Saw X is the latest installment of the Saw franchise and explores the untold chapter of Jigsaw’s most personal game. Set between the events of Saw I and Saw II, the movie follows John Kramer who travels to Mexico for a risky medical procedure to cure his cancer, only to discover that the operation is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable. Armed with newfound purpose, John returns to work, turning the tables on the con artists in his signature visceral way through a series of terrifying traps.
If you are a fan of the Saw franchise, Saw X is worth the watch. This movie feels like a welcome return to form and wipes out the silliness that came with some of the franchise’s previous installments.
The film stars Tobin Bell and Shawnee Smith reprising their roles from the previous films, with Synnøve Macody Lund, Steven Brand, Renata Vaca, and Michael Beach. Saw X was directed and edited by Kevin Greutert and written by Peter Goldfinger and Josh Stolberg.
Saw X presents a singular, streamlined story of revenge that works from a clear channel of logic. It’s thoroughly unpleasant, but that’s rather the point. Unlike previous Saw movies, the gore and violence in Saw X feel justified and necessary for the story’s progression. The suspense is incredibly well-crafted, and the traps are more intricate and terrifying than ever before.
One of the film’s biggest highlights is the heavy emphasis on John Kramer’s mentor/protégé connection with Amanda. The movie strikes the ideal balance between standing on its own two feet and enhancing the franchise mythology. The plot progresses smoothly, and the actors deliver convincing performances.
With Saw X, we see more of John Kramer’s origins, as we watch him navigate his cancer diagnosis and his journey towards becoming the infamous Jigsaw. Tobin Bell’s performance is genuinely captivating, and he makes Jigsaw’s oft-repeated declaration, “I’d like to play a game,” scary as hell. Bell’s raspy voice and menacing gravitas create an unforgettable Jigsaw character.
While the movie’s plot can be predictable, it still manages to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The twists and turns are well-crafted and make for an engaging watch.
The Saw franchise has now seen ten films and has become a billion-dollar franchise. Saw X brings the franchise back to its roots, and it’s a welcome return to form. The movie is a top-tier Saw film, with a well-crafted story, convincing performances, and terrifying traps. This movie is not for the faint of heart, but if you are a fan of the genre, Saw X is worth the watch.
Saw X hit theaters on September 29, 2023. See the film in theaters before it’s gone or watch digitally at home!
This review is a Feature Review during the Capes and Tights Horror Week 2023.
