SAW X
Lionsgate
Digital Download
Certificate 18
The review below does contain spoilers but what I can say is that you need to watch this movie, it brings a whole new layer to the legacy of Jigsaw.
When a movie franchise reaches its 10th instalment you could be forgiven for being wary of the quality and substance of the final product. Some I could mention have failed miserably relying on formulaic plotting and a performance phoned in by the lead. SAW X, I’m very happy to report is probably the best sequel in the whole run and allows Tobin Bell to deliver one of his strongest takes of the Jigsaw killer.
Set between the events of SAW I and II, a sick and desperate John Kramer (Bell) 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, the infamous serial killer returns to his work, turning the tables on the con artists in his signature visceral way through devious, deranged, and ingenious traps.
First things first, SAW X isn’t your normal SAW movie, it sets itself up from the start to be something far removed from the usual expectations. This is its master stroke. Kramer has been dealt many devastating blows in past movies but not with such sensitivity. Tobin Bell exudes vulnerability; Kramer is a shell of a man looking for a miracle and though we have a glimpse of Jigsaw early on it’s a while before we’re into familiar territory. It’s this first 40 minutes or so which raises the movie above all the others, everything from the script to the score packs an emotional and heartfelt punch. When the penny drops that he’s been scammed then you cheer him on, even though he does (as usual) go to extremes to get his point across.
Joining Kramer on his quest to right wrongs is Amanda (Shawnee Smith), who is also given more depth than she’s had in past entries. She's given far more dialogue which builds her character, even injecting some humour to the piece.
The traps are inventive, outlandish and incredibly violent so don’t worry if you think the series has gone soft and it as to contain one of the most brutal moments of any SAW money.
SAW X is the perfect way to extend Jigsaw’s cinematic legacy and easily one of the best horror movies I’ve seen this year.
SAW X is available to buy and rent on digital 30 October from Lionsgate UK
