Film Review: SAW X

Genre: Horror / Mystery/ thriller

Cert: 18 cert

Director: Kevin Greutert

Screenwriter: Pete GoldfingerJosh Stolberg

Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Synnøve Macody Lund, Steven Brand, Renata Vaca, Joshua Okamoto, Octavio Hinojosa, Paulette Hernandez, Jorge Briseño, Costas Mandylor, Michael Beach, Isan Beomhyun Lee, David Alfano, Katie Barberi, Lucía Gómez-Robledo, Donagh Gordon, Sebastián Torres, Cristo Ruiz.

Running time: 1h 58m

Parents are advised to read before viewing the film as some scenes may contain scenes unsuitable for younger viewers.

Sex & Nudity: A man and woman kiss.

A man is shown bare-chested.

Violence & Gore: Being a saw film, expect a lot of blood traps and people being killed in the most horrifying way 

Profanity: There are several uses of "fuck". There are also some uses of "shit", "bitch", and "cunt".

Alcohol/drugs: A woman swallows pills.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: The deaths may be intense for some viewers.

The traps may be intense for some viewers.

 Story: John Kramer (Tobin Bell) is back. The most chilling instalment of the SAW franchise yet explores the untold chapter of Jigsaw's most personal game. Set between the events of SAW I and II, a sick and desperate John travels to Mexico for a risky and experimental medical procedure in hopes of a miracle cure for his cancer - only to discover the entire operation is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable. Armed with a newfound purpose, John returns to his work, turning the tables on the con artists in his signature visceral way through a series of ingenious and terrifying traps.

Review: SAW X" (2023) marks a bold continuation of the iconic horror franchise, offering a mix of familiar traps and inventive twists. The film excels in maintaining the series' trademark suspense and gore, with intricate traps that showcase the creativity of the filmmakers. The narrative seamlessly weaves together elements of mystery and horror, keeping audiences guessing until the final reveal.

One of the film's strengths lies in its commitment to the core elements that made the "SAW" series a cult favourite. The intricate, Rube Goldberg-style traps are both horrifying and mesmerizing, delivering the visceral thrills that fans have come to expect. The cinematography captures the gruesome details effectively, creating a visceral and unsettling visual experience.

The return of the Jigsaw Killer, or a successor, is handled with a delicate balance of homage and innovation. The film pays respects to the franchise's legacy while introducing new layers to the ongoing narrative. This blend of familiarity and freshness keeps longtime fans engaged and allows newcomers to appreciate the story without feeling lost.

The performances in "SAW X" are commendable, with the actors effectively conveying the terror and desperation of their characters. The film benefits from a cast committed to delivering the intensity required for a successful entry into the horror genre. The pacing is generally well-executed, maintaining a relentless tension that aligns with the franchise's trademark style.

However, "SAW X" is not without its drawbacks. Some of the traps, while visually captivating, may feel overly convoluted, sacrificing the simplicity that made earlier instalments so impactful. The reliance on extreme gore, while expected in the franchise, might alienate more squeamish viewers and risks desensitizing the shock value that made the original "SAW" groundbreaking.

The plot, while engaging, may at times stretch believability, requiring a willing suspension of disbelief. Additionally, for those less familiar with the franchise's extensive lore, certain references and callbacks might feel like missed opportunities for further explanation, potentially leaving some viewers confused.

Overall: In conclusion, "SAW X" successfully delivers the gruesome spectacle and psychological twists that define the franchise. It caters to both longtime fans and newcomers, with a mix of familiar elements and fresh narrative directions. While some traps may veer into excess, and the intricate plot demands attention, the film effectively revitalizes the "SAW" legacy for a new era of horror enthusiasts.

Rating: 4.5 OUT OF 5 For Entertainment / 7.7 out of 10 as it was a little predictable