Transformers 5 may be on track for a 2017 release

We live in an era where scheduling release dates well in advance is common practice. Whether it be future Marvel films, BATMAN VS SUPERMAN, or even Pixar’s slate of movies, studios need to stake their claim early to ensure they can not only build buzz but also make sure that their rivals don’t scoop up the prime real estate at the local cineplex.

With that in mind, this latest scoop could be a rumor wrapped in a nice bow, wishful thinking from a merchandiser, or an accidental leak of information. Whatever the case, this is likely going to turn out to be true in some capacity. SlashFilm recently learned about the upcoming slate of releases for Australian licensing company Vilsco Textiles surrounding the TRANSFORMERS franchise. The handy dandy chart they use lists both animated projects as well as this summer’s TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION, but what is intriguing is what they have listed for a few years from now. Take a look:

While the logo for TRANSFORMERS 5 is obviously a mock-up done as a placeholder, it definitely raises some questions. With the first three films released 2 years apart from each other, a three year gap between TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION and the fifth film is outside of the norm. But, with Michael Bay likely not returning for a fifth go round, the extra year may serve as time to find a new director to take his place. It also could be strategic planning to avoid CAPTAIN AMERICA 3 and BATMAN VS SUPERMAN which will undoubtedly take up the most coveted slots in 2016’s calendar.

This also supposes that TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION will be a hit. So far, the film looks to be no different from the first three chapters which, while big successes at the box office, have decreased in terms of critical acclaim. I would venture to guess this will end up being legit news but it all hinges on how TRANSFORMERS: AGE OF EXTINCTION does when it hits screens on June 27, 2014.