Transformers 1 - 4: The 4K Ultra Edition

When I reviewed "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" back in 2009, I referred to it as "a cinematic assault." Eight years later, my ears are still ringing. All sound and fury signifying nothing, the film was the follow-up sequel to Michael Bay's hit adaptation of toys for children, a franchise which has now spawned five (5!) movies total. These first four films are now available on 4K Ultra HD, meaning you can bring the ugly visual pummeling and cacophonous sound design directly into your living room. It's the perfect gift to give someone you hate.

Or, perhaps you aren't like me, and the "Transformers" franchise makes you giddy with joy. In that case, feel free to spend all your money on these overpriced pieces of garbage. That's what people seem to do with each subsequent theatrical release, and that's why they keep making these damn things.

The visuals on these 4K releases (which include 2007's "Transformers, 2009's "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen," 2011's "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" and 2014's "Transformers: Age of Extinction") are admittedly sharp and crisp, while the sound palette will roar out of your speakers with aggressive gusto. To enjoy, you just need to be a fan of nonsensical editing patterns and audio work that feels like somebody is banging together pots and pans directly next to your eardrums. These movies are the downfall of the action genre, with filmmaking so messy and chaotic that I feel like people are lying if they claim they can adequately understand what's happening and where people are during a major sequence. In terms of action-oriented filmmaking alone, comparing this to something like 2015's "Mad Max: Fury Road" is like comparing dog shit to a pile of gold.

Bonus features on the 4K and Blu-ray combo discs include commentary from Michael Bay (only on the first two films), a wide array of featurettes, music videos and more. For fans of the franchise, this is a worthy purchase indeed. For those like me, you'd be better off spending your money on a root canal. It'd probably be more enjoyable too.

"Transformers" 1-4
4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and Digital Combo Pack
$31.99 each
http://www.paramount.com/movies/home-media