'Transformers' to DVD, HD DVD on Oct. 16

DVD ex machina: Paramount Home Entertainment has just announced "Transformers" for Oct. 16.

The two-disc special edition of the summer blockbuster comes in standard DVD and HD DVD. No Blu-ray, you know that story.

The HD DVDs have a H.U.D. (Heads up display) that lets viewers access running text commentary while watching the film as well as relevant behind-the-scenes footage. Additionally, viewers can explore the main robots' constructions in high definition with the Transformers Tech Inspector. Paramount plans to update content for those with web-connected HD DVD players.

Extras on the special edition DVD and the HD DVD include commentary by Michael Bay and two multipart documentaries exploring the human elements of the film as well as the robot stars. "Our World" and "Their War" include segments with exec producer Steven Spielberg discussing his love for the franchise and the early concepts for the movie, the training, consultants and real-world weapons provided by the military and the evolution of the robots from Hasbro’s iconic toy line to big-screen stars.

The three "Transformers" DVDs -- a one-disc standard DVD, a two-disc special edition and the HD DVD -- all come in widescreen with the 16x9 enhancement. Audio appears to be Dolby Digital 5.1, no DTS.

Comments

[Todd]

I have to admit, the idea of a running text commentary appeals to me. I am not such a big fan of online chats with your friends and some of the other high def extras they are planning, but this seems like it might be useful.

I work for a post production company (deluxe digital studios if you are familiar) and i haven't checked to see if this is on our schedule yet. Wouldn't mind working on this particular title ;-)

Well at any rate blogged this and gave a link back to your site. My first visit here actually. Later

[Glenn]

Now that DVD extras are so formulaic, it'll be quite interesting to see what disc producers come up with for web-connected players -- how they experiment with concepts for interactive extras. A wide open area, just like in the old days of DVD and laserdisc extras.

Thanks for the sharp comment, Todd, looking forward to your next one.

Glenn