October 16 brings the long-awaited release of Transformers, exclusively on DVD and HD DVD. Many reviews abound on the web about the great disc this is, from its interactivity features to simpler things like (some) bonus material shot on HD instead of standard definition. Paramount’s decision to forgo Dolby True HD for the soundtrack was initially met with some criticism, however the reviews for the audio on this disc have been very positive. In other words, this is certainly one of those benchmark discs that goes a long way towards showing off your home theater.

Also out this week are The Reaping and Return to House on Haunted Hill, two horror movies for Halloween, and Angelina Jolie in A Mighty Heart.

One of the nice things about this week’s releases is that they’re all brand-new movies from 2007 instead of older catalog titles that the studios felt like reviving in HD. In the end, it’s great to have those oldies (and we’ll have plenty next week), but it’s also great to have the latest movies to watch at home too.

(All movie links go to Amazon.com ordering pages)

Transformers (2007) Shia LeBouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, John Turturro, John Voight Directed by Michael Bay Rated PG-13

A Mighty Heart (2007) Angelina Jolie, Dan Futterman Directed by Michael Winterbottom Rated R

The Reaping (2007) Hilary Swank, David Morissey Directed by Stephen Hopkins Rated R

Return to House on Haunted Hill (2007) Amanda Righetti, Erik Palladino, Cerina Vincent, Tom Riley Directed by Victor Garcia Rated R (read more about this disc’s unique navigational cinema features)