Jigsaw abducts a doctor in order to keep himself alive while he watches his new apprentice put an unlucky citizen named Jeff through a brutal test.
In the realm of horror cinema, the Saw franchise has carved out its own unique niche. Far from being conventional gore-fests, these films interweave visceral violence with twisted moral lessons that question the essence of human existence. The third instalment, Saw III, continues this exploration of the macabre, presenting viewers with an intriguing narrative that delves deep into themes of forgiveness, vengeance, and redemption. While the franchise's trademark traps are still present, this entry aims to tug at heartstrings as much as it does nerves.
Saw III is not your average horror film. It's a disturbing tapestry of violence and ethical dilemmas that push the boundaries of the genre. While the previous films dabbled in life lessons—compassion in the first and paternal love in the second—this instalment delves into the complex theme of forgiveness. John Kramer, known as Jigsaw (Tobin Bell), orchestrates elaborate traps that force his victims to confront their inner demons and learn the value of life through pain and suffering. This time, Jigsaw captures Jeff (Angus Macfadyen), a grief-stricken father consumed by hatred for those he holds responsible for his son's death. Jeff's journey is one of redemption through a series of gruesome trials.
In a departure from its predecessors, Saw III shifts its focus to explore the twisted relationship between Jigsaw and his protégé, Amanda (Shawnee Smith). Amanda takes centre stage, her devotion and jealousy driving the narrative forward. Smith's performance adds depth to Amanda, making her a captivating presence on the screen. The film delves into her emotional journey, intertwining it with the central plot of Jeff's torment and the convoluted web of interconnected lives.
While Saw III attempts to fuse its traps with moral lessons, it sometimes struggles to strike the right balance. The film's screenplay by Leigh Whannell raises questions about vengeance and justice, an unusual perspective for a genre built on graphic violence. Yet, the audience's innate desire to witness the gruesome outcomes of Jigsaw's tests often clashes with the moral message. This dichotomy creates an internal conflict—should we root for the characters' survival or the brutality that comes with it?
Director Darren Lynn Bousman maintains the franchise's signature style of atmospheric cinematography, yet the editing at times prevents us from fully immersing ourselves in its eerie aesthetics. Despite this, Saw III boasts some of the franchise's most intricate and gruesome practical effects. As the series' budget grows, so too does the quality of its gore, providing audiences with inventive ways to cringe and squirm.
With each instalment, the Saw universe grows more complex, and Saw III is no exception. As John's cancer advances, Amanda emerges as a pivotal player, vying for the role of his successor. The film balances multiple narrative strands, including the dynamics between John and Amanda, the ongoing game of survival for Jeff, and the sinister orchestration of it all. The labyrinthine connections between characters keep the audience engaged, even if it occasionally demands a mental juggling act.
Saw III masterfully weaves its characters' struggles with themes of redemption and forgiveness, presenting a gripping exploration of morality and human nature. The film doesn't shy away from posing complex questions: Can forgiveness be genuinely achieved through torment? Are the choices we make in dire situations truly representative of our character? As John's intricate games unfold, these questions take centre stage.
Despite its occasionally disjointed pacing and internal contradictions, Saw III manages to deliver a thought-provoking experience that lingers beyond its shocking moments. The expansion of the Saw mythos continues, intricately weaving the characters' lives together in a tapestry of despair and redemption. With its creative traps, engaging character arcs, and an exploration of human darkness and redemption, Saw III neatly concludes the original trilogy while paving the way for the inevitable sequels that would follow.
Saw III was released in 2006, but Saw X is in NZ cinemas from September 28, 2023