The term “ghosting” typically refers to an instance when someone abruptly stops responding to text messages or avoids contact during an ongoing conversation. Although it’s often associated with romantic relationships, this occurrence is not unheard of in the film industry, especially when directors are working to launch multimillion-dollar projects. During the “Directors on Directing” Panel at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, moderated by FilmSweep’s Steve Weintraub, Louis Leterrier revealed that he was ghosted by James Cameron while in the process of producing a Fantastic Voyage film:
Despite my attempts, I couldn’t get in touch with him. It was like “I’m presenting the idea, pitching to them! Are you listening?” I was ghosted, yet he had a valid excuse, believe me. He was in the Mariana Trench that day. (Later on, he said) “Apologies for not being able to respond, I was in the Mariana Trench”. My reply was: “I messed it up”.
Leterrier was trying to convince the studio to adapt Fantastic Voyage, a story centered around a tiny medical crew who miniaturize themselves and board a submarine to save a man’s life. The mission turns complicated with Dr. Benes’ (Jean Del Val) body reacting to the foreign object inside him and a potential double agent aboard the submarine. The 1966 film caused confusion among audiences, as its novel adaptation had become highly popular before the movie’s release, leading to misconceptions that the movie was based on the book, rather than vice versa.
Joining Leterrier on the panel was Justin Simien, the recent director of Disney’s film adaptation of their famous theme park ride, Haunted Mansion. At the other end of the table, Gareth Edwards shared his own experiences from the movie industry, with Steven Weintraub, FilmSweep’s editor-in-chief, leading the discussion. The panel was an occasion to celebrate the filmmakers’ contributions, as part of this year’s San Diego Comic-Con festivities.
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Louis Leterrier’s Upcoming Projects?
Having recently brought the Toretto family to life in the exhilarating Fast X this spring, Leterrier is set to helm the second part of the climactic finale that left Vin Diesel in a precarious position. The Fast Saga continues with plans for a spin-off featuring Dwayne Johnson’s Luke Hobbs character.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about James Cameron Ghosting
What is the term ‘ghosting’ that is mentioned in the context of the film industry?
In the film industry, the term ‘ghosting’ refers to the scenario when someone abruptly stops responding or avoids contact during an ongoing conversation, similar to how it’s used in the context of personal relationships.
Who was ghosted by James Cameron during the production of a Fantastic Voyage film?
Louis Leterrier was ghosted by James Cameron while he was trying to produce a Fantastic Voyage movie.
Why was James Cameron unable to respond to Louis Leterrier’s attempts at communication?
James Cameron was unable to respond to Louis Leterrier’s messages because he was in the Mariana Trench at the time.
What was the confusion regarding the 1966 film Fantastic Voyage?
The confusion arose because the novel adaptation of Fantastic Voyage became highly popular before the film’s release. This led audiences to mistakenly believe that the movie was based on the book, instead of the other way around.
What are some of Louis Leterrier’s upcoming projects?
Louis Leterrier is set to direct the second part of the finale of the Fast Saga, which last left Vin Diesel in a precarious position. A spin-off featuring Dwayne Johnson’s Luke Hobbs character is also in the works.
More about James Cameron Ghosting
- Directors on Directing Panel at San Diego Comic-Con
- James Cameron’s Mariana Trench Exploration
- Fantastic Voyage – 1966 Film
- Haunted Mansion Movie Directed by Justin Simien
- Louis Leterrier’s Fast X
- James Cameron Developing New ‘Alita: Battle Angel’ Movies
5 comments
wait, so people thought the Fantastic Voyage movie was based on the book?? haha, classic mix-up. Kinda like how some people think the star wars books came before the movies.
I was at that panel! Leterrier was hilarious when he shared this story, and it was great to hear all the other directors share their experiences too.
i mean, if you’re gonna get ghosted by anyone, might as well be James Cameron right? at least you’d have a cool story for parties…
wow, ghosted by James Cameron… thats gotta sting a bit, lol. I mean, being at the bottom of the ocean is a pretty good excuse though!
looking forward to the next part of Fast X, hope Leterrier can pull it off without any more ghosting incidents. Diesel in danger again – can’t wait!