The gruesome world of Saw returns in its tenth installment to the silver screen Sept. 29.
Kevin Greutert, who directed the disliked “Saw 3D” and “Saw IV”, returns to direct “Saw X” with a different approach that makes the film very enjoyable.
Rotten Tomatoes critics described Greutert’s previous Saw films as “lack luster” and “more disturbing than compelling” due to their focus on the gruesome aspects of the films, rather than a captivating story.
For this new installment of the franchise, Greutert decided to change things by making “Saw X” a character-driven story that focuses on John Kramer, the mastermind behind the Jigsaw games.
While previous movies have tried, and failed, to depict the “human” side of John Kramer, the first act of “Saw X” takes that to a different level by depicting him at his most vulnerable state, both physically and emotionally. Greutert does an excellent job at humanizing the man behind the Jigsaw games.
The audience cannot help but root for John in the second act when the games begin. Through these two acts, the film dives deeper into the way John thinks of people and the games that he creates.
In its third act, the film explores a concept that fans have been waiting to see for years. John in one of his own games. At such a moment, the film is almost perfect. Nearly.
Most of the film is carefully thought out, and things are explained with such detail that moments are easy to follow and understand. Consequences to actions feel rewarding, and most importantly, make sense. However, the ending of the film does not follow this method of explaining things, as it ends prematurely and leaves the audience with questions.
Especially since the film is sort of a prequel, occurring in between the events of “Saw” and “Saw II,” the audience could have benefited from more explanation at the end.
Despite its ending, “Saw X” is a horror film for moviegoers with its captivating, character-driven story, and its gruesome horror, typical of the Saw franchise. It is especially fun for fans of the franchise, as the film rewards fans with returning characters and anticipated fan concepts.
