Time's A-Tickin' for Zack Snyder and Watchmen

Will the "unfilmable" Watchmen legacy continue? Awhile back, the Underwire reported that Keanu Reeves was circling the role of Dr. Manhattan in Zack Snyder's post-300 project. But that was, let's see, February? Months later, rumors abound, still no announcement. Yesterday, Ain't It Cool News added more casting rumors (Jude Law as Ozymandias and Little Children "Prom King" Patrick Wilson as Dan) and said offers were floating around. According to a source close to the project, offers are indeed out to several actors and if all goes well, they'll announce casting by June 1. There is however, one ugly snag: Warner Bros is balking at the budget increase this current crop of A-ish listers (which may include Law but, this source says, does not include Reeves) will create. After all, Snyder's 300, cost about $60 million but Gerard Butler only ate up about six-figures and all the lean protein from craft services. Not so with Law et al. As it is, the film, which was supposed to start shooting next month, is now tentatively pushed back to September. And that's if these offers are not only accepted—but studio approved. Only time (sorry) will tell.