Warner Bros has denied rumours that it delayed the Nov 5 release of the historical epic "Alexander" because it was "too gay", saying the three week postponement would help the film's chances at the Oscars.

The producers said they were thrilled with the film, which reportedly has Alexander and the Persian eunuch Bagaos making love and denied they had reined in the film to "tone down" the steamy scenes.

Warner Bros have announced Nov 24 as the new date.

Production president Jeff Robinov said: "Any speculation that the Studio is trying to cut scenes from Alexander based on their depiction of the sexual relationships of the lead character is false and does not accurately represent the content of the film, which portrays Alexander the Great as heroic, and a man of his time and culture" reports the Scoop.

"Warner Bros Pictures is proud of 'Alexander' and thinks it is an exceptional piece of filmmaking. We've moved the release date, to position it better for Academy consideration. We also want to allow ourselves more time to complete some of its ambitious visual effects."