Watch TrailerSaw X Movie Review: When the credits rolled and the lights came on, I noticed I had sunk into my seat and was in awe. After a long time, I found myself so engrossed in a film. I think the Saw series does that to you. It makes you squirm, flinch and, in my case, even cover your eyes because of the unapologetic gore involved. Saw X has managed to keep the tradition going and serve a ‘bloody’ good film to the franchise.
As per the series, Lionsgate-distributed Saw X is the 10th film in the franchise. However, as per the timeline, it serves as the sequel to Saw (2004). Following the events of the James Wan directorial, John Kramer (played by Tobin Bell) tries to find a way to fight his brain cancer. His search for a cure leads him to Mexico where an ‘illegal’ team of ‘doctors’ promise to stop the cancer cells from spreading and promise patients a new lease on life.
While all seems well at first, John soon realises that all is not right. As soon as he learns the truth, the games kick in and you find yourself watching blood spill everywhere, flesh being ripped apart and bones being broken.
Saw X reminded me that the Saw franchise is not for the weak-hearted. Director Kevin Greutert incorporates scenes which involve pulling the guts, cutting off legs and what not to really get under your skin. The torture games as obviously the highlight of the film but Kevin also manages to get the audiences a lot more involved in John’s character arc. Throughout the movie, we see a lot more shades of him. The director also includes a couple of fitting nods and the perfect Jigsaw callbacks to the first film which not only brings in the nostalgia factor but also keeps the timeline intact.
Kevin has also served as the editor of the film and manages to balance the right amount of torture and story. However, I did find the second half a little slower than I would have enjoyed it, making me want to wrap things a tad faster. The highlights of the film are undoubtedly the sets and cinematography. Cinematography Nick Matthews captures the intensity of each ‘game’ during the second half without dramatising or going overboard with it. Charlie Clouser’s music is absolutely haunting, setting the right tone for the film.
On the acting front, Synnøve Macody Lund was the star of the second half. Although it is out and out Tobin Bell’s film (it is his performance that keeps the film together), the Norwegian actress levels up with him in crucial scenes. Shawnee Smith as a young Amanda also helps Tobin to keep the ball rolling without stealing the spotlight from him.
While Saw X emerges as a treat to the loyal fandom, it serves as an interesting watch to those who are not a regular to this game’s class. Given that it is set just shortly after the events of the first film, a newbie can watch the Saw and give the franchise a shot.
Bottom Line: If you are a fan of the franchise, you are in for a treat!
