Shiver me timbers, movie moguls!

Studio executives gathered at the Digital Hollywood conference here this week debated new business models made possible by the Internet, home networks and a burgeoning array of digital devices. They also warned that copyright concerns could delay for years new products and services that fully take advantage of the new technologies.

But Hollywood would need strict anti-copying guarantees first. Specifically, locks would need to be pushed deep into the guts of television set-top boxes, PCs and home networks–broaching a hot-button issue that’s riled device makers that largely oppose such measures. More than 40 technology companies and trade associations warned bill sponsors on Tuesday that the legislation would engender an “unmanageable flood of litigation that would tie up innovators and chill investment.”

I dunno… Didn’t we get rid of the pirates when we attacked Tortuga? Note to Movie Industry Ezekatives: If you build a better lock, they will build a better key. Word.