Dive into this 3-D thriller

“Sanctum,” from executive producer James Cameron, epitomizes the genre of “action thriller.”

Trapped by a storm in an unexplored cave, a group of explorers must search for an alternate escape route before the rainwater floods the entire cave.

Thanks to excellent acting, the film is absorbing; you feel like you are really there, and you have to remind yourself that you’re actually in a theater. And you’re safe.

The pain and terror seem real. When someone dies, it feels like he or she really just died. In fact, at points it’s not even fun to watch, just uncomfortable and disturbing.

While the movie seems fresh, many of the themes throughout are pretty cliché, like the classic “stern father versus rebellious son.” The dialogue falls into some of the same ruts and as a result, the film is somewhat predictable. That being said, it rarely gives you a moment to even breathe, much less consider what will come next.

“Sanctum” may have its faults, but if you’re up for it, I would suggest taking the plunge.