The next three Transformers movies will include a "lower cost" Bumblebee spin-off

Good news Bumblebee fans, the little yellow car that could is getting his own movie. In Hollywood parlance Paramount are describing it as "a lower cost" venture, sandwiched between two more main franchise films.

The schedule includes a Transformers 5 in June 2017, which will be directed by Michael Bay and apparently be his last 'formers outing. The Bumblebee spin off arrives in June 2018 and a final stand alone movie is set for June 2019. Currently, the three films have the working titles of Transformers 5, 6, and 7.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Paramount Pictures boss Brad Grey said, “there are characters in the Transformers universe that can be and should be made into their own movies. We will make the first movie with Michael and go right into a Bumblebee movie, which will be at a lower cost.” Part of the money saving seems to be linked to a cheaper director, post-Mike.

The Hollywood Reporter points out that the franchise has made $3.8 billion since 2007, which probably explains why we won't be short of robots until 2020.

Image: Paramount.