The Ruins (2008)

Director: Carter Smith

Starring: Shawn Ashmore, Jena Malone, Jonathan Tucker

A group of friends whose leisurely Mexican holiday takes a turn for the worse when they, along with a fellow tourist, embark on a remote archaeological dig in the jungle where something evil lives among the ruins.

Impressive feature film debut from Carter Smith, who only did shorts and music videos prior to this. ‘The Ruins’ was so much better than expected, thanks to a very good cast, interesting script and a constant foreboding atmosphere.

Who would have thought a film about people trapped on top of a mysterious ruin could be this interesting? The visuals and make-up are stunning. The actors were just so good that I believed their fear, pain and agony. Some scenes will make you cringe in horror, so be forewarned. This was indeed a very nice surprise!

The film was nominated for Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Director, Best Horror Movie of the Year, Best Wide-Release Film.