By Variety on 02/03/2011
The astounding visuals almost overcome the waterlogged emotional drama in "Sanctum," a subterranean survival epic that expertly tightens the screws even as one wishes it would keep a tighter mouth-clamp on its increasingly whiny characters. Sure to remind some viewers of "The Descent," though it mostly bears the thrill-seeking, 3D-loving fingerprints of exec producer James Cameron, this often squirmingly visceral thriller offers aquaphobes and claustrophobes one more reason, as if they needed it, to steer clear of Australia's treacherous Esa'ala Caves. Superb imagery, stereoscopic enhancements and IMAX showings should give this otherwise midrange-trawling B-movie a commercial shot in the arm.