A sick and desperate John travels to Mexico for a risky and experimental medical procedure in hopes of a miracle cure for his cancer only to discover the entire operation is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable.
Saw X, the latest instalment in the long-running Saw series, takes us on a journey into the depths of John Kramer's character, exploring his struggles and motivations. Positioned between the first and second films in the franchise, this movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to the series. However, it departs from the familiar formula, and in doing so, it raises some questions about the essence of the Saw franchise.
At nearly two hours in duration, Saw X is the longest entry in the Book of Saw series. Regrettably, the opening half-hour of the film feels agonizingly slow, dwelling on John Kramer's personal misfortunes rather than advancing the plot. This extended exposition may test the patience of viewers who have come to expect the rapid pacing of previous Saw films.
One notable departure in Saw X is its treatment of John Kramer, a character beloved by fans. Instead of portraying him solely as the orchestrator of gruesome games, the film frames him as a tragic figure. This shift in focus alters the essence of the story and makes us see Jigsaw in a new light.
The hallmark of the Saw franchise has always been its intricate storytelling, both in the design of deadly traps and in the moral dilemmas faced by its victims. However, Saw X falls short in this regard. Unlike earlier entries where the complexity and mystery were paramount, this instalment explains everything before the victims are even ensnared. The result is a lack of suspense and intrigue.
Moreover, the film abandons the social commentaries that previous Saw movies have touched upon. Themes like police brutality, tabloid celebrity, and healthcare and housing crises take a backseat, replaced by a straightforward revenge narrative. While the simplicity of the story might make it more accessible, it also robs it of the engaging layers that fans have come to expect.
A significant departure in Saw X is the way it portrays John Kramer as a sympathetic figure. We are given a glimpse into his personal life, his home, and his battle with cancer. When he realizes that his unconventional treatment hasn't saved him, the audience is meant to share in his frustration. This shift turns the movie into a horror-revenge story, where the audience finds themselves unexpectedly cheering for the character they once considered the "bad guy."
However, despite this unique angle, Saw X struggles to deliver a compelling or convincing story. It veers away from the series' usual themes of retribution and salvation, opting instead for a revenge-driven narrative that feels somewhat out of place.
Tobin Bell, who portrays John Kramer, deserves commendation for his efforts in the film. Despite the lacklustre script, he brings a certain depth to his character. Nevertheless, due to the poorly written character, his performance remains somewhat one-dimensional.
Saw X distinguishes itself from its predecessors by changing the formula of constant police investigations and gruesome traps. While this departure from the norm is intriguing, it adversely affects the pacing and thrill of the movie, leaving it feeling somewhat disjointed.
One notable aspect that hinders the overall experience is the mean-spirited tone and unproportional punishment surrounding each trap and its outcomes. While it may be challenging to feel sympathy for the characters caught in these traps, who are profiting from cancer patients, the film's approach detracts from the overall viewing experience.
In conclusion, Saw X attempts to bring a fresh perspective to the Saw series by delving into John Kramer's character and motivations. However, in doing so, it departs from the core themes that made earlier films in the franchise engaging.
Despite Tobin Bell's commendable efforts, the movie's one-dimensional script and deviation from the usual narrative approach result in a lacklustre instalment that struggles to live up to the legacy of the Saw series. Fans of the franchise may find themselves longing for the complexity and moral dilemmas that have defined previous entries.
Saw X was released in NZ cinemas on September 29, 2023