Transformers : The Ultimate Translators

I just saw Transformers. It was quite entertaining, yet expectedly juvenile. I'd recommend it for those who want a summer-roller-coaster-ride type of flick. Overall, I give it 4/5 passports: it's probably worth the trip for sheer entertainment value.


But this post isn't just a review.

If you think about it, the Transformers are kind of like the ultimate Translators - changing from one physical form into another. They even inspire change among moviegoers.

For example, this evening we saw some kids dressed up in cardboard costumes. Great fun, and I'm glad they had the creativity and energy to drop their video games and actually MAKE something. I'm not complaining. I just think their "translation" of Optimus Prime was a bit off - one older looking kid in particular.

Here's how Optimus Prime appears in the movie:


And here's about how Optimus Prime appeared this evening:



I think his "translation" was a bit off. I just don't get it. What is he trying to say?

Can you help him translate?

Coming Soon: Indiana Jones 4!

That's right. The man in the hat is back.

In case you haven't heard, Indiana Jones will be swinging his way back to the silver screen some time in 2008. The working title is Indiana Jones and the City of the Gods. Cate Blanchett and Shia LaBoeuff have signed on along with Harrison Ford. A few paparazzi shots of production:



To what does the City of the Gods refer, you may ask?

Translation: With my limited experience, I can only speculate that the City of the Gods refers to the pre-Columbian city of Teotihuacan in Mexico.

At its cultural zenith during the 1st half of the 1st millennium C.E., Teotihuacan was also referred to as the "birthplace of the gods" and the "place of those who have the road to the gods".

With its Avenue of the Dead and Pyramid of the Sun, I cannot imagine a more perfect location for an Indiana Jones adventure.

Who are these Gods?

Interstellar travelers that harbored an unimaginably powerful secret that threatens to destroy all mankind? A likely plot line.

The Avenue of the Dead and the Pyramid of the Sun (background, left).

In all, I guess we're going to have to wait to learn about Indiana's next adventure.

Translation: It's gonna be SWEET!