I have been a massive fan of the entire Saw franchise ever since I binge watched the movies during my freshman year of college. Since then, I have constantly brought them up as my favorite horror franchise when discussing horror movies. I have even previously written about the series to a certain extent here on the Odyssey. So, when I first heard about the Jigsaw movie, I was naturally excited. I was beyond excited and as such, when I sat down and watched the movie with friends I couldn't wait to watch it.
As I left the theater, I felt a sense of disappointment, attempting to bring in some new elements, as well as some flair of older elements here and there. But when I compare it to the rest of the series, this new addition to the Saw series feels out of place, and more like some fan fiction addition rather than a faithful sequel.
To me, the massive twists and turns that the series has had beforehand are what made me love the series so much. That there could be a scene in the 5th movie that makes a revelation about the 1st. But this new film brings in new elements, but while they might work in a separated instance, when merged with the rest of the series it's out of place to a massive degree. It's very distracting and really cuts down on the enjoyment.
The film has a different camera work compared to the rest of the series, it's shot more like an action film as opposed to the way the film has been traditionally filmed to this point. While it's a little refreshing to see something different, it's distracting given what's been experienced before.
In addition, the new traps that have been brought in are creativity to say the very least, but they really don't compare to anything that's been seen in the past, which ends up making them somewhat forgettable.
The film isn't without some enjoyable elements. Tobin Bell is always a treasure of a performance. While his time onscreen was short, it was always a joy to watch. Charlie Clouser also returns for the film's soundtrack, his score is very much a joy to listen too.
Overall, I think it's more of an "ok" film. It's nothing good, but it's certainly nothing that is terrible either. There is without a doubt room for sequels, and I certainly hope they do continue the series. But, there is without a doubt room for improvement too. Better traps, better mysteries, and better tone is without a doubt, a must.
5/10
