It’s been almost nineteen years since Saw hit theaters and exploded in popularity. Created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell, the original film has one of the greatest twists of all time, and its unique premise and success have produced a billion-dollar franchise. Though the tenth installment, Saw X is a direct sequel to the first film, with a strong script that makes it one of the best Saw features to date.

​

When I watched the Saw X trailer, I had a good feeling about the film and the story the filmmakers wanted to explore. The events of Saw X take place between Saw and Saw II, with all eyes on John Kramer. Surprisingly, none of the previous features have developed an in-depth story focused on our antagonist. Instead, Jigsaw has always been the mastermind in the shadows, taking a backseat to the elected game participants, and the traps they must navigate to prove how much their lives mean to them. 

​

That said, Saw X gives viewers a completely different viewing experience, which will be sure to please fans. There are moments when the film is compelling and moving, which you wouldn’t expect from the franchise. I won’t go as far as to say that you’ll feel sorry for Jigsaw. He’s still a serial killer, even if he refuses to believe it himself. Saw X does, however, show a softer side to him, carried by the talented Tobin Bell. 

​

The first hour of Saw X focuses solely on Kramer, and my eyes were glued to the screen. Starting as a drama, viewers learn more about Jigsaw’s appreciation for life and his will to find a cure for his cancer. This results in him traveling to Mexico to partake in alternative treatments, where he gets scammed by a group of con artists. 

​

As you’d imagine, tricking the ferocious Jigsaw doesn’t go down too well, and those involved pay the price. Rest assured that when the traps are finally revealed, they are gruesome, with some being the goriest of the franchise yet. Saw X also sees the exciting return of Amanda (Shawnee Smith) as Kramer’s apprentice and confidant, giving fans the nostalgia and feel of earlier installments and more insight into the relationship between the two.

​

The players chosen this time around are truly awful people, which might have you questioning whose side you should be on. Cecilia Pederson will be a character fans will love to hate, and Synnøve Macody Lund knocks it out of the park with her performance. The kills certainly have some logic issues, though this is a Saw film, so it’s best not to focus on that and cut Saw X a bit of slack. 

​

Overall, Saw X is a suspenseful, gripping entry to the franchise, and proves that with the right formula, a sequel visited years later can work. Also, be sure to stick around for the mid-credit scene.