HOLLYWOOD—What happens when James Cameron goes to work and then a cyclone hits Papua New Guinea? “Sanctum” is the latest epic produced and directed by the Oscar-winning director, who is known for big stories, rich characters and the ability to make his viewers feel as if they are living the experience his characters are dealing with on screen. The film is a gripping story in two acts.

Cameron introduces the viewers to characters who become ingrained in our minds such as Aussie actor Richard Roxburgh (Frank) and fellow Aussie Rhys Wakefield (Josh). Frank and Josh are pitted against each other early in the film, but they ultimately have to work together in order to survive the ordeal. Both actors are excellent in their roles.

Alice Parkinson (Victoria) is also mesmerizing and exciting to watch as a heroine in “Sanctum,” but the sequences and circumstances overtake the actual star power of the film. Since “Sanctum” has a lot of unknown actors the viewer really gets to enjoy the action without being preoccupied by star power.

There are moments in the film that will have you biting your nails and gripping the theater seat. Cameron is one of the few contemporary directors who is capable of surprising his audience, much like the way Alfred Hitchcock and Samuel Fuller were able to do for decades.

Although the actors are unknown, they do an incredible job in very intense scenes, which were oftentimes claustrophobic in nature. The action really heats up as one of the world’s most exciting and well-known caves fills with water and leaves the characters fighting for their lives. What ensues is a true testament to human nature as some work as a unit and a team, while others care only for themselves.

Viewers may think they know what is in store for them when they go to see the film, but it’s not what anyone expects. There is definitely no chance of boredom. Viewers can expect to be enthralled from the moment they see the first frame until the last remaining seconds of the ending.

James Cameron does it again and packs an emotional punch while offering the viewer unending fright and horror. It’s certainly an entertaining film and “Sanctum” receives Five of Five Stars from this reviewer.

“Sanctum” opened on Friday, February 4, in theaters nationwide.