20 Things You Didn't Know About Transformers

Michael Bay's Transformers film series isn't, to put it lightly, particularly liked among certain groups of cinema-goers. Will the series certainly has its admirers (and massive box office returns), this fondness isn't shared with critics, who have ravished each entry with scathing criticism. These attacks were pointed at the films' bloated running times, childish humor, and incomprehensible action.

While much of this criticism is true of the sequels, Bay's first venture into the franchise is quite fun, if a little bogged down by needless humor and muddled story telling. Not counting the prequel Bumblebee, the first Transformers offers the best action and narrative of the series, and stands leagues above its sequels.

As the first in such a popular franchise, the production of the film is filled with interesting stories about how it all came together. From the unique way Bay came on board to the secrets behind some of the incredible effects, there is more than meets the eye to process behind such a massive shoot.

Roll out!

Tyrese Gibson was so eager to be in the film, that he paid the filmmakers to get a central role. All things considered, this seems rather obvious looking at the construction of the narrative, as his character, Robert Epps, feels like a late addition.

Interestingly, a similar situation occurred when making the fifth installment, Transformers: The Last Knight. Having been absent from the fourth entry, Transformers: Age of Extinction, Gibson was keen to return. He pleaded with Bay to bring back his character, and according to Instagram, all seemed to have gone well, as he confirmed his return via a post.

And then the film released and Gibson was nowhere to be seen. It was later confirmed that due to scheduling conflicts, he was sadly not able to return.