There hasn't been a movie in recent times that takes the Hitchcock route of terror that slowly reaches into your soul and stays there whenever you encounter some previously innocuous stimulus. For instance, you may have never thought that birds were to be feared until you saw Hitchcock's "The Birds," and you know you thought twice about jumping into the ocean after Spielberg's "Jaws." At long last, modern Hollywood has brought us a movie entitled "The Ruins" that digs into your brain and stays there.
Four friends are on vacation in South America, enjoying the sun and pool at their luxurious resort. While there, they meet the German tourist Mathias (Joe Anderson) who apparently has the location of a mysterious archaeological dig site out in the jungle that is supposed to be breathtaking. After some discussion and debate, the four decide to tag along. However, when they arrive, they are trapped by a band of locals with guns that won't allow them to leave. They are trapped at the ruins and have some interesting flora to keep them company as they search for some escape out of the jungle.
Let me tell you, I never really had an interest in going to Mayan or other ancient ruins, but now that I've seen this movie - it's just not going to happen. We don't know what's living in the jungles of South America, but this film (based on the novel by Scott B. Smith) puts forth a frightening foliage that may exist that literally eats you alive. Don't even get me started on its flowers (yes, flowers are now scary). The film will get under your skin, and you'll be talking about it (if not canceling some plane tickets) for days and weeks to come. If nothing else, it's a great ride with a truly creepy story. Take the plunge into "The Ruins." (3 out of 4 stars)