Fox pushes for 'Watchmen' delay

20th Century Fox is seeking an injunction to block the release of Warner Bros's superhero film Watchmen.

A recent federal ruling concluded that Fox still owns copyright interest in the movie, based on Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons's comic book, and has the right to distribute the first feature film based on the work.

Judge Gary Allen Feess urged Fox and Warner Bros to negotiate a settlement to avoid taking the dispute to trial, which would likely delay the planned March 6, 2009 release. However, Warner Bros has countered Fox's request for an injunction by stating that it is willing to go to trial.

The studio said: "We respectfully but vigorously disagree with the court's ruling and are exploring all of our appellate options. We continue to believe that Fox's claims have no merit and that we will ultimately prevail, whether at trial or in the Court of Appeals."

Judge Feess plans to hold a trial on January 20 to determine rights issues, potential damages and whether to delay the release of the movie.