Gal Gadot is set to ignite the screen in Ruin, a heart-pounding World War II thriller directed by Niki Caro. Joined by Matthias Schoenaerts, Gadot plays a Holocaust survivor on a relentless quest for justice in post-war Germany. With filming slated for early 2026 and a script that topped the 2017 Black List, this film promises raw emotion and intense drama. Here’s why Ruin is already one of Hollywood’s most anticipated projects.
A Tale of Revenge in Post-War Ruins
Set in the rubble of post-WWII Germany, Ruin tells a gripping story of vengeance and uneasy alliances. Gadot stars as a recently freed concentration camp survivor, haunted by loss and driven to hunt down the Nazi SS squad responsible for wartime atrocities. Her unlikely partner is a former German soldier, played by Schoenaerts, who seeks redemption for his own dark past. Together, they navigate a shattered landscape, confronting moral dilemmas and personal demons in a high-stakes mission.
The screenplay, crafted by cousins Kaz and Ryan Firpo—known for Eternals—earned top honors on the 2017 Black List, a testament to its compelling narrative. Directed by Niki Caro, whose credits include Mulan and The Zookeeper’s Wife, Ruin blends visceral action with deep emotional resonance, drawing comparisons to Inglourious Basterds for its bold, revenge-fueled premise.
A war-torn cityscape, mirroring the post-WWII setting of Ruin’s intense narrative. Image by Pexels.
Gal Gadot’s Powerful Performance
Gadot, celebrated for her role as Wonder Woman, brings a personal connection to Ruin as the granddaughter of an Auschwitz survivor. Her commitment to Holocaust narratives, seen in her narration for an Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial film, adds authenticity to her portrayal. In Ruin, she steps into a raw, grounded role, far from her superhero persona, showcasing her range as an actress. Gadot also produces the film through Pilot Wave Motion Pictures, her company with husband Jaron Varsano, emphasizing her dedication to impactful storytelling.
Co-star Matthias Schoenaerts, known for Rust and Bone and currently filming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, brings a brooding intensity to the German soldier. His nuanced performances in films like The Old Guard 2 make him a perfect foil for Gadot’s fierce survivor. Together, their chemistry promises to anchor the film’s complex exploration of justice and redemption.
Niki Caro’s Visionary Direction
Niki Caro, a New Zealand filmmaker, is no stranger to WWII dramas, having directed the poignant The Zookeeper’s Wife. Her ability to weave historical accuracy with emotional depth, as seen in Whale Rider and North Country, makes her an ideal choice for Ruin. Caro also serves as a producer alongside Gadot, Varsano, and Marc Butan of MadRiver Pictures, ensuring a cohesive vision. With principal photography set for early 2026, the film is already generating buzz at the Cannes Film Market, where The Veterans is handling international sales.
A Star-Studded Production
Ruin boasts a powerhouse team. The Firpo cousins’ script, praised for its moral complexity, is brought to life by a cast and crew with proven track records. Executive producers include Gillian Hormel of Ludascripts and Mary Aloe of Aloe Entertainment, with Evan Powell overseeing for MadRiver. Gadot’s Pilot Wave, fresh off projects like Heart of Stone, continues to champion bold narratives. Meanwhile, Schoenaerts’ upcoming roles in The Way of the Wind and The Old Guard 2 keep him in the spotlight, adding to the film’s allure.
The project’s journey to production has been long, with Gadot attached since 2017 and earlier talks involving Margot Robbie and director Justin Kurzel. Now, with Caro at the helm, Ruin is poised to deliver a fresh take on WWII cinema, blending gritty realism with emotional weight. Social media platforms like X are abuzz with excitement, with fans praising Gadot’s bold career choices.
Conclusion: A Thriller to Watch
Ruin, starring Gal Gadot and Matthias Schoenaerts, is shaping up to be a cinematic tour de force. Directed by Niki Caro, this post-WWII thriller combines a stellar cast, a gripping Black List script, and a story that resonates with today’s audiences. As Gadot channels her heritage into a role of resilience and revenge, Ruin promises to leave a lasting impact. Set to begin filming in 2026, this film is one to watch for fans of historical dramas and intense thrillers alike. Will it redefine WWII cinema? The stage is set for something unforgettable.
