Transformers is a 2007 film based on the popular Transformers franchise, which features various alien cars and machinery that “transform” into giant robots. These robots are from the planet Cybertron (total 80s name, I know) and make up two factions: the Autobots and the Decepticons. Seeing as “decepticon” is an obvious take off of the word “deception,” I’m sure you’ve figured out that they’re the bad guys. The Autobots are led by the heroic Optimus Prime, while the dastardly Megatron leads the Decepticons.

The film is being produced by Steven Spielberg, among others, and directed by action guru Michael Bay. While I’m not the biggest fan of Michael Bay’s somewhat brainless action blockbusters, I think that he may just be the perfect fit for Transformers. The screenplay, based on the original story from Hasbro and Tom DeSanto, was penned by Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtz, who both worked on the sci-fi film The Island, and John Rogers, who helped write the 2003 film The Core.

Young actor Shia LaBeouf, from the upcoming Disturbia, plays the lead role in the film, which also stars Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, and Jon Voight. Peter Cullen, who has done the voice of Optimus Prime in several incarnations of Transformers, will provide the voice in the film, as well. Frank Welker, who has likewise provided the voice of Megatron time and time again, will be reprising his role in the movie as well.

This will be the first Transfomers American feature film since 1986, when the animated Transformers: The Movie was released. This will also be the first live action Transformers movie ever released. Unlike the 1986 movie, however, this will be a complete reboot of the franchise.

Transformers will hit theaters on July 4th, 2007. What’s more American than giant alien robots fighting each other?