Gerard Butler has joined the cast of director Curtis Hanson's real-life surf drama Mavericks.

The story will follow Jay Moriarity, a Santa Cruz surfer who set out to conquer the dangerous Northern California breaks known as the Mavericks. During the winter, the wave swells can get up to the size of a five-story building. Gerard Butler will portray surf instructor Rick "Frosty" Hesson, the man who trained Jay Moriarity for over a year to beat the Mavericks. The two formed a strong bond in the process.

Though Jay Moriarity survived the massive swells, he later died at the age of twenty-two during a diving accident. His youthful demise in the face of danger helped coin the phrase "Live like Jay." And the surfer is still an inspiration to young sports enthusiasts today.

Kario Salem and Brandon Hooper wrote the screenplay. Curtis Hanson is seeking a young actor to portray Jay Moriarity. Sean Penn was at one time attached to the project, presumably set to play the role of Rick "Frosty" Hesson. There is no mention as to why he dropped out.