The 10th instalment in the (in)famous Saw franchise, Saw X attempts to take the series back to its original roots by focusing on the narrative aspects instead of revelling in stomach-churning extremity and proves to be the most plot-focused & character-driven entry amongst all sequels. Led by an impressive showcase from Tobin Bell, the film delivers all the expected goods & then some.
Directed by Kevin Greutert (Saw VI & Saw 3D), the story takes place between the events of Saw & Saw II and finds John Kramer exacting retribution against those who wronged him. Greutert is patient in his direction, exercising restraint while setting up the premise but he doesn't hold back once the games are underway. Apart from making it personal for Jigsaw, there is also an effort to humanise him which doesn't work.
The film does well to create intrigue & interest, the storytelling is neat for the most part, and the death traps are downright unsparing. It is only during the last act that the story stumbles with a needless twist but the ending is still somewhat satisfying. Tobin Bell returns to his signature role with new dimensions to explore and makes it look like he never left. His performance is his finest in the saga so far and he's brilliantly supported by Shawnee Smith.
Overall, Saw X is a competently crafted, skilfully told & emotionally involving follow-up chapter that fares a lot better than any & every sequel in the saga so far and ranks amongst the better surprises of the year too. The film could've done without the unneeded twist nor there was any incentive to humanise the Jigsaw Killer, for the story had enough flesh to make us side with his devious revenge plan. All in all, a much welcome entry in a series that's mainly notorious for its violence & gore.
Directed by Kevin Greutert (Saw VI & Saw 3D), the story takes place between the events of Saw & Saw II and finds John Kramer exacting retribution against those who wronged him. Greutert is patient in his direction, exercising restraint while setting up the premise but he doesn't hold back once the games are underway. Apart from making it personal for Jigsaw, there is also an effort to humanise him which doesn't work.
The film does well to create intrigue & interest, the storytelling is neat for the most part, and the death traps are downright unsparing. It is only during the last act that the story stumbles with a needless twist but the ending is still somewhat satisfying. Tobin Bell returns to his signature role with new dimensions to explore and makes it look like he never left. His performance is his finest in the saga so far and he's brilliantly supported by Shawnee Smith.
Overall, Saw X is a competently crafted, skilfully told & emotionally involving follow-up chapter that fares a lot better than any & every sequel in the saga so far and ranks amongst the better surprises of the year too. The film could've done without the unneeded twist nor there was any incentive to humanise the Jigsaw Killer, for the story had enough flesh to make us side with his devious revenge plan. All in all, a much welcome entry in a series that's mainly notorious for its violence & gore.