James Cameron is known for his 3D features and documentaries

The sci-fi movie will be set in the 26th Century and filming is expected to start next spring. No casting announcement has been made yet.

"It's going to be a combination of live action and computer graphics," he said.

The film will be based on a series of graphic novels created by Japanese artist Kishiro.

It will feature 1,500 visual effects shots using the 3D cameras Cameron used to shoot Imax film, Ghosts of the Abyss.

Cameron's 1997 film Titanic won 11 Academy Awards, included best director and best film.

His other movies include Aliens, True Lies and The Terminator.

Earlier this year he picked up an honorary doctorate from the University of Southampton - the city was the Titanic's home port.