15 Horror Movies You Probably Didn't Know Were Based On Books

Releasing in 2008, The Ruins came and went in a flash without leaving much of an impression on the horror world. While it didn't seem to resonate with critics and general audiences, it still very much works as a nasty treat for gorehounds. Even then however, when compared to its source material it feels like a downgrade in just about every department.

Another movie among countless warning Americans away from taking exotic vacations, The Ruins, based off Scott Smith's 2006 novel, tracks a group of tourist as they search for a missing friend at an archeological dig in a Mayan ruin. Things quickly take a turn for the worst when they must face the reality that a missing person is the least of their problems.

If the movie did a good job at terrifying you, then Smith's novel will chill you to the bone. He paints images in your head that, much like the villainous vines, will burrow themselves under your skin and refuse to leave. Oh, and if you thought the ending to the film was dark, it's down right cheerful compared to the book's.