Do you know who Megan Fox is now? If not, can we also assume you haven't seen the live action films? If so, some (most?) in the hobby would say you are better for it. Though I personally enjoy them even if I wish they were based on G1.
Oh and Ultra Magnus is also my favourite character. I didn't have Optimus Prime as a child either so my Ultra Magnus was always the leader of my Autobots.
Welcome to the boards!