Popular action film franchise "Transformers" is set to release its fifth film and new reports indicate we could see a mix of original and new cast members in the upcoming film. Earlier news indicated that we could see the return of Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox while Mark Wahlberg would be getting the boot.
However, per Wahlberg (via MTV), the 43-year-old actor has confirmed his return to the franchise. "Yeah, I committed to doing a couple more," said "The Gambler" celebrity in December, when asked about his involvement with the "Age of Extinction" sequel.
With a 2016 release date looming, the actor teased fans that he and the team wouldbe hitting the set soon. "I can't speak for Mr. Bay, but something tells me we'll be on the set soon," commented the action star.
As it stands, there is no indication if the second set of actors who accompanied Mark would be returning, namely Nicola Peltz or Jack Reynor. One actress associated with the film is Shia LaBeouf's first leading lady, Megan Fox.
Per Enstarz, the Fox's "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" director Jonathan Liebesman may be taking over for Michael Bay and the new director may be bringing Fox with him.
Bay has already spoken about leaving the film. After directing "Age of Extinction," Michael spoke to MTV (via IndieWire) and discussed the future of the franchise.
"There's a lot that's unexplored, but that's for the next director to figure out," said Bay and added the effort it takes to make the fast-paced movies. "They're hard movies to do and it takes every day for two years. They're fun, but they're hard," he said.
The site also noted that from a professional standpoint, Bay is looking to broaden his filming credits and do a project that will take him on a new direction.
"There's kind of a new chapter, a new direction in movies I want to make," said Bay. "I have a lot of stories to tell. And it's about flexing new muscles." Sources are claiming that Bay wants to finally settle down and work on a passion project -- a documentary about elephant poaching -- an undertaking he's mentioned in the past.
As it stands the fifth "Transformers" has yet to release an official plot summary but online sources claim the focus of the upcoming film is beast wars. Rumors are circulating that the "Age of Extinction" sequel will be about Maximals warring against the Predacons and it's also possible we'll see the film take place outside of Earth, maybe Cybertron.
"Transformers 5" is due out in 2016. No trailer or promo photos have been released.
