DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo (left) on the set of Shutter Island

Shutter Island, a new thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, has inexplicably been pushed back from a an October 2009 release date to February 2010.

This move is a huge surprise to critics and fans, given that the film was already presumed to sweep up well at the Oscars, and the new release date prevents it from being eligible (the Oscars are being held in March 2010). Also given that the trailer was released in June, eight months is a hell of a time to wait to see the full film – will buzz die out?

It is thought that the decision was based on Paramount’s growing financial pressures this year and DiCaprio’s unavailability to promote the film internationally in the fall.

A Paramount Pictures rep sent out the following statement: “Our 2009 slate was greenlit in a very different economic climate and as a result we must remain flexible and willing to recalibrate and adapt to a changing environment. This is a situation facing every single studio as we all work through the financial pressures associated with the broader downturn. Like every business, we must make difficult choices to maximize our overall success and to best manage Paramount’s business in a way that serves Viacom and its shareholders, while providing the film with every possible chance to succeed both creatively and financially.
Leonardo DiCaprio is among the most talented actors working today and Martin Scorsese is not just one of the world’s most significant filmmakers, but also a personal friend. Following a highly successful 2009, we have every confidence that Shutter Island is a great anchor to lead off our 2010 slate and the shift in date is the best decision for the film, the studio and ultimately Viacom.”

DiCaprio has worked with Scorsese in three films previously, Gangs of New York, The Departed and Aviator.

Shutter Island is in cinemas from February 19th 2010 via Paramount Pictures