James Cameron Produced ‘Sanctum’ Picked Up by Universal

James Cameron’s equal fascination with the deep, blue sea and the most up-to-date filmmaking technology available is about to put a few more coins in his purse.   Universal and Relativity have partnered to release ‘Sanctum,’ an underwater drama that is to be produced by Cameron.   This all comes to us according to Variety.

A screening of the 3D technology that is to be used in the film was held for potential buyers last week at Cameron’s offices in Santa Monica.   Relativity was not the highest bidder, but they decided to team with Universal, who had also made a bid to distribute the film, to work jointly in bringing the film to cinemas.   The companies are putting up in the neighborhood of $11.5 million to distribute the film in North America, the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.

The film looks to lens later this year.   Written by Andrew Wight and John Garvin, it was inspired by a true story involving Wight.   On a diving expedition miles within a series of underwater caverns, Wight and his crew were forced to find a way out after the entrance to the caverns collapsed.

Alister Grierson is set to direct the $30-million film.   A 2010 release date is being aimed for.