20 TERRIBLE Horror Movies That Were Huge Hits
16. Saw 3D
Saw 3D was hastily decided to be the final entry into the horror franchise following the commercial under-performance of Saw VI, which, despite scoring franchise-best reviews at the time, grossed a disappointing series-low of $68.2 million amid stiff competition from the burgeoning Paranormal Activity.
And though Saw 3D was widely panned by critics and fans as a lackluster conclusion to the mainline series, unaided by a visually hideous 3D gimmick, the combination of dubious "The Final Chapter" branding and a 3D uplift allowed Saw 3D to become a genuine financial juggernaut.
On a budget of $17 million, Saw 3D made $136.2 million, almost doubling Saw VI's gross and ultimately making it the highest-grossing of the Saw movies since Saw IV.
Considering how many past-their-prime horror franchises end up sputtering to a lackluster commercial finish, it's truly impressive that Saw managed to put out such strong numbers in its seventh - yet ultimately not final - installment.