While the box office might not be lighting up for Rodrigo Cortés’ latest film Buried (read my review here), the director is deservedly gathering big talent for his next feature film. We reported in May that Sigourney Weaver would join Cortés’ Red Lights, and now Variety is reporting that Robert De Niro will also join the cast. Unlike Buried, this film is from an original screenplay by Cortés (he often writes his own material) and is a psychological thriller involving a psychic. Hit the jump for find out more about the film, including quotes from the production team and the roles of Weaver and De Niro.

The story of Red Lights follows:

“a psychologist, played by Weaver, and her assistant whose study of paranormal activity leads them to investigate a world-renowned psychic (De Niro).”

Weaver and her uncast partner’s goal are to debunk the psychic, according to an early description. While production is set to begin in February, I expect the cast to start to fill out because of the nine week planned shoot (seven in Spain, two in Canada).

Adrian Guerra will produce Red Lights through his Versus Entertainment shingle, along with Parlay Films, CSe Entertainment (in association with Blue Storm Productions), and Cortés. “Red Lights follows the steps of Buried in allowing us to make a highly commercial, bold and compelling film with great production values and Hollywood stars but keeping the creative control from Spain," Guerra said. Parlay head Lisa Wilson, who already acquired international rights outside Spain and South Korea, praised the director.

“In Buried, what he was able to do with a minor budget, one actor, and a box was extraordinary,” said Wilson. Parlay will begin selling the film in November at the American Film Market. Buried is already in limited release through Lionsgate, but has not fared particularly well. I think it is one of the must-see films of 2010, so check out Ryan Reynolds in a coffin for over 90 minutes.

“Cortes is "a major, major talent. In 'Buried,' what he was able to do with a minor budget, one actor and a box was extraordinary," said Wilson.