James Cameron Claims He Penned Point Break But Got No Credit
James Cameron says he wrote the story for Kathryn Bigelow and Keanu Reeves’ 1991 action hit Point Break, but never received official credit. Discover the behind-the-scenes drama, the ex-couple’s creative partnership, and how their careers and personal lives collided.
Few people realize that the creative force behind Avatar: Fire and Ash, James Cameron, was once married to Kathryn Bigelow, the director of A House of Dynamite. While their relationship is no secret, what’s less known is Cameron’s claim that he wrote the entire story for the 1991 action- thriller Point Break, starring Keanu Reeves. In a recent interview, Cameron opened up about his involvement in the film ’s creation and his frustration over not being officially recognized for his work.
Uncredited Work on a Cult Classic
Point Break is officially credited to screenwriter W. Peter Iliff, but Cameron insists the story was his. He didn’t mince words about the situation, stating:
I wrote Point Break. I flat out got stiffed by the Writers Guild on that. It was bullsh-t.
This isn’t the only time Cameron and Bigelow collaborated. Their creative partnership extended beyond Point Break, with Cameron also writing the script for Bigelow’s 1995 sci-fi film Strange Days. Unlike with Point Break, Bigelow gave Cameron proper credit for his writing on Strange Days.
Creative Collaboration and Personal Turmoil
Their professional and personal lives were deeply intertwined. Cameron and Bigelow married in 1989, but their union was short-lived, ending in divorce in 1991—the same year Point Break hit theaters. That summer, both directors released major films: Bigelow’s Point Break and Cameron’s Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Both movies achieved significant box office success and critical acclaim, but the demands of their careers reportedly took a toll on their marriage.
Despite the end of their relationship, both directors continued to thrive in Hollywood. Bigelow went on to direct acclaimed films like The Hurt Locker, while Cameron’s blockbuster hits include the Avatar franchise and Titanic.
Point Break’s Legacy and Industry Impact
Point Break, directed by Bigelow and starring Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, and Lori Petty, premiered on July 12, 1991. The film became a cult favorite, earning $83 million worldwide and maintaining a strong reputation with a 7.3/10 IMDb rating and a 68% Rotten Tomatoes score. It was produced by 20th Century Studios and is currently available to stream on Peacock.
In contrast, Strange Days, released in 1995, didn’t achieve the same commercial success but has since gained recognition as an underrated sci-fi gem. This time, Cameron’s contribution as a writer was officially acknowledged by Bigelow.
Work Over Love: The End of a Hollywood Power Couple
The dissolution of Cameron and Bigelow’s marriage coincided with the release of their respective films. Reports suggest that both directors prioritized their careers over their relationship, leading to their split. Their story is a testament to the challenges of balancing personal and professional ambitions in the high-pressure world of filmmaking.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day is currently available to stream on Netflix in the United States.