Paramount has decided to push back G.I. Joe: Retaliation from June 29, 2012 to March 29, 2013 in order to convert the film into 3D.

Deadline learned of the plan, noting Paramount expects to add a hefty amount to their international box-office with the 3D conversion plan.

“We’re going to do a conscientious 3D job because we’ve seen how it can better box office internationally,” one of the studio execs just told me. “Jim Cameron did all of Titanic‘s 3D in post – and look how well that movie turned out.”

From a business stand-point, the conversion is understandable, although it’s a bit perplexing that Paramount waited so long to make the decision. Furthermore, the nine month delay seems a bit extreme, especially considering the massive amount of marketing we’ve seen for the film and the clear anticipation there is for G.I. Joe as a major summer blockbuster.

What do you think of this surprising news?