Will Ang Lee rank along Martin Scorsese and James Cameron as a modern master of 3D filmmaking.

Twentieth Century Fox is banking on the "Brokeback Mountain" director with its upcoming adaptation of Yann Martel’s "Life of PI." The studio has teased audiences with the 3D goodies that await them in the film, previewing a scene featuring a school of flying fish with "Prometheus." But Fox gave moviegoers their first extended look at Lee's vision this week in a new preview and it's a visual stunner.

Whales breach the water, ships sink, a Bengal tiger roars in a veritable feast for the eyes that will leave film fans wishing they had some ruby red spectacles handy.

 "Life of Pi" isn't the only film this season trying to expand the use of 3D imagery into genres other than superhero movies and Michael Bay action flicks. Baz Luhrmann is also experimenting with extra dimensionality in his upcoming adaptation of "The Great Gatsby."

Fox clearly thinks it has an awards contender on its hands, releasing "Life of Pi" on Novemeber 21, 2012, at the height of the Oscar race. The cast includes Tobey Maguire, Irrfan Kahn and newcomer Suraj Sharma.