Saw X.
Saw X is a surprising return from the (now almost) 20-year-old franchise that still hasn’t lost its edge or strange charm. And it's no surprise seeing numerous returning faces like Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, and many people who have been cast in the previous films.
The film takes place between Saw movies 1 & 2, so it’s a nice fit for newcomers, but even better for those who have followed the story from the start. It follows John Kramer (Jigsaw) primarily as we see him trying to find a cure for his brain cancer. But after twists and turns, you suddenly start to feel strangely emotional for a man who’s killed so many and will go on to kill more. It even asks the question - “Are you just as bad as Kramer for wanting to see these people hurt?”
It goes without saying the story hasn’t lost its touch when it comes to gore and disturbing imagery. With new traps that push the levels of gore to the limits, making you regret having a big meal before seeing the film. But seeing as this is one of the main selling points for the franchise, as a whole, I enjoyed how far they went at times. The team behind it all really went all out on the trap designs and how it all feels like some of the original movies.
Saw X is a gross and gory film but also a strangely emotional one. With topics such as drug abuse and making the right decisions, it also covers larger topics of handling the great burden of life-threatening illnesses. We just hope you don’t decide to stick someone in a reverse bear trap if this has happened to you!
Obviously not a film for the whole family. But if you enjoy the series or just want to watch some people fight for their lives in a Saw trap, I’d recommend this movie. Just make sure you’ve got the stomach for it!