"Saw X" Review: A Worthy Addition to Franchise

Introduction:

Horror movie fans have been fascinated by the "Saw" series for nearly 20 years. The series has gained widespread popularity due to its distinctive combination of gory traps and bizarre narrative. Fans can now celebrate as the tenth installment "Saw X" comes to screens with blood, guts and a little bit of heart. This horror, mystery and thriller film directed by Kevin Gruert aims to meet the audience's expectations of thrill and mystery. Why “Saw X” is a valuable addition to the franchise will be discussed in this review.

1. A Fascination with Sadistic Games:

For better or worse, the "Saw" movies have always fascinated audiences with their inventively staged kills and sadistic games. The first film, released in 2004, introduced the world to John Kramer, also known as Jigsaw, an avenging angel with brain cancer. Jigsaw appears in every edition of "Saw" and serves as the franchise's beating heart. His arbitrary logic leads him to kidnap wrongdoers and subject them to his rusty traps. Those who survive often gain a new lease on life, creating a bizarre dynamic where viewers root for the twisted antihero.

2. The Plot of "Saw X":

The events of "Saw X" take place between the first and second films. Tobin Bell's character, John Kramer, travels to Mexico for a fake experimental medical operation. Their potential victims turned out to be scam artists who perpetrated the scam, opening the door to sinister traps and ethical dilemmas. John's betrayal is developed in unexpectedly detailed ways by director Kevin Gruert, giving the story a depth that the earlier films lacked. While it may raise questions regarding racial representation, the film's raw joys show us all to be the same on the inside. The film's setting on the outskirts of Mexico City provides a charming touch.

3. The Return of Familiar Faces:

One of the highlights of "Saw X" is the return of familiar faces from the franchise. Shawnee Smith reprises her role as Amanda, Jigsaw's loyal accomplice. Her presence adds a nostalgic touch and helps tie the movie to the larger "Saw" universe. The interactions between John and Amanda provide moments of soul-baring and serve as a reminder of the twisted bond they share. Additionally, the film includes fist-pump-inducing appearances by symbols from the extended "Saw" universe, such as a puppet reminiscent of a shrunken-head Michael Jackson. These nods to the franchise's history will surely delight long-time fans.

4. Enhanced Storytelling and Cinematography:

Unlike some of its predecessors, "Saw X" focuses on storytelling and cinematography. Director Kevin Greutert dials back on the frenetic editing techniques that characterized earlier films, allowing the story to unfold in a more coherent manner. The movie employs a jaundiced sepia filter to signal the shift to the exotic territory of Mexico City. This attention to visual detail enhances the overall viewing experience and adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The well-groomed look of "Saw X" sets it apart from the blood and guts equivalent of white noise that some previous films in the franchise fell victim to.

5. A Touch of Self-Awareness:

“Saw X” embraces the ridiculousness of its premise and embraces a hint of self-awareness. Aware of the absurdity of his cruel joke, John Kramer jokingly calls himself a "life coach." This self-awareness gives the film a dimension of humor, which also enables the audience to enjoy how extraordinary it is. The viewer is still able to feel genuine emotions, even if "Saw X" doesn't take itself too seriously, considering they have a soft spot for the franchise's veterans.

6. A Step Away from Political Baiting:

Unlike its offshoot “Spiral,” which links the Jigsaw Killer’s moral code to the Black Lives Matter movement, “Saw X” stays away from political overtones. The film does not attempt to raise any major social issue; Instead, it focuses on the main story and the personal experiences of the characters. “Saw X” gives the brand a much-needed comeback by refocusing on the essential components that have made it so popular.

7. The Enduring Appeal of Jigsaw:

Tobin Bell's portrayal of Jigsaw remains a standout feature of the franchise. The audience is still mesmerized by his laid-back personality as a sober social preacher. Bell gives a terrifying and powerful performance as John Kramer in "Saw X." The cast plays the role impressively, giving goosebumps and even a few laughs. Jigsaw's continuing appeal stems from its nuanced moral compass and ability to make audiences reevaluate their notions of good and evil.

Conclusion:

“Saw X” is an worthy addition to the series as it has the thrill, adventure, and deep story that audiences have grown to love. The film differs from previous films due to director Kevin Gruert's emphasis on better storytelling and photography. The re-appearance of recognizable characters and the inclusion of self-awareness in the story give depth and humor to the film. Avoiding political overtones, “Saw X” doesn’t hold back when it comes to delving into the morally gray areas of its brutal games. This movie will undoubtedly scare and entertain viewers thanks to Tobin Bell's compelling performance as Jigsaw. Be prepared for the traps, tension, and little hearts that the "Saw X" has to offer.