Saw X (2023) is the latest entry in the iconic horror franchise, directed by Kevin Greutert, who also directed Saw VI and Saw 3D. Set between the events of Saw and Saw II, the film brings back the franchise’s most famous antagonist, John Kramer (Tobin Bell), in a storyline that mixes intense psychological horror with the series’ signature traps and moral dilemmas.

Plot Summary: The story follows John Kramer, also known as Jigsaw, who is terminally ill with cancer and travels to Mexico seeking a last-hope treatment that claims to be a miracle cure. However, when he realizes the treatment is a scam designed to exploit desperate patients, John’s sense of justice kicks in, and he decides to put the people responsible through his own brand of “therapy.” With help from his apprentice, Amanda Young (Shawnee Smith), John sets up deadly traps to test the morals and survival instincts of those who manipulated him.

Unlike previous installments that focused on elaborate, interconnected plotlines and multiple traps, Saw X is more intimate, centering on John’s quest for justice and revenge. The narrative dives into John’s psyche, providing fans with a closer look at his motives and humanity, even as he executes his brutal tests. The traps in Saw X are designed to push the characters to confront their greed and dishonesty, bringing them face-to-face with the twisted consequences of their actions.

Highlights:

• Tobin Bell’s Return: Bell’s portrayal of Jigsaw has always been central to the franchise, and his return gives this installment added depth. His performance provides a mix of intensity, charisma, and underlying vulnerability as a man battling cancer.
• Enhanced Psychological Horror: Saw X focuses more on suspense and psychological tension, making the story feel more personal and compelling.
• Well-Designed Traps: The traps are intense, visually gruesome, and more intricately connected to the victims’ actions, adding thematic weight to the terror.

Pros:

• Character-Driven Storyline: The film offers more insight into John’s character, which deepens the narrative and enhances emotional engagement.
• Suspenseful Pacing: With a more focused plot, Saw X delivers tension and dread without relying on complicated subplots, creating a streamlined and gripping experience.

Cons:

• Graphic Gore: As expected in a Saw film, the traps are brutal, so viewers sensitive to gore and explicit scenes may find this overwhelming.
• Limited Expansion of the Franchise: Although it dives deeper into John’s character, it doesn’t necessarily push the overall story arc forward.

Verdict: Saw X is a return to form for the franchise, centering on its most iconic character and focusing on psychological horror and moral dilemmas. Tobin Bell’s performance, combined with intense traps and a well-paced storyline, makes this a must-watch for fans of the series, especially those interested in understanding the motivations behind Jigsaw’s actions. Saw X provides fresh insights while staying true to the themes that have made Saw a staple in horror.

Suggested Video for You: If you enjoyed Saw X, check out Saw VI, which also explores Jigsaw’s moral philosophy and delves deeper into the motivations behind his traps.