The popular toy robots in disguise make their big-screen debut in "Transformers,” directed by the action-geared Michael Bay ("The Rock,” "Armageddon”). Bay's film isn't solely for the fans, who probably would roll out to theaters regardless. "Transformers” was designed with a mainstream audience in mind.

In "Transformers,” Sam Witwicky ( Shia LaBeouf ) is a lovable doof who is saving up for a new car. At...