'Star Trek' release date postponed

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Hollywood's latest installment of the "Star Trek" franchise reportedly is scheduled to hit theaters in May 2009 -- five months later than planned.

The science fiction monie, inspired by the iconic television series, had been slated for release in December 2008.

"Summer is where you see the 'Star Wars' and 'the Transformers,'" the BBC quoted Paramount Pictures spokesman Michael Vollman as saying. "'Star Trek' is in that league."

Directed by "Lost" creator J.J. Abrams, the film stars Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg and Eric Bana.

"'Star Trek' is in fantastic shape. This is all about box-office potential," Vollman said.