BY Michael Fleming

{Variety} - Ellen Page is set to topline "Drag Me to Hell," a horror film that Sam Raimi will direct as his next film.

Universal Pictures has acquired domestic and some international rights to the film, which begins shooting March 17 in Los Angeles.

U Pictures chairman Marc Shmuger and co-chairman David Linde made the deal with Ghost House Pictures partners Raimi and Rob Tapert.

The film's described as a morality tale about the unwitting recipient of a supernatural curse. Pic marks a genre return for Raimi after directing a trio of "Spider-Man" films.

In addition to North America, U will distribute in Germany, Spain and Latin America. Mandate Intl. will handle all other overseas territories.

Pic was scripted by Sam and Ivan Raimi, and Tapert will produce with Grant Curtis and Josh Donen. Mandate's Nathan Kahane and Joe Drake will exec produce.

The film will be next for Page, who is also attached to star in "Whip It," the directorial debut of Drew Barrymore.

Donna Langley and Lawrence Grey will oversee for Universal.

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