The ‘Saw’ franchise, characterized by its notorious traps, chilling jump scares, and memorable theme music, has left a significant mark on horror cinema and popular culture. Its influence extends beyond films, even permeating trends on platforms like TikTok. Created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell, the series has expanded into a complex universe with nine films, a spin-off, and an upcoming eleventh installment.
However, despite its ongoing production, the franchise has faced numerous challenges. A critical turning point occurred in ‘Saw III’, where the unexpected death of the central character, John Kramer (Jigsaw), left a significant void. While this entry stands out as a strong addition to the series, its consequences were far-reaching. The death of Jigsaw not only hindered the franchise’s ability to maintain its replicable formula but also complicated the timeline. Tobin Bell, who portrayed John Kramer, continued to appear in the series despite his character’s demise, raising questions about the decision to kill off such a pivotal figure so early.
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In the wake of ‘Saw III’, the franchise introduced several successors to Jigsaw, diluting the impact of the original character. Though some successors displayed moments of creativity, none could replicate the complexity and moral ambiguity that defined Jigsaw. This lack of depth left fans longing for the original character’s return, as his absence became increasingly felt in later films.
The intricate plotlines introduced in ‘Saw IV’ added to the confusion, creating a trend of convoluted timelines and retcons that hindered the franchise’s coherence. As the narrative struggled with these complexities, it became evident that maintaining the franchise’s original essence was increasingly challenging.
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As we look forward to ‘Saw XI’, scheduled for release on 26th September 2025, it remains to be seen how the filmmakers will address these issues. With Kevin Greutert returning as director, there is hope for a revitalization that pays homage to the franchise’s roots while navigating its complicated legacy.
–Farheen Ali