It’s pretty common knowledge now that two of the main players in the TRANSFORMERS film franchise will not be returning for the (let’s face it) inevitable fourth – so where exactly does that leave the series without diretor Michael Bay and star Shia LaBeouf? There’s been lots of talk of a reboot, but we at Starburst think it’s absurd to think audiences value either of them over the movie’s metal stars. Ask any of the target demographic whether they’ll pay to see another Autobot adventure if Michael Bay wasn’t behind the camera and you’re most likely going to get a “Michael who?” in return.

Turns out we didn’t have to wait too long to get clarification on where the TRANSFORMERS films are heading. Here’s producer Don Murphy to clear some things up…

“What happens next? Certainly not a reboot.”

Told ya!

“We haven’t lost the Transformers. They didn’t grow up or become expensive like Toby Maguire. I don’t know what happens next. I’m pretty sure there will be a second trilogy. I am pretty sure it will kick ass. And I am pretty sure some of you will hate it.”

Don’t get me wrong, I actually think Shia LaBeouf was an important part of the trilogy – he was our entry point into the robot’s (baffling) mythology, and was likeable and relatable to boot. Where Murphy and fellow producer Spielberg need to step carefully, is finding a character (or characters) of equal worth. Or a better screenwriter. A 2hr plus movie featuring only the warring Transformers as they were previously written would frankly be excruciating.

As would a TRANSFORMERS movie starring Jason Statham! Yep, The Transporter vs. The Transformers. Not only is this an awful, awful idea – it’s also a frankly ludicrous rumour, generated by hacks who simply noticed the thesp-without-a-vest is currently shacked up with DARK OF THE MOON’s achingly dull eye-candy Rosie Huntington-Whitely (also known as Megan Fox-lite).

Hopefully Don Murphy can step in and debunk that rumour too. Quickly.

Anybody out there willing to admit they’re as invested in this film franchise as much as I am? Would you be happy with Jason Statham sharing the screen with Optimus Prime? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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