"Watchmen" is a 2009 superhero film based on the acclaimed 1986-87 comic book series of the same name by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. The film takes place in an alternate reality where superheroes, once celebrated as heroes, are now outlawed. A retired superhero known as the Comedian is murdered, leading another retired superhero, Rorschach, to investigate and unravel a larger conspiracy. As the story unfolds, the characters confront issues of morality, power, and the consequences of playing god.

The film was directed by Zack Snyder and features an ensemble cast, including Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Patrick Wilson. The film was praised for its faithfulness to the source material and its impressive visuals, but criticized for its dense storytelling and lengthy runtime. The film also featured a diverse soundtrack, including songs from artists such as Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, and My Chemical Romance.

"Watchmen" was a commercial success, grossing over $185 million worldwide. It also sparked debate among fans and critics about the limits of adaptation and the nature of superhero stories. In the years since its release, the film has gained a cult following and is often regarded as one of the better comic book adaptations. A television series, also titled "Watchmen," premiered on HBO in 2019, serving as a sequel to the events of the original comic book series.

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