Blumhouse Buys ‘Saw’ Stake From Twisted Pictures

Blumhouse has officially acquired a stake in the iconic 'Saw' franchise from Twisted Pictures, marking a major shift in the future of the billion-dollar horror movie series. The deal, years in the making, sees producers Oren Koules and Mark Burg handing over partial control of the long-running saga, while retaining a significant legacy in the franchise's development.

Although specific financial terms have not been revealed, Lionsgate will continue to distribute future 'Saw' films, a role it has held since the debut of the original movie in 2004. Additionally, Content Partners—the parent company of Revolution Studios—has acquired a portion of the franchise's existing library, alongside Burg’s retained share.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

What's The Future After The Acquisition?

The acquisition signals a creative reunion, bringing the 'Saw' universe back under the guidance of its original creators. James Wan, who directed and co-wrote the first movie with Leigh Whannell, will once again play a pivotal role through his Atomic Monster banner, which merged with Blumhouse in 2024.

Jason Blum, CEO and founder of Blumhouse, described the 'Saw' franchise as a cultural touchstone in horror. He highlighted the power of backing a horror franchise that has not only shaped the genre but also proven its staying power across decades. Blum expressed excitement over reuniting with James Wan and Leigh Whannell, noting their involvement would play a crucial role in shaping the future of the series.

Image Courtesy: Lionsgate Movies/ YouTube

For James Wan, this marks a thrilling homecoming to the 'Saw' universe—the first time he's stepping back into the creative fold since launching the franchise that redefined modern horror. He expressed enthusiasm about revisiting the original vision while pushing the franchise into bold, uncharted territory. Leigh Whannell, the visionary behind modern horror favourites like 'The Invisible Man' and 'The Wolf Man', is poised to inject bold new life into future projects with his signature storytelling style and inventive direction.

Talks between Blumhouse and Twisted Pictures kicked off in 2023, but the deal hit a few speed bumps as both sides struggled to agree on a price tag. The 'Saw' franchise, now comprising 10 films, has amassed over $1 billion at the global box office, solidifying its status as one of the most lucrative horror properties of all time.

Image Courtesy: Lionsgate Movies/ YouTube

'Saw' is a Million Dollar Franchise

The original 'Saw' film, produced on a modest $1.2 million budget, shocked the industry when it opened with $18.2 million domestically and eventually earned $104 million worldwide. Its home entertainment performance was equally impressive, further cementing its legacy.

The most recent instalment, 'Saw X' (2023), reignited fan interest and was poised to launch an 11th film, though development stalled earlier this year.

Oren Koules explained that with the success of the tenth film, the time felt right to pass the torch. He reflected on the 20-year journey with Lionsgate and shared his pride in what they’ve built, expressing gratitude to the fans and celebrating the return of Wan and Whannell. He described Blum as the perfect choice to lead the next chapter of the franchise.

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Image Courtesy: Lionsgate Movies/ YouTube

Mark Burg also looked back fondly, recalling how he and Koules discovered Wan and Whannell in 2003 and decided to finance what would become a genre-defining film. He credited the franchise’s long-term success to its passionate fan base and the talented creative team behind the scenes. Following the recent passing of longtime executive producer Jason Constantine, Burg shared that the timing felt right to step away and explore new storytelling opportunities.

Burg extended thanks to the cast, crew, and Lionsgate executives who contributed to the franchise’s success across a decade of filmmaking. He voiced his hopes that Jigsaw and the broader Saw universe will continue to thrive for years to come.

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Image Courtesy: Lionsgate Movies/ YouTube

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair Adam Fogelson offered his full support for the ownership transition. He acknowledged the exceptional contributions of Koules and Burg to a franchise that played a significant role in Lionsgate’s rise. Fogelson expressed confidence that the future of 'Saw' is in expert hands with James Wan, Jason Blum, and the creative team at Blumhouse.

CAA Evolution served as the exclusive financial advisor in the transaction, which could reshape the future of horror filmmaking under the Blumhouse and Atomic Monster banners.

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