky alien who must adapt to his surroundings in order to survive. This led to a number of scenes that were equal parts humorous and awkward, though built into the journey of him rediscovering his voice and his role in a conflict larger than himself. Charlie, on the other hand, adopted a more brooding and stiff persona that made it difficult to enjoy her role; though not to the detriment of being unable to sympathize with her conflicts. There was a genuine growth between her and her family in the latter portion of the film that created a good balance with what preceded it, all of which culminates in a satisfying conclusion for her role. The two primary Decepticon’s that hunt Bumblebee were also quite compelling and dynamic with the only oversight in their development being that the movie strangely never identifies them by name. The greatest crime in characterization, however, comes from the acquaintance of Charlie that constantly followed her around and has an unexplained crush on her. This was frustratingly never fleshed out, as was the character himself, leaving his purpose in the story to be questionable at best. Even a simple line connecting him with the diving events of her past would have remedied this.

As far as the aesthetics were concerned, the transformation sequences were immersive and found a logical footing within the choreography of the fight sequences. That is to say, that the shift between humanoid and vehicle forms in combat felt deliberate with each combatant utilizing them to gain a distinct advantage whenever they occurred. The tone throughout the film retained a serious edge despite the goofy antics Bumblebee displayed early on, which was a notable improvement over the crass-heavy overtones of the film trilogy preceding it. Additionally, the suspension of disbelief never felt off the charts aside from Charlie’s plot-armor against explosions; something that should have been polished to be more believable.

In conclusion, what made this film a good watch was its deliberate shift in focus on the series’ namesake over the trivial happenings of random humans. While these side stories still existed, they never overthrew the primary narrative of the conflict between the Autobot’s and Decepticon’s; serving more as background elements than ramblings for the sake of ramblings. Though more fine-tuning could have been applied here and there, the overall execution was solid.
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8
TAPRNov 5, 2022
Que filme divertido! Vivi pra dizer que um filme dos Transformers com o John Cena é melhor que os dois filmes dos Transformers com o Mark Wahlberg. Aventura contida e simples, o famoso 'Menos É Mais'. Dá vontade né, Michael Bay?
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10
The_D4RknesSJul 28, 2022
This robot has the personality of a child and for that fact the movie is great and all the bad moments that the robot goes through are anguish.
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5
siggi104Jul 9, 2022
Not trash, not great, just aight. It's whatever. Typical AAA filler movie whiteout any soul to farm some money. Wouldn't have written a review if I hadn't seen it in a theater.
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9
broadcasterg1Jun 17, 2022
Transformers: The Movie is still best to me, Bumblebee is also great movie to me.
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10
Esteban20Jun 14, 2022
Halie Steinfeld was the best actress and singer ever made in the star of Bumblebee!
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7
MrPajamasJun 4, 2022
I am very pleasantly surprised. Especially after my disgust with the fifth episode. Bumblebee was something new. Less action and I liked that a lot because I thought the fifth episode was overdone. This one suited me. It reminded me of theI am very pleasantly surprised. Especially after my disgust with the fifth episode. Bumblebee was something new. Less action and I liked that a lot because I thought the fifth episode was overdone. This one suited me. It reminded me of the first Transformers. Again, there was some autobot to human introductions and it was very well done in my opinion. To top it all off, I really liked the setting in the 80's, which opened up the space for some proper music, which I also found to be over the top in the previous installments. Here, however, that is no longer the case and they played some hits here and there, so I was satisfied, although I think they didn't have to worry about that and could have squeezed a bit more classical music out of that era. Bottom line. I was satisfied. After all the disappointments since the fourth episode, I was pleased. For me, a good movie that I wouldn't be afraid to recommend to fans of the franchise. Expand
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10
KelvinSelimorApr 25, 2022
Bumblebee. A completely new take on Transformers. A sweet and kind family film in which there is practically no such drive as in the entire previous series of films. Special praise for the amazing soundtrack. As well as beautiful views of California.
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4
DarkwingSchmuckMar 23, 2022
The best live-action Transformers movie, as if that's saying much at all. Hailee Steinfeld adds some much needed humanity and dignity to this franchise, but other than that, this is just another soulless studio blockbuster.
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7
gracjanskiFeb 13, 2022
What a pity. This movie could be such a great movie:
Finally we have well written characters, especially the sadness of Charlie was touching several times, also the friendship to Bumblebee. The scenes from Cybertron were nice and the story
What a pity. This movie could be such a great movie:
Finally we have well written characters, especially the sadness of Charlie was touching several times, also the friendship to Bumblebee. The scenes from Cybertron were nice and the story before Transformers 1 was interesting. In addition the 80s feeling was great, it worked in Guardians of Galaxy and here it is even better, because of the funny answers by Bumblebee through old music.
And finally the movie was under 2 hours and not 2,5 hours.

But...it is so feministic...Almost every scene is with Hailee Steinfeld as Charlie and of course she is so strong, deciding everything and is even better in male dominated stuff, blabla. Memo is so weak of course.
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8
DawdlingPoetNov 22, 2021
I enjoyed this film mainly for the 1980s pop music featured (It made me a little nostalgic for (what I remember of) the 1980s - I remember wanting to get a Transformer toy, for one thing), although the CGI effects aren't too bad either andI enjoyed this film mainly for the 1980s pop music featured (It made me a little nostalgic for (what I remember of) the 1980s - I remember wanting to get a Transformer toy, for one thing), although the CGI effects aren't too bad either and John Cena is somewhat amusing as agent Burns, a typically macho American soldier/agent. As a bit of escapist, family friendly fun, its certainly good enough to pass just under a couple of hours. I liked the landscape, panorama shots (i.e. the cinematography isn't bad). Its an entertaining enough film which is worth a watch, yes. Frankly I wasn't expecting much, hence my rating - oh and the fact that the main (non-CGI, i.e. human) character is a girl, in a sci-fi film, is pretty cool. Oh and (coincidentally) the fact that the robot is disguised as a car, which happens to be a VW Beetle, of course makes me think of the various Herbie films (The Love Bug, Herbie Rides Again etc.), which I loved as a child in the early 90s, just after this film was set in. Expand
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10
BumbfuzzleNov 7, 2021
Don’t listen to bad reviews this movie is a 80s movie and I loved everything about it. Raised my expectations for the sequel and is a perfect example of what a live action adaptation should be and look like.
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9
RexloxSep 28, 2021
Bumblebee is the movie that the franchise needed and at the same time the one that the public deserved.
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9
yellowpensorezSep 27, 2021
Наконец-то хороший фильм про Трансформеров, такой должна была быть сага о Майкле Бэе.
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10
pur__0_0__Aug 22, 2021
Suppose you have to make a movie on Barbie. So, what do we know about her? She's beautiful, she's the symbol of feminine, she goes on adventures. Now suppose if these characteristics were taken and Barbie was turned into a porn film series,Suppose you have to make a movie on Barbie. So, what do we know about her? She's beautiful, she's the symbol of feminine, she goes on adventures. Now suppose if these characteristics were taken and Barbie was turned into a porn film series, how would it feel? Wrong, right? Toys are supposed to be the emotions of children. So they have to be given characteristics and emotions, and not just mash them together and throw in a joke after every two lines. This is exactly the problem with the Transformers franchise, and that's what this movie has fixed.
One really good thing about this movie is that unlike many character-driven movies like Sonic the Hedgehog or Cars, Bumblebee has not only ben about his relationship with other people. It is a major plot point, yes, but other than that there's also Cybertron, where the Autobots are fighting a lost cause. So this gives a sense of time constraint to the movie. If it wastes too much time the Decepticons will come on Earth and attack the humans. There are occasional warnings like that guy's pickup truck being smashed.
Because of this the humans have been properly intertwined with the consequences. While Bumblebee is spending time with Charlie, he also has to learn the ways in which he must behave if he needs the humans to trust him. Charlie knows about the Cybertron attack but she can't let Bumblebee run in the open otherwise the military will take him away. The military thinks that Bumblebee is a bad guy because the Decepticons told them. There is also Charlie's friend Memo who helps her in the adventure. Overall everyone has an important part to play in this movie. And this is how it should be since the humans are in the movies for the majority of the runtime so they shouldn't be cringy to watch.
The only thing this movie was lacking was Michael Bay's action scenes. I'd have preferred if they allowed Bay to stay for the fight scenes, but let Travis Knight do the rest. The action scenes and their choreography were given a nod every time Cybertron was shown. In fact, the movie begins on Cybertron itself. The fight between Bumblebee and Shatter and Dropkick clearly made it seem like how Bumblebee is struggling to keep up with them as the military is also intervening their fight.
The character development of not just Bumblebee, but Charlie is also seen in the movie. In all the previous five Transformers movies, there was little to no character development, which is what made us stop caring about them. We already knew Optimus Prime will always be the good guy who will fight everyone and win (remember the Martha scene from the Last Knight where Bumblebee suddenly starts speaking and Optimus suddenly becomes a good guy?) and Megatron will be the generic bad guy. Here we have Bumblebee trying to cope with his new life, Charlie trying to get over her fear, Memo trying to impress her and Agent Burns who learns to trust the aliens.
We just need a few more movies like Bumblebee and the Transformers franchise will come back on track. We have seen the character development of one Autobot, now Optimus Prime should be the next one and then possibly Megatron to give his point of view. Finally we have gone over Sam Witwicky and Cade, who had the most one dimensional personalities. Now it's all about Charlie.
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8
alejandro970Jun 26, 2021
Without Michael Bay as director, it makes a huge difference. The plot has the luxury of combining action with comedy and nostalgia for the 80s in a fluid way without overdoing it. As weekend entertainment, it works and very well.
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6
MattBrady99Mar 17, 2021
While incredibly flawed, but it's just refreshing that we finally got a live action Transformers movie that wasn't directed by Michael Bay. It at least opens new doors for other film markers to come in and make something decent, hopefully.While incredibly flawed, but it's just refreshing that we finally got a live action Transformers movie that wasn't directed by Michael Bay. It at least opens new doors for other film markers to come in and make something decent, hopefully. And man, Hailee Steinfeld really gave it her all in this. Expand
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10
TRANSFORMERSFANMar 11, 2021
Best Prequel Ever! Based on michael bay´s Transformers! one of the best movies from 2018 along with avengers infinity war!
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0
Sweeney-ToddFeb 13, 2021
nobody asked for this. I stopped watching the transformers series for obvious reasons, and I was hoping this soft reboot would reignite my love for the franchise... it did not
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10
Flori19Feb 12, 2021
This movie is the best transformer movie. It's faithful to the G1 cartoons. I like the old 80s setting. The explains Bumblebee's backstop perfectly. This movie deserves a 10/10.
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10
YuveneeshOct 3, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great movie. Really loved all the characters. Hope to see more like this in the future Expand
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9
adriantorresAug 31, 2020
This movie is so fun to watch it's way better than the Michael bay movies. All of the characters are likeable. The fights scenes are really cool
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10
ZippyblipAug 27, 2020
Finally an exciting, joyful and most of all human live-action transformers movie. Obviously made by people who actually understand the source material. Took me back to my 80’s childhood me. Loved it and I hope more to come.
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7
Mrman69Jul 27, 2020
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8
DoomtheWhiteJul 20, 2020
Definitely better than Michael Bay Transformers. This is a good step forward for the next Transformers movies. Very nostalgic seeing the robots based on the G1 design. Thank you so much for making this movie.
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10
Dostoyevsky3May 20, 2020
With the help of a transformers spin-off that finally obliterates sexually objectified damsels and instead showcases a leading heroine with a sweet and lovable connection with the titular character that makes this the only actually decentWith the help of a transformers spin-off that finally obliterates sexually objectified damsels and instead showcases a leading heroine with a sweet and lovable connection with the titular character that makes this the only actually decent film to appear out of this horrendously bloated blockbuster franchise. Bumblebee does its fan-base a favor and gives something to appreciate out of its familiar yet still friendly and fun vibe forming a brighter and more lighthearted experience that elevates it by a colossal landslide above its atrocious predecessors. Expand
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9
PalpetineSheevMar 20, 2020
*Insert generic witty comment about this film being more than meets the eye*
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
Smiler_0Jan 26, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️my baby John cena I love you so much
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8
Rick-CastJan 15, 2020
A breath of fresh air away from the awful Bayverse. This film feels like a real Transformers film with excellent action(that you can see), lovable human character and recognizable characters in the beginning of the film.
I pray this is the
A breath of fresh air away from the awful Bayverse. This film feels like a real Transformers film with excellent action(that you can see), lovable human character and recognizable characters in the beginning of the film.
I pray this is the first step to making a good Transformers series closer to the originals with G1 style characters.
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8
MaxPayneIsGodJan 12, 2020
The best Transformer movie since the first one, the 80s throwback is a warm welcome.
Everything is relatively as you'd expect, the story is nothing special but on a whole its a really enjoyable family friendly movie.
The only downer was the
The best Transformer movie since the first one, the 80s throwback is a warm welcome.
Everything is relatively as you'd expect, the story is nothing special but on a whole its a really enjoyable family friendly movie.
The only downer was the generic Decepticons, they should've used more well known characters as the antagonists.
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9
NoahPfisterFeb 27, 2019
Is Bumblebee the Transformers movie we've been waiting for? Yes. Plain and simple. Is it a perfect movie? No. Unfortunately not, as Bumblebee does suffer heavily from other downsides of previous Transformers movies...But that's also notIs Bumblebee the Transformers movie we've been waiting for? Yes. Plain and simple. Is it a perfect movie? No. Unfortunately not, as Bumblebee does suffer heavily from other downsides of previous Transformers movies...But that's also not really a bad thing here. While more focus is put onto the human characters, I found myself annoyed and yet intrigued. I actually cared what happened to them, I cared if they made it out okay. This more human and personal story that this movie offers is quite fitting, and I found myself enjoying almost every single bit of it. The opening made me feel like I was watching the cartoon, which is already a sign that it's better than Bay's vision, and from then on, I had a blast. Travis Knight is in fact the Last Knight that the previous movie spoke of as he has personally saved the Transformers franchsie from being an absolte ********* of ****. I'll keep this brief as I want to watch the movie again, so I'll simply say, watch it, then watch it again as it appears that while this is a prequel to the original Transformers movie, by the end, you realize something spectacular...they rebooted it. The next Transformers movie...will be good. And I gotta say, there's a bright future beyond the horizon of Cybertron, and I await to see what it brings. Also Dylan O'Brien is awesome as Bumblebee...even if it is for--like--ten seconds. Expand
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9
JPKNov 26, 2019
Fantastic
Bumblebee is emotional, fun, down to earth, and very well written.
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0
greggmanOct 22, 2019
This is one of the worst movies I've ever watched. Well, half warched as it was so bad I couldn't finish even though I was just trying to kill time on a flight. I have to assume any reviewer with half a brain didn't see the movie and the restThis is one of the worst movies I've ever watched. Well, half warched as it was so bad I couldn't finish even though I was just trying to kill time on a flight. I have to assume any reviewer with half a brain didn't see the movie and the rest were paid shills. There's on way an honest reviewer wouldn't be reeling at the giant plot holes and other problems with the first half of the movie (assume the 2nd half is more of the same). Just awful. I get it's a transformers movie but come on! no excuse for it to be this bad Expand
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1
runner451275Oct 13, 2019
utter trash! The movie promises a lot in the first 10 minutes. It shows why bumblebee became bumblebee. but then the following 50 minutes its about this stupid girl and her dad and her family that i dont give a crap about. it should be allutter trash! The movie promises a lot in the first 10 minutes. It shows why bumblebee became bumblebee. but then the following 50 minutes its about this stupid girl and her dad and her family that i dont give a crap about. it should be all about bumblebee but this movie portrays the girl more often than bumblebee. It feels like bumblebee is a extra in the movie and not the main charachter. im giving it a 1 just because of only the beginning of the movie. So sad, again a great concept turned to trash. Great job director! Expand
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7
Ahmed_AlwazirOct 12, 2019
It's a fresh Transformers movie. It's not about action and explosions, it's all about the connection between humans and robots, and between robots and their origins. But, the acting choices could've been better.
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8
MarkHReviewsDec 28, 2018
Compared to the other installments in the Transformer series, “Bumblebee” is “Macbeth.” This movie is good enough that we won’t even be diverted by the multitude of opportunities for bad puns – the early buzz about the show – it’s just anCompared to the other installments in the Transformer series, “Bumblebee” is “Macbeth.” This movie is good enough that we won’t even be diverted by the multitude of opportunities for bad puns – the early buzz about the show – it’s just an embarrassment of riches.

The first five Transformer films, all directed by Michael Bay, seemed to focus on two primary target audiences: post-adolescent males who wanted to drool over Megan Fox or her interchangeable replacement female while living in their parents’ basements, or viewers who would later beg their parents to buy them the action figures.

In this movie, Director Travis Knight (son of Nike founder Phil Knight; previously directed “Kubo and the Two Strings”) decided to inject two previously missing elements: artful dialogue and humanity. All that’s good about this film, and there’s a lot, revolves around Hailee Steinfeld, who plays Charlie. Steinfeld first came to prominence in the remake of “True Grit,” (2010) for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. You may also have seen her in the last two segments of the “Pitch Perfect” trilogy as well as “The Edge of Seventeen” (2016). Steinfeld infuses this film with heart and humor, all wrapped into an attractive package of adolescent angst. Along the way, she receives able support from Pamela Adlon (so excellent in the “Californication” Showtime series) as her mother, Jorge Lendeborg, Jr. as Memo, her awkward love interest and John Cena who represents the military-industrial complex with all the dramatic range one has come to expect from the alumni of WWE. The story is forgettable. Bumblebee is an Autobot. After losing a key battle to the Decepticons (subtlety is not a strong point here), the remaining Autobots must disperse. Bumblebee hides out on the West Coast in 1987 disguised as a VW Beetle. Mayhem ensues. Earth saved. Roll credits. Fortunately, this film has much more in common with “ET” than with its predecessors. There are priceless moments, such as when Bumblebee adapts to the loss of his voice synthesizer by rapidly changing the channels on the radio to “talk” with Charlie. Along the way, there are a few life lessons thrown in about dealing with loss, adolescent peer pressure and a few other emotional odds and ends.

The late 80’s soundtrack is an extra bonus. We get a sampling of Bon Jovi, Duran, Tears for Fears, Steve Winwood, Simple Minds and others, plus an extra portion of The Smiths. These tunes are an excellent introduction for a majority of the audience, a pleasant, memorable undertone for the six mature adults who have chosen to attend.

“Bumblebee” offers a surprisingly fulfilling mix of humor, action and kindness. Don’t be put off by the mechanical acting in the previous installments. This is an affirmation for people with a full range of human emotions and a cautionary tale for Decepticons everywhere.
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10
NjinnahSep 21, 2019
Great family movie. The relationship between bumblebee and the main actress is very well established throughout the movie.
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9
WJ0067Sep 19, 2019
Heart, Fun, less mayham....Refreshing
It's a fun way to show off my favorite character Bee.
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8
Kevin3Sep 13, 2019
Muy buena película una apuesta diferente y mucho mejor que transformers, con una historia que contar y bumblebee es adorable
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6
ValBalAug 28, 2019
Finally a watchable Transformers movie. While Marvel films try to linger around across all age groups, Bumblebee targets kids. The films is not just set in the 80s, it borrows the structure of movies released within that decade as well.Finally a watchable Transformers movie. While Marvel films try to linger around across all age groups, Bumblebee targets kids. The films is not just set in the 80s, it borrows the structure of movies released within that decade as well. Meaning that Bumblebee is as predictable as it gets. Expand
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9
Alexandr2001Aug 19, 2019
Best since the first Transformers(2007)-simple,but interesting story,awesome action scenes on Cybertron and great main characters!Poorly that Decepticons still a cliche villains
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9
MasadaAug 16, 2019
It's not perfect, but it doesn't need to be. Bumblebee absolutely steels the show, his animation is the best anthropomorphization I've seen since WALL-E. The dialogue and pacing are the only detailed things that are lacking. Besides that thisIt's not perfect, but it doesn't need to be. Bumblebee absolutely steels the show, his animation is the best anthropomorphization I've seen since WALL-E. The dialogue and pacing are the only detailed things that are lacking. Besides that this is a must see that even brought a tear or two to my eyes. Expand
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9
MasterRileyAug 1, 2019
Bumblebee is my favourite of the Transformers movies, offering a more grounded and intimate story in the franchise. Hailee Steinfeld offers up a great performance as the lead and her relationship with Bumblebee is really touching. Taking muchBumblebee is my favourite of the Transformers movies, offering a more grounded and intimate story in the franchise. Hailee Steinfeld offers up a great performance as the lead and her relationship with Bumblebee is really touching. Taking much inspiration from ET, their relationship is cute and innocent as Bumblebee can't speak and must use body language and other means to communicate. Expand
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8
Lawdude7777Jul 31, 2019
One of the best in the franchise, held back by some ropey acting. Tons of action though!
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9
Amir55600Jul 13, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bumblebee was good film but not enough action scense i enjoing see this movie Expand
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3
ne0ticJun 22, 2019
Didn't really feel like a Transformers movie... Weren't that complex and the the action were, meh and the plot were just okay. Still better then The Last Knight but nowhere near as good as the other Transformers movies!
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5
bataguilaJun 12, 2019
Muy buenos efectos, pero la historia es mala, aburrida, sosa, y no da risa. Las batallas van empeorando, la 1ra escena es lo mejor de la peli.
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7
MeiLongDongMay 28, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first half was better than the second. The whole movie I was waiting for the Autobots to show up and help Bumblebee (like Optimus said he was going to do) but they never did. You catch them in the opening and that's it. So Bee pretty much gets his butt kicked the entire movie. The chemistry between Bee and Charlie is good enough with it's standard storytelling (so nothing too new or groundbreaking here) but overall good. The final battle was underwhelming with a couple of "yeah right" moments, but what made it worse was that Optimus nor anybody showed up to help. Expand
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5
TyranianMay 25, 2019
One big cliche and pretty dumb too. Pretty similar to the first Transformers film in many ways and very unoriginal.
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6
TronmegaMay 21, 2019
It was watchable for some parts, but too much cliches... so predictable. there are some improvements (especially for characters), but that doesn't change the fact this movie is mediocre movie. Also, there are so much plot holes that ruin theIt was watchable for some parts, but too much cliches... so predictable. there are some improvements (especially for characters), but that doesn't change the fact this movie is mediocre movie. Also, there are so much plot holes that ruin the whole film.(yeah it wasn't as much as the bay sequals but still.) Nothing special but better than the bay formers sequals.

Honest score: 6.5/10.

But anyway, this movie will be my second best tf movie. (The best one is 2007.)
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8
Wavy_YeezyMay 14, 2019
Never seen any of the transformer movies all the way through. I liked this one surprisingly well.
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7
VadertimeMay 6, 2019
It started out well enough, but then it slowed to a crawl. The back stories were great and it was wonderful to see Soundwave and some of the other baddies. The teenage angst and bonding was too stretched and unnecessarily forced. The endingIt started out well enough, but then it slowed to a crawl. The back stories were great and it was wonderful to see Soundwave and some of the other baddies. The teenage angst and bonding was too stretched and unnecessarily forced. The ending was okay as was the whole movie. Better than the messes produced by Michael Bay's creations, but a little slow in the story development. Okay for killing time one Saturday afternoon. Expand
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10
nestoryavithMay 5, 2019
10/10 right of the bat. Why? Because finally this franchise realizes its actual strengths and weaknesses. Graphics and sci-fi eye candy yes (Strength). Thinly written characters (weakness) well not anymore hopefully. Bumblebee is a well10/10 right of the bat. Why? Because finally this franchise realizes its actual strengths and weaknesses. Graphics and sci-fi eye candy yes (Strength). Thinly written characters (weakness) well not anymore hopefully. Bumblebee is a well written film and that alone is very refreshing in this franchise. I just hope it keeps things that way. Cena is always fun. Haley is extremely gifted. But bee in this movie is phenomenal. I love it. Keep it up. Expand
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3
yerubandiApr 18, 2019
all the previous transformer movies were horrible, but they were filled with action filled scenes and CGI. this movie lacks everything. very boring story line. very predictable story line and everything else is also lackluster...even my kidsall the previous transformer movies were horrible, but they were filled with action filled scenes and CGI. this movie lacks everything. very boring story line. very predictable story line and everything else is also lackluster...even my kids said the movie is boring. not sure why it got some much hype, glad i did not waste money at the theater and waited for the DVD. even renting a DVD is waste. Expand
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8
mrmonsterApr 14, 2019
This is definitely the best of the Transformers franchise. This is the first Transformers movie to really have the heart that a Transformers movie should have. I'd definitely recommend it.
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8
TomtagApr 13, 2019
This is definately the best of the Transformers franchise. The special effects are truly amazing and the content is great.
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9
VlayreichApr 13, 2019
Best Transformers movie yet! Hoping for a sequel. PLEASE NO MORE MICHAEL BAY! KEEP HIM AWAY!
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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3
joegernautApr 1, 2019
we loved it and got to see it in 3D ! The trailers ruined all the supersizes but it was still great . I just wish that 3D wasn't so hard to find . No 3D NO SELL !we loved it and got to see it in 3D ! The trailers ruined all the supersizes but it was still great . I just wish that 3D wasn't so hard to find . No 3D NO SELL ! . Expand
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5
SchroederRockMar 30, 2019
Noticeably better than the Transformers movies that have recently released but it still ended up being forgettable in the end. I can't imagine why better direction couldn't be secured for this film and why John Cena has to be cast in aNoticeably better than the Transformers movies that have recently released but it still ended up being forgettable in the end. I can't imagine why better direction couldn't be secured for this film and why John Cena has to be cast in a serious role. Love the guy but unless he has excellent direction I don't think he has much range of any kind outside of comedic-style roles. Expand
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2
AMasterpieceFanMar 26, 2019
Pure garbage! Terrible character actors selections. The story, which should be bumblebee's backstory didnt really like one since it was not focused on him. The plot holes of this movie are also horrendous. One example is how did the trash binPure garbage! Terrible character actors selections. The story, which should be bumblebee's backstory didnt really like one since it was not focused on him. The plot holes of this movie are also horrendous. One example is how did the trash bin where the MC is hiding didnt explode when it got hit by a MISSILE!! A **** missile and it only left a dent. HORRIBLE. The villains are also plain as a piece of paper without writing or anything. Didnt really feel like villains especially John Cena. His a dialogue and character are total joke. Ugh. Dont recommend this **** I bet all of us can make a better story than this one.

2/10
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8
IamDWGMar 21, 2019
Twelve years ago, the first film in the Transformers universe was released. I remember it like it was yesterday, laughing at the prospect of a movie based off of a child’s toy, thinking Hollywood has officially run out of ideas. Well, jury isTwelve years ago, the first film in the Transformers universe was released. I remember it like it was yesterday, laughing at the prospect of a movie based off of a child’s toy, thinking Hollywood has officially run out of ideas. Well, jury is still out on that last bit, but that initial shock that they would make a movie on the Transformers has transformed into more of an expectation. Including Bumblebee, six movies have been released in the universe, and it doesn’t seem to be letting up, no matter how much some people may be exhausted from them. That being said, it appears that majority of people not only love this movie, but consider it the best film in the entire universe. I don’t…but it’s near the top.

You can tell right away what they’re attempting to do in comparison to the other films in the universe, and I say attempting quite broadly. This film takes place in the latter half of the ’80s, so you know music is going to be littered in the movie, and that’s true enough. I even felt like this movie was a combination of films like The Iron Giant and E.T. both in tone and feel, right down to the main house the girl lives in. You have no problem believing they want this to feel like the ’80s, yet…I don’t ever feel like it IS the ’80s; not truly, anyway. Thankfully, that’s a non-issue. Other elements more than make up for that, but there’s one area that can’t escape criticism…that’s the fact that there is no goal, hence no plot. The Decepticons have a plot, which would’ve been fine if they were the protagonists, but they’re not.
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8
DeadlyMar 21, 2019
Bumblebee is easily the best Transformers movie, not only it brings back the old art style which was far better than that overdone style of the other movies, but it also has more character than all of them put together.
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2
imthenoobMar 21, 2019
What the movie did right was bring it back to basics and break the needlessly complicated story that Transformers was trying to create (especially with the Last Knight). What it did wrong was everything else.

There were bits of humour
What the movie did right was bring it back to basics and break the needlessly complicated story that Transformers was trying to create (especially with the Last Knight). What it did wrong was everything else.

There were bits of humour throughout, a few typical fight scenes that didn't really bring any excitement and a rather weak origin story that lacks depth and a solid villain. It's essentially a rather bare soft reboot to a failing franchise and while it's not as terrible as previous entries, It doesn't do enough to warrant any praise. It doesn't even break the mediocrity that the franchise has been bringing for years and that is this film's biggest failure IMO. And while I feel odd saying this, John Cena was the best part of the movie despite barely being in it. I think it was a big mistake not to feature him more due to his natural charisma and popularity.
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9
JinxterMetaMar 12, 2019
Travis Knight saves the Transformer from Michael Bays butchery.
Finally, iconic transformers are on the big screen and they look outstanding.
Looking forward to more Transformers from under Knights flag.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
LotapeterMar 17, 2019
Best Transformers movie made. the G1 look is 10000X better than anything Bay ever made. Hope they make a lot more Transformer movies like this one!
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8
RyanHerofTimeMar 13, 2019
This is the best Transformers movie so far! This movie feels like what the original cartoon was. It does not need any lame jokes to carry it, unlike the past movies needed. Action was fun, and you can tell they took some of that action fromThis is the best Transformers movie so far! This movie feels like what the original cartoon was. It does not need any lame jokes to carry it, unlike the past movies needed. Action was fun, and you can tell they took some of that action from the 1984 show. The characters were fun, a huge improvement from the other films. They felt real. It is a film I would recommend to see! Expand
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8
SkelemanMar 10, 2019
Bumblebee shows what the Transformers could have been all this time without Michael Bay: good.
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8
Mateo3112Mar 10, 2019
This movie improves on what little positive attributes the Michael Bay-formers movies had, and completely scrap all that was bad.
The music is nostalgic af, the robots distinguishable from one another, the camera steady during battles, and
This movie improves on what little positive attributes the Michael Bay-formers movies had, and completely scrap all that was bad.
The music is nostalgic af, the robots distinguishable from one another, the camera steady during battles, and they completely ditched the inappropriate jokes. This means that for once, people actually laughed ~out loud~ at the cinema.
It's not the best movie ever, but it's a solid foundation for possible sequels. And it brought back G1 toys, which I appreciate oh so much.
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1
Iann22Mar 10, 2019
This is a movie for children or to be specific for girls. The plot makes no sense the whole movie feels like a bunch of random events. White men are bad of course and all white girls should go for color. Bumblebee behaves like some abusedThis is a movie for children or to be specific for girls. The plot makes no sense the whole movie feels like a bunch of random events. White men are bad of course and all white girls should go for color. Bumblebee behaves like some abused dog, hiding in the corner minding eye contact, needs to be petted by the girl. Its not funny or serious. I really think if they would include animated characters like Bugs Bunny or Donald Duck it would be better, funnier. Like Bugs and Donald would sit in the back of the Beetle and throw eggs and toilet paper together with the main characters. The girl was pretty so I give it a 1. Expand
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8
AlienRendersMar 9, 2019
This was a fun movie. I found there were some logistical story issues, but this is Transformers after all. Bumblebee and the main character were a joy to watch. They captured the 90's feel.
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8
Brando217Mar 9, 2019
As a fan of the Transformers brand, Bumblebee proves heart and emotion can come from one of these movies. It's what fans needed and after five numb entries that are borderline unwatchable after this.
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1
mecheng03Mar 9, 2019
Terrible. This was so boring and I feel like I got tricked into just another teen/pre-teen love story/drama. Hardly any action and they might as well just change the title to the Girl's name and also featuring Herbie the Love Bee... Even myTerrible. This was so boring and I feel like I got tricked into just another teen/pre-teen love story/drama. Hardly any action and they might as well just change the title to the Girl's name and also featuring Herbie the Love Bee... Even my wife was bored throughout the entire movie. Her movie taste ranges from both Michael Baysplosion movies and chick flicks which is all you need to know. We stayed because we had ordered food at the Alamo Draft House but would have left if this was just a regular theater. Wait for Netflix to foot the bill, you'll thank me later. Expand
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8
SolartronMar 8, 2019
Bumblebee feels like a weight has been lifted off. It's refreshing to see what a Transformers film can do with a much better director. Travis Knight does a great job balancing action, emotion, and comedy into Bumblebee. The first two minutesBumblebee feels like a weight has been lifted off. It's refreshing to see what a Transformers film can do with a much better director. Travis Knight does a great job balancing action, emotion, and comedy into Bumblebee. The first two minutes sums up everything Transformers fans wanted. The connection between Charlie and Bumblebee is strong and something we rarely saw from Sam and Bumblebee after the first movie. The jokes were great, and some were not so great. Most importantly, it didn't feel awkward compared to Bay. My biggest problem with this film is that it doesn't know what the movie is about. There are references to the first film while completely contradicting it. Is it a reboot or a prequel? I understand why but it doesn't fit well. I would have rated this film much higher if the movie wasn't so inconsistent on that subject. Overall, it was a great movie that brings life into the franchise. Expand
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6
JoeCoolMar 8, 2019
Good action scenes, a seventies feel, just not quite interesting enough story-wise and too predictable to really grab your attention.
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2
Ben_RuckusMar 8, 2019
Mediocre acting all around. When the CGi out acts you, you know you have a problem. Paint by numbers movie. Considered a soft reboot of Transformers 1. We already saw a semi Bumblebee origin story in TF1. Worth seeing only if you get it forMediocre acting all around. When the CGi out acts you, you know you have a problem. Paint by numbers movie. Considered a soft reboot of Transformers 1. We already saw a semi Bumblebee origin story in TF1. Worth seeing only if you get it for free but not even worth picking up from the Bargain Bin. Expand
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7
GamalaMar 7, 2019
It's a pretty good movie. It has some issues with characters and super weapons that robots carry seem to do f''' all but some nice lightshow.
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3
CreolurMar 7, 2019
If you are an adult, expecting a good spin-off, and not planning to watch with your family (especially kids), better stay away from this one, the only good things in this movie are Jon Cena and Hailee Steinfeld (the female lead), such a wasteIf you are an adult, expecting a good spin-off, and not planning to watch with your family (especially kids), better stay away from this one, the only good things in this movie are Jon Cena and Hailee Steinfeld (the female lead), such a waste of talents Expand
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7
RONSAIDITMar 5, 2019
a very watchable film, good visuals, good story lead actor Abby Quinn did a good job
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6
PauloReviewsMar 5, 2019
So I wasn't even planning on seeing this one, as "Transformers: Age of Extinction" left an extremely bad taste in my mouth, but since I was invited to watch this film and the reviews were mostly positive, I thought to myself: "Uh, maybe it'llSo I wasn't even planning on seeing this one, as "Transformers: Age of Extinction" left an extremely bad taste in my mouth, but since I was invited to watch this film and the reviews were mostly positive, I thought to myself: "Uh, maybe it'll be fun". And it is, but it's also not a particularly engaging movie, unfortunately. I'm not a Transformers fan. I didn't bother to watch the 1986 animated feature. Quite honestly, I never liked the idea of seeing talking robots in the big screen as it feels as though it's just a long toy commercial. No substance or anything. Plus, the Michael Bay movies only made matters worse, as those movies are incomprehensible, pointless and borderline offensive.

With that being said, I still went into the theater expecting to see a good film. It wasn't directed by Bay, so it oughta be good. Good? No. Decent? Yes. I don't want to say I didn't have fun watching this movie. It certainly was entertaining for the most part. But it wasn't quite the game-changer it could have been. Mostly because of its unoriginal premise, some of the acting performances and cheesy plot elements. Now, the plot isn't exactly the most imaginative of all. Like critics and moviegoers have said, this film largely feels like an E.T. ripoff. This seems like something that would bring my score down a notch, but I honestly feel that although this movie was clichéd in some places, I think the characters' dynamic mostly made it up for it. There was solid chemistry between Charlie and Bumblebee and in fact, it might be the best thing this movie has to offer. Besides that, we have action sequences and while they are not especially memorable, I'm glad I can praise them simply because how much it differs from Bay's nonsensical directing style. There are no shaky cameras, no annoying lens flare or quick cuts. No disgusting yellowish color palette. The framing and shot composition are not extraordinary, but they are an improvement over the last 5 Transformers films' cinematography. While this movie boasts a more appealing look, it struggles a lot with narrative aspects. Without getting into spoiler-territory, the movie can sometimes make you question how and why things are happening. The military scenes are dumb and bear a resemblance to similar scenes in previous movies. Frankly, I couldn't take John Cena's character seriously and I feel like he was just there to provide another reason for people to see this movie. Another point that dragged me down was the humor. Maybe it's just me, but it seems that a lot of big blockbuster movies are trying very hard to make their audience laugh their asses off. I say this because the humorous scenes of the movie weren't exactly humorous, in my opinion. That happened because the jokes were very forced and poorly thought-out. Worse than that, they were unoriginal. Best case scenario, I chuckled a little bit. Worst case scenario, I cringed very hard. Another minor issue I had with the film is the main character's internal conflict (Charlie). Nothing wrong with the message itself, it's just that the writers could have found a better, more subtle way to show how Charlie goes from "being scared **** of diving into the pool" to "splash!".

This movie is not bad. But for anyone who's looking for a substantial experience, you should lower your expectations.

6/10.
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7
Live2RiseMar 5, 2019
It really does warm my heart to see the Transformers finally get some sort of actual groundwork get down with “Bumblebee”, as it offers a rustication, a new NEW start to the franchise let alone one that actually feels refreshing andIt really does warm my heart to see the Transformers finally get some sort of actual groundwork get down with “Bumblebee”, as it offers a rustication, a new NEW start to the franchise let alone one that actually feels refreshing and fulfilling. It’s not oversaturated, it’s not over-sexualized with ass shots anywhere, it’s not cut and chopped up like a blender, it’s not confusing in any way, shape or form, this is just a good old-fashioned action and coming of age story. The plot and story, despite being used directly from E.T, still work well enough with all the characters being used correctly, the special effects look well enough, the action sequences are still pretty cool to look it especially since you actually know what’s happening now and overall, it has a lot of heart, lot of soul and a lot of respect for the Transformers lore that is very nostalgia heavy in this film. Say what you will about this film copying the template from “E.T” and “The Iron Giant” But as much as it bugged me, it was still just as effective. While it still boggles my mind as to how we’ve only now gotten a good Transformers movie after this long, it really shouldn’t surprise me considering who was behind the directors chair and the basic formula this franchise has followed. Luckily for us, this is the best live-action Transformers movie that we have seen thus far. Any other potential sequels or prequels that come after this, I’ll have to take with a grain of salt. But for now, I can least be able to watch one good Transformers movie without feeling bad about it or being sick over it. Expand
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8
PipeCMar 3, 2019
The rebirth of a franchise that finds gold in regression.

I can say with absolute conviction that this is easily the best "Transformers" movie to date. Considering those responsible for such remarkable production, you could never picture
The rebirth of a franchise that finds gold in regression.


I can say with absolute conviction that this is easily the best "Transformers" movie to date.

Considering those responsible for such remarkable production, you could never picture the dazzling, moving end product. Bay, hated and loved equally, comes back, but just as a producer, which denotes a good, significant step up. An act of redemption by screenwriter Christina Hodson, guilty of shamefully careless screenplays such as "Unforgettable" by Denise Di Novi or "Shut In" by Farren Blackburn. Director Travis Knight is a wholly different story; nominated twice for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature for the lyrical stop-motion feats "Kubo and the Two Strings" and "The Boxtrolls." American singer Hailee Steinfeld has shaped an acting career brimming with victories, with an Oscar nomination for her practically flawless performance as Mattie Ross in Coen Brothers' "True Grit" and one Golden Globe for her unique Nadine in "The Edge of Seventeen," my favorite coming of age film— Bo Burnham's highly praised "Eighth Grade" is still waiting in my bucket list. — These are the heterogeneous ingredients of a film that surprises not only for its tonal metamorphosis with respect to its predecessors, but the heart, vigor, and simplicity the film uses to weave its story. "Bumblebee" is a nostalgia-driven adventure of unsuspected narrative force, focusing on ever-present themes that movies don't get tired of digging into and, why not, mixing up such as friendship, adolescence and growing up with a doubtless 80s flavor, a time the film takes advantage of. Setting it somewhere between the most fantastic John Carpenter, "Stripes," The Smiths and A-ha is the right time to get rid of any dispensable hassle, going back to basics and staying there, it's just Charlie and the 1967 Volkswagen Beetle in a survival race; zero Bayhem. The film takes its time to set up the underpinnings and to present our heroine's dramatic arch. She lives among abandoned vehicles, car relics, and teenager gloom; on her birthday, she ends up acquiring a beat-up, tiny yellow car, a vehicle that becomes her confidant, her bestie. We've already heard this story a thousand times, but let's face it: no one on planet Earth can resist clever, poignant feel-good movies, no matter time, place or mood, this always enjoyable sub-genre will get followers. Besides, due to Mr. Bay's pyrotechnic filmmaking, it was exciting to imagine such a story starring Bumblebee, in the 80s. The final result couldn't be better. Charlie receives a careful treatment, unfolding her wounds and trying to heal them so honestly that the most dramatic moments are painfully stabbing. Bumblebee receives a dignified narrative background as well: he and his species are being hunted by a pair of Decepticons, which allows displaying the high-sounding, better-handled action sequences with finesse. The funniest, most emotional, tender character-driven moments take place in the first forty-five minutes of footage. The story points at the big finale alongside, via small doses of the trademark complicated, sometimes unintelligible terminology and chronology. The set-pieces, as opposed to those of its predecessors, like the film itself, are much more restrained and compelling, not so groovy or showy because of a realism beautifully rendered with impressive digital effects that, even without high-resolution IMAX screens, endows action sequences with humanizing character. There is a good lack of predictability threatening to eliminate core characters just mid-story through unexpectedly raw images that kids will struggle to bear, excluding PG-13 carnage, a handful of murders amusingly reduced to plasma. Certain continuity, pace and editing errors should be attributed to editor Paul Rubell, however, as a coherent whole, it is a resonant, overly enjoyable popcorn film. Technically and artistically speaking, it's excellently made, the camera moves with finesse and puts special focus on the development scenes like this saga had never seen before, holding their feelings and tones and throwing them to the viewer; it's praiseworthy that every scene gets a precise treatment which justifies its place in the footage. The '80s references and easter-eggs are juicy and countless both physically and spiritually.

"Bumblebee" by Travis Knight gives life and hope to a franchise in its death throes through Steinfeld's charming, sincere performance, the heart of a script based on friendship and forgiveness, and the emotional narrative control that Travis stamps in all his movies. Without warning, the "Transformers" film franchise rises from the ashes, and despite its post-credits scene suggests a risky return formalized by Paramount Pictures' brand-new measures, it's better we rejoice now in the candor and simplicity of a film jam-packed with underlying shrewdness.
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1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
HealingToolboxFeb 27, 2019
Everything working pitch perfect here, especially the female lead. Not as much healthy Girl Power as Wonder Woman or Alita Battle Angel (go see it) but still a great deal of feminine woman feeling, thanks to the female lead, female scripterEverything working pitch perfect here, especially the female lead. Not as much healthy Girl Power as Wonder Woman or Alita Battle Angel (go see it) but still a great deal of feminine woman feeling, thanks to the female lead, female scripter and I think Spielberg himself in the third act plotting. More than any almost any other Spielberg Exec Produced movie, this feels like and is scripted like a successful 1980s Spielberg pic, a remarkable achievement in itself. Hard to find any faults. All producton levels at triple A level, just below Alita Battle Angel which goes a bit beyond AAA given Weta's participation. Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
CrazydmdFeb 20, 2019
What I did appreciate about this film is that it felt like the series went back to its roots. Complaints about Bumblebee not being a warrior must haven't seen original series cartoon; he was always the marshmallow of the bunch (SpikesWhat I did appreciate about this film is that it felt like the series went back to its roots. Complaints about Bumblebee not being a warrior must haven't seen original series cartoon; he was always the marshmallow of the bunch (Spikes buddy).

Overall the movie isn't great, but decent and far better than the last few films. A family-friendly movie and better than most of Bay's films. Honestly, a 7, seeing 0's a slight bump felt fair.
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
ExMassEffectFanFeb 19, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Better than anything Michael Bay has managed and finally the designs are starting to resemble actual Transformers instead of walking scrap piles. I’d like to see director Travis Knight given a clean slate to reboot the franchise with a proper G1 movie. Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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7
FranzHcriticFeb 8, 2019
'Bumblebee' is probably the best 'Transformer' movie out there. That alone doesn't say much, but the film had probably some of the most heartfelt chemistry between an actor and a CGI character. Steinfeld measures up to the lead role, and all'Bumblebee' is probably the best 'Transformer' movie out there. That alone doesn't say much, but the film had probably some of the most heartfelt chemistry between an actor and a CGI character. Steinfeld measures up to the lead role, and all the supporting roles have a moment or two during this ride. No masterpiece, but that's not what we were looking for here. It's a warm sci-fi action comedy-drama and more worthy of a sequel than any other 'Transformers' film. At least I'm expecting something worth the ticket. Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
MadLadMan420Feb 4, 2019
This movie is clearly better than the previous Transformers movies, honestly. Hailee Steinfeld plays so beautifully and John Cena was built like a brick house. The only thing I like about this film is the G1 Transformers robots that we allThis movie is clearly better than the previous Transformers movies, honestly. Hailee Steinfeld plays so beautifully and John Cena was built like a brick house. The only thing I like about this film is the G1 Transformers robots that we all know and love. This movie is great, and I am definitely getting it on Blu-Ray!! Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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6
LivingTribunalFeb 1, 2019
Good try. It was good to see Bumblebee like this. I can see that this movie really tried to be like E.T. but I don't know it succeeded. Still, it's the best movie in the Transformers franchise.
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
arifhanafiJan 31, 2019
bumblebee really brings transformers universe back to life. It is not just the best transformers movie but it's also one of the best movies of all time, i mean it...thanks to travis knight
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
Jim222001Jan 30, 2019
Definitely should be the start of a reboot. Bumblebee feels like the first movie meets the Iron Giant. It has more of a brain though. Than the first movie. Especially more than Michael Bay’s loud, long and brainless sequels. It feels moreDefinitely should be the start of a reboot. Bumblebee feels like the first movie meets the Iron Giant. It has more of a brain though. Than the first movie. Especially more than Michael Bay’s loud, long and brainless sequels. It feels more like Transformers. Some might just not approve that it’s a cute and heart warming Transformers movie. While Cena’s acting is like he’s doing a segment in WWE. Hailee Steinfeld and Bee own the movie. The Cena scenes are not really the strong points. When it cuts back to Steinfeld. It’s like “yay the good movie I was watching is back on.” Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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9
jneeleyJan 29, 2019
I enjoyed this immensely. It was fantastic direction with a screenplay full of heart. In every sense, this movie delivers in way Bay could not: acting, plot, visual effects. I highly recommend this film. It was one of my favorites of 2018.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
Popcorn55Jan 28, 2019
Reminds us that yellow cars are the best cars, and that 80s music is the best music. The gag at the end is a great ending, lol.

Other than that... pretty silly stuff! As an adult I really shouldn't be wasting my time. A kids movie.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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5
A_HumanPersonJan 27, 2019
Just kind of meh
It is not a bad film, but certainly not good. By far the best transformer film (although that is not saying much) If you see at the cinema then great, if you don't you haven't missed anything.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
cmilitanteJan 22, 2019
Bumblee was a breath of fresh air this franchise needed. Still not sure if this movie was great or just good because I'm comparing it to the last 4. Anyways I enjoyed it and hopefully, it's only up from here.
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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8
Mragusa2Jan 21, 2019
Wait a minute... Did this movie actually make me FEEL something? Could it be? A Transformers movie that actually has HEART in it?! I'm as shocked as most of you probably are. Bumblebee feels like a breath of fresh air to this bloatedWait a minute... Did this movie actually make me FEEL something? Could it be? A Transformers movie that actually has HEART in it?! I'm as shocked as most of you probably are. Bumblebee feels like a breath of fresh air to this bloated franchise. It in many ways feels like a re-telling of The Iron Giant, which isn't a bad thing. Travis Knight does a great job of dialing down the scale of the movie: it is nowhere near as big as Michael Bay's movies. There aren't really any giant epic battles with dozens of giant robots (in fact there are only about 5 transformers in the entire movie). With less things happening on the screen, you can actually tell what's going on.

For me personally as a Transformers fan, the best thing about this movie is the homage it pays to the original G1 cartoon from the 80's. All the Autobots and Decepticons look like their cartoon iterations now, from Optimus Prime to Shockwave. I hope this is something that they continue to do. This is a golden opportunity to reboot this franchise and finally move away from Michael Bay's dumpster fire of movies. I would LOVE to see a movie that takes place entirely on Cybertron!
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