10 Horror Movie Sequels Nobody Wanted…. But Everyone Loved
4. Saw X
The Saw series began on a relatively high note, kickstarting the careers of creative duo James Wan and Leigh Whannell as a bold blending of Fincher-esque gritty thriller and stomach-churning sadomasochistic carnage.
Although the franchise’s yearly releases remained largely profitable, moviegoers gradually got tired of being subjected to the trademark “torture porn” gore and convoluted continuity. It was finally put to bed with 2010’s Saw: The Final Chapter, only to be fruitlessly revived twice with 2017’s Jigsaw and 2021’s Spiral: From the Book of Saw.
Shortly thereafter, news spread of another seemingly desperate upcoming resurrection attempt: Saw X (which would take place between Saw II and Saw III, with Tobin Bell returning as John “Jigsaw” Kramer).
As the saying goes – and to a degree few could’ve anticipated – the third time was the charm, with Saw X being the highest-grossing chapter since Saw 3D. It’s currently the most positively received Saw film on Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic as well, with the majority opinion being that it’s nearly as commendable as what Wan and Whannell accomplished.
With its streamlined and relatable storytelling injecting energy and pathos into Kramer’s actions and philosophy, it’s no wonder why Saw X was such an unforeseeable treat.