I'm actually quite a big fan of the original animated film, though obviously my tastes have matured and the premise doesn't entice me the way it once did. Still, the 2007 movie felt like it was made by someone who HATES this stuff, and the sequels were even worse in that regard.
... this franchise is "beloved"?
Fromtheyardtothearthouse.substack.com
In terms of the original 80s cartoons and toys.
The Bayformers films are another matter.
I'm actually quite a big fan of the original animated film, though obviously my tastes have matured and the premise doesn't entice me the way it once did. Still, the 2007 movie felt like it was made by someone who HATES this stuff, and the sequels were even worse in that regard.
Fromtheyardtothearthouse.substack.com