Disney and producer Jerry Bruckheimer are delaying the release of the fantasy action feature Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time by almost a year, from June 19, 2009, to Memorial Day weekend 2010.

According to Variety, Disney officially said it wants to allow plenty of time for post-production, considering that the tentpole will require extensive special effects to create its fantasy world and setpieces.

Decision to delay the release by a year caught some by surprise, although the calendar could continue to see major reshufflings because of the ongoing labor strife in Hollywood. Studios may want to allow for extra cushion in case of any production delays.

The film, based on Ubisoft's bestselling videogame, features Jake Gyllenhaal, Gemma Arterton, Ben Kingsley and Alfred Molina.

In its new date, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time opens a week after the release of Shrek Goes Forth.

Disney isn't relinquishing the June 19-21, 2009, weekend completely.

In a twin move, it is pushing up the release of Sandra Bullock-Ryan Reynolds romantic comedy The Proposal from September 2009 to June 19, 2009. Counterprogramming in the heart of summer with female-skewing titles has become a potential goldmine, with Disney looking to continue that trend.