The best Michael Bay movies are often overlooked because of their explosions and over-the-top action sequences. However, these films are actually entertaining to watch for anyone who likes a good movie!
Michael Bay is an American film director who has been in the industry since 1995. He has made some of the most iconic movies in history.
He’s best known for his action movies, such as Armageddon and Pearl Harbor.
In this article, we will be discussing the top Michael Bay movies that are worth watching!
His films are often filled with explosions, car chases, and lots of people getting injured or killed.
Those who appreciate a good explosion and some fast-paced action will enjoy this list.
Best Michael Bay Movies
All of these films are worth watching in my opinion because they each offer something different for every type of audience member – explosions for those who like violence, romance for those who like love stories, comedy for those with a sense of humor.
The Rock (1996)
The Rock
Alcatraz. Only one man has ever broken out. Now five million lives depend on two men breaking in.
1996 • 2h 17min • ★ 7.131/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, Ed Harris, John Spencer, David Morse
When vengeful General Francis X. Hummel seizes control of Alcatraz Island and threatens to launch missiles loaded with deadly chemical weapons into San Francisco, only a young FBI chemical weapons expert and notorious Federal prisoner have the skills to penetrate the impregnable island fortress and take him down.
The Rock is a classic action film that has stood the test of time. Starring Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, and Ed Harris, this movie delivers on all fronts – from high-stakes action sequences to powerful emotional moments.
The plot revolves around a group of rogue military men who take over the infamous Alcatraz prison and threaten to launch chemical weapons on San Francisco. Cage plays a chemical expert who is forced to team up with Connery, a former inmate, to save the day.
Bay is known for his explosive and adrenaline-fueled films, and “The Rock” is no exception. The action scenes are expertly choreographed and the pacing of the movie is perfect, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The chemistry between Connery and Cage is also a highlight of the film, with their witty banter adding some levity to the intense situations.
- Factory sealed DVD
- Jim Maniaci, Bokeem Woodbine, Claire Forlani (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director)
- French, Spanish (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
Bad Boys (1995)
Bad Boys
Whatcha gonna do?
1995 • 1h 59min • ★ 6.82/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Téa Leoni, Tchéky Karyo, Joe Pantoliano
Marcus Burnett is a henpecked family man. Mike Lowrey is a footloose and fancy free ladies' man. Both Miami policemen, they have 72 hours to reclaim a consignment of drugs stolen from under their station's nose. To complicate matters, in order to get the assistance of the sole witness to a murder, they have to pretend to be each other.
Bad Boys is a quintessential buddy cop movie that packs a punch with its action-packed sequences and charismatic leads.
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s chemistry is electric, and their comedic banter adds a layer of humor to the film’s thrilling plot.
The Miami setting is also a standout, providing a colorful backdrop to the film’s high-speed car chases and explosive shootouts.
However, the film does suffer from some predictable plot twists and stereotypical characterizations.
- Bad Boys For LifeThe original Bad Boys, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin...
- Will Smith, Martin Lawrence (Actors)
- Cantonese, English, French, Indonesian, Japanese (Playback Languages)
- Cantonese, English, French, Indonesian, Japanese (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
BEST MICHAEL BAY MOVIES
Who Is Michael Bay?
Michael Bay is a world-renowned film director and producer who has directed or produced over 20 blockbuster movies.
If you like Michael Bay’s work, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.
He was born in Los Angeles, but grew up in nearby Orange County.
His first job was as an animator for Hanna-Barbera where he helped produce the series Scooby Doo: Mystery Incorporated.
Armageddon (1998)
Armageddon
For love. For honor. For mankind.
1998 • 2h 31min • ★ 6.837/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Ben Affleck, Liv Tyler, Will Patton
When an asteroid threatens to collide with Earth, NASA honcho Dan Truman determines the only way to stop it is to drill into its surface and detonate a nuclear bomb. This leads him to renowned driller Harry Stamper, who agrees to helm the dangerous space mission provided he can bring along his own hotshot crew. Among them is the cocksure A.J. who Harry thinks isn't good enough for his daughter, until the mission proves otherwise.
Armageddon is a quintessential Michael Bay action extravaganza that delivers on its promise of non-stop thrills and explosive visuals.
The film follows a team of oil drillers who are sent on a mission to save humanity from an asteroid that’s hurtling towards Earth.
The film’s special effects are breathtaking, and the action sequences are some of the most intense and thrilling that you’ll ever see.
The chemistry between the cast is also top-notch, with Willis and Affleck delivering standout performances that will leave you rooting for their characters from start to finish.
And of course, who can forget the iconic Aerosmith soundtrack that perfectly captures the film’s emotional and epic tone.
However, Armageddon is not without its flaws. The film’s plot is often contrived, and the science behind the asteroid’s trajectory is questionable at best.
The dialogue can also be cheesy at times, and some of the characters are caricatures rather than fully fleshed-out individuals.
Despite its flaws, Armageddon is a fun and entertaining ride that’s perfect for fans of big-budget action films.
If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you feeling exhilarated, Armageddon is definitely worth a watch.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Will Patton (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director) - Robert Roy Pool (Writer) - Jerry Bruckheimer (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
Pearl Harbor (2001)
Pearl Harbor
It takes a moment to change history. It takes love to change lives.
2001 • 3h 3min • ★ 6.937/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Ben Affleck, Kate Beckinsale, Josh Hartnett, Cuba Gooding Jr., Jon Voight
The lifelong friendship between Rafe McCawley and Danny Walker is put to the ultimate test when the two ace fighter pilots become entangled in a love triangle with beautiful Naval nurse Evelyn Johnson. But the rivalry between the friends-turned-foes is immediately put on hold when they find themselves at the center of Japan's devastating attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.
Pearl Harbor is a film that tries to capture the historical significance of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, but ultimately falls short in its execution.
The film starts off strong, depicting the idyllic life of two best friends, Rafe (Affleck) and Danny (Hartnett), who both fall in love with the same nurse, Evelyn (Beckinsale).
However, once the attack on Pearl Harbor begins, the film loses its focus and becomes a mishmash of war scenes and romantic drama.
The special effects are impressive, but they are used excessively to the point of detracting from the story.
The film also fails to accurately depict the historical events leading up to and following the attack, instead opting for a simplistic and overly dramatic interpretation.
Despite its flaws, Pearl Harbor does have some redeeming qualities. The performances of Affleck, Hartnett, and Beckinsale are strong, and the film does manage to capture some of the emotional turmoil of those affected by the attack.
![Pearl Harbor [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Pud3s-cSL.jpg)
Pain & Gain (2013)
Pain & Gain is a dark and twisted comedy based on a true story about a group of bodybuilders who get caught up in a kidnapping and extortion scheme.
Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson, and Anthony Mackie give standout performances as the three main muscle-headed protagonists, each with their own quirks and flaws.
Director Michael Bay brings his signature style to the film, with flashy visuals and frenetic camera work.
However, some of the more violent and disturbing scenes can be hard to stomach, and the film’s overall tone can be uneven at times.
Despite its flaws, “Pain & Gain” is a compelling and entertaining watch, with plenty of humor and unexpected twists.
![Pain & Gain (BD) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51oX9KnNliL.jpg)
- Factory sealed DVD
- Various (Actor)
- Various (Director)
- English (Publication Language)
Transformers: The Last Knight (2017)
Transformers: The Last Knight
Two worlds collide. One survives.
2017 • 2h 34min • ★ 6.1/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Laura Haddock, Peter Cullen, Anthony Hopkins, Erik Aadahl
Humans and Transformers are at war. Optimus Prime is gone. The key to saving our future lies buried in the secrets of the past, in the hidden history of Transformers on Earth. Saving our world falls upon the shoulders of an unlikely alliance: Cade Yeager; Bumblebee; an English Lord; and an Oxford Professor.
Transformers: The Last Knight is a visual spectacle with stunning action sequences and impressive special effects.
However, the film falls short in terms of storytelling and character development. The plot is convoluted and at times difficult to follow, with a barrage of new characters and subplots introduced without much explanation.
The acting also leaves much to be desired, with many of the performances feeling wooden and lacking in emotion.
Despite these flaws, the film still manages to provide an entertaining and thrilling experience for fans of the franchise, with plenty of robot-on-robot action to satisfy any action junkie.
- Mark Wahlberg, Chris Hemsworth, Josh Duhamel (Actors)
- Portuguese, English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
- English (Publication Language)
- Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009)
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Revenge is coming.
2009 • 2h 30min • ★ 6.2/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Peter Cullen, Hugo Weaving, Tony Todd
Sam Witwicky leaves the Autobots behind for a normal life. But when his mind is filled with cryptic symbols, the Decepticons target him and he is dragged back into the Transformers' war.
Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is the epitome of a mindless blockbuster that is best enjoyed with a big bucket of popcorn and zero expectations.
With an overcomplicated plot, cheesy humor, and a barrage of CGI explosions, this movie is a visual spectacle that is sure to provide some mindless entertainment.
The action sequences are undeniably impressive, with the Transformers battling it out with high-tech weaponry and transforming into various vehicles.
Michael Bay’s direction is over the top, with slow-motion shots and dramatic music heightening the already intense fight scenes.
However, the film suffers from a convoluted plot that tries to cram in too many characters and subplots, leading to a lack of focus and coherence. The humor also falls flat, relying too heavily on juvenile jokes and racial stereotypes.
The performances are serviceable but forgettable, with Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox doing their best with the cliched dialogue they are given.
The real stars of the show are the robots themselves, with their impressive designs and cool transformations stealing the spotlight.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director) - Ehren Kruger (Writer) - Don Murphy (Producer)
- Spanish (Playback Languages)
- Spanish (Subtitle)
The Island (2005)
The Island
Your time will come...
2005 • 2h 16min • ★ 6.674/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Scarlett Johansson, Djimon Hounsou, Sean Bean, Steve Buscemi
In 2019, Lincoln Six-Echo is a resident of a seemingly "Utopian" but contained facility. Like all of the inhabitants of this carefully-controlled environment, Lincoln hopes to be chosen to go to The Island — reportedly the last uncontaminated location on the planet. But Lincoln soon discovers that everything about his existence is a lie.
The Island is a solid sci-fi action flick that delivers on both thrills and thought-provoking ideas.
Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson give strong performances as Lincoln Six Echo and Jordan Two Delta, two inhabitants of a seemingly utopian facility who discover the dark truth behind their existence.
As they escape into the outside world, they are pursued by Sean Bean’s ruthless mercenary, leading to some thrilling chase sequences and intense shootouts.
While the film’s premise may not be entirely original (echoes of The Matrix and other sci-fi classics can be felt), it still manages to ask some interesting questions about identity, freedom, and the ethics of cloning.
The action may be Bay’s bread and butter, but it’s the quieter moments of reflection and character development that elevate The Island above typical blockbuster fare.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Scarlett Johansson, Sean Bean, Steve Buscemi (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director) - Caspian Tredwell-Owen (Writer) - Kenny Bates (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)
Transformers: Age of Extinction
This is not war, it's extinction.
2014 • 2h 45min • ★ 5.9/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Peter Cullen, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer, Nicola Peltz Beckham
As humanity picks up the pieces after the battle of Chicago, a shadowy group reveals itself in an attempt to control the direction of history…while an ancient, powerful new menace sets Earth in its crosshairs. With help from Cade Yeager, Optimus Prime and the Autobots rise to meet their most fearsome challenge yet.
Transformers: Age of Extinction is a visually stunning film that showcases Michael Bay’s signature style of explosive action and dazzling special effects.
The film follows the story of a group of humans and Autobots who team up to protect the world from a new threat posed by a group of Decepticons.
While the action sequences are undeniably impressive, the film suffers from a lack of compelling characters and a coherent plot.
The human characters are forgettable and the performances by the actors are uninspired. The film’s attempts at humor fall flat and are often cringe-worthy.
However, the film’s saving grace is the incredible CGI work that brings the Transformers to life.
The attention to detail in the design of the robots and their transformations is truly impressive. The action sequences are thrilling and the explosions are, as always, a sight to behold.
![Transformers: Age of Extinction [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61Y+SOByMKL.jpg)
- Transformers: age of extinction
- Transformers: age of extinction is the fourth film in Director Michael bay's Global blockbuster...
- Optimus Prime and the autobus must rise to meet their most fearsome Challenge yet
- Mark Wahlberg, Jack Reynor, Stanley Tucci (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director)
Transformers (2007)
Transformers
Their war. Our world.
2007 • 2h 24min • ★ 6.8/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Mark Ryan, Peter Cullen, Hugo Weaving
Young teenager Sam Witwicky becomes involved in the ancient struggle between two extraterrestrial factions of transforming robots – the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons. Sam holds the clue to unimaginable power and the Decepticons will stop at nothing to retrieve it.
Transformers is a thrilling action-packed blockbuster that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The film follows teenager Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) as he stumbles upon a mysterious car that turns out to be an alien robot, leading him on a dangerous journey to save the world from destruction.
The star-studded cast, including Megan Fox and Josh Duhamel, deliver solid performances that keep you invested in the story. However, it’s the awe-inspiring CGI and non-stop action that steals the show.
From the epic battles between the Autobots and Decepticons to the high-speed car chases, the film delivers on its promise of non-stop thrills.
While the plot may not be the most complex, Transformers is a must-see for fans of action and sci-fi. It’s a visual feast that will leave you wanting more.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Josh Duhamel (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director) - Roberto Orci (Writer) - Michael Bay (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
Bad Boys II (2003)
Bad Boys II
If you can't stand the heat, get out of Miami.
2003 • 2h 26min • ★ 6.647/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Martin Lawrence, Will Smith, Jordi Mollà, Gabrielle Union, Peter Stormare
Detectives Marcus Burnett and Mike Lowrey of the Miami Narcotics Task Force are tasked with stopping the flow of the drug Ecstasy into Miami. They track the drugs to the whacked-out Cuban drug lord Johnny Tapia, who is also involved in a bloody war with Russian and Haitian mobsters. If that isn't bad enough, there's tension between the two detectives when Marcus discovers that playboy Mike is secretly romancing Marcus’ sister, Syd.
Bad Boys II is a wild ride from start to finish. The chemistry between Martin Lawrence and Will Smith is undeniable, and their banter and comedic timing are on point throughout the film.
The action sequences are top-notch, with thrilling car chases and explosive shootouts that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Director Michael Bay is known for his over-the-top visual style, and Bad Boys II is no exception.
The film is filled with sweeping helicopter shots, slow-motion explosions, and flashy camera work that adds to the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.
The plot may be a bit convoluted, but it doesn’t really matter when the action is this entertaining.
If you are looking for a fun, action-packed movie to watch with some friends, Bad Boys II is a great choice.
- Bad Boys For LifeThe original Bad Boys, Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin...
- Will Smith, Martin Lawrence (Actors)
- Cantonese, English, French, Indonesian, Japanese (Playback Languages)
- Cantonese, English, French, Indonesian, Japanese (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
The invasion we always feared. An enemy we never expected.
2011 • 2h 34min • ★ 6.2/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Peter Cullen, Leonard Nimoy, John Turturro
The Autobots continue to work for NEST, now no longer in secret. But after discovering a strange artifact during a mission in Chernobyl, it becomes apparent to Optimus Prime that the United States government has been less than forthright with them.
Transformers: Dark of the Moon, the third installment of the Transformers franchise, is a visually stunning film with explosive action sequences and impressive special effects.
Despite its flaws, including a convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters, the film is an entertaining and enjoyable ride for fans of the series.
The performances by the cast, including LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Josh Duhamel, are solid, and the addition of new Transformers, like the villainous Shockwave, add to the excitement.
Where the film truly shines, however, is in its action sequences. The battles between the Autobots and Decepticons are intense and thrilling, with Bay’s signature style of explosive and chaotic action on full display.
The film’s climax, set in Chicago, is particularly impressive, showcasing the destruction of the city on an epic scale.
6 Underground (2019)
6 Underground
They say no one can save the world. Meet no one.
2019 • 2h 8min • ★ 6.345/10 • United States of America
Directed by: Michael Bay
Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Mélanie Laurent, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Ben Hardy, Adria Arjona
After faking his death, a tech billionaire recruits a team of international operatives for a bold and bloody mission to take down a brutal dictator.
6 Underground is a high-octane action film that will leave you breathless. Helmed by Bay, the movie boasts a stunning visual palette and adrenaline-fueled set pieces that keep you on the edge of your seat.
Ryan Reynolds delivers a charismatic performance as the leader of a band of vigilante operatives who fake their own deaths in order to go off the grid and take down notorious criminals.
The supporting cast, including Mélanie Laurent, Corey Hawkins, and Dave Franco, are equally impressive in their roles.
While the plot may be a bit convoluted at times, the film makes up for it with its sheer spectacle and thrilling action sequences.
From high-speed car chases to intense shootouts, 6 Underground is a non-stop thrill ride that doesn’t let up until the very end.
The film may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for a fun and exciting action flick, 6 Underground is definitely worth checking out.
13 Hours: The Secret Soldier of Benghazi (2016)
No poster available
“13 Hours” is a tense and gripping action thriller based on the true story of six CIA contractors who fought to defend the US consulate in Benghazi, Libya against a terrorist attack in 2012.
Director Michael Bay delivers his trademark explosive action sequences and stunning visuals, but also manages to infuse the film with a sense of realism and emotional weight.
The ensemble cast, led by John Krasinski, give strong performances and imbue their characters with depth and humanity.
The film effectively portrays the chaos and confusion of the situation in Benghazi, as well as the bravery and sacrifice of those involved.
While some may criticize the film’s political leanings or inaccuracies in its portrayal of events, “13 Hours” ultimately succeeds as a thrilling and emotional tribute to the men who risked their lives to protect their fellow Americans.
- James Badge Dale, Max Martini, John Krasinski (Actors)
- Michael Bay (Director)
- Spanish, Portuguese, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
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