1. Transformers
So often Transformers is brought up in an argument in the distance between critical opinion and the popular consensus, stating that even though Michael Bays thundering exercise in lack of subtlety has received some of the worst bashings in recent years, it has made billions at the box office and so many trumpet the series as incredibly entertaining. Moving aside from the fact that critics are not just stuffy types who hate anything that moves faster than a snails pace, this point is bogus for the simple fact that, stripping away the special effects, none of the Transformers films have any artistic merit. The action is loud and hard to follow with a ludicrous plot that betrays the serious and fetishist way it deals with the military. For me, the proposed fourth instalment is a terrible idea; I dread yet another film chock full of indistinguishable robots. I know theres plenty of people who enjoy the films, but wouldn't they be happier with the proper ending the third offered Megatron killed, Earth saved, end of Sams journey than seeing a poor attempt to add more life to the franchise? Its hard to think anyone greets Transformers 4 with open arms; even those who can enjoy the films are happy to admit the problems with character and plot. However, being consistently poor isnt enough to top this list; Transformers hasnt just produced three critic-proof behemoths, but it also epitomises everything wrong with modern blockbuster cinema. The poisonous effect on Hollywood these films have had can be summed up in one sickening phrase. Its just a mindless movie, switch your brain off for a couple of hours. Its not meant to be deep. is an argument so common in defence of films of this type big, brash and unhealthy that it is now used as a valid argument, despite being completely baseless. Take any big movies of yesteryear; Jaws, Star Wars, Back to the Future etc. These films are, at the end of the day, fun movies. They may not be deep, but have endured to become classics because they have, above all else, heart. You dont switch off your brain to enjoy them, but engage it to have a fun experience. The continuation of Transformers maintains this view in the public mind that all Hollywood do is churn out these massive, brain-dead movies. Forget that this summer weve had two of the best superhero films of all time, the general consensus is that Hollywood is vapid and out of ideas. Transformers has already had such a contemptible effect on cinema that another cant do much more damage, but please, for entertainments sake, stop the franchise now. Thats what we think now its your turn. Think we got it right, or have we missed out some franchises that have lasted much longer than they should have? Have your say in the comments below.