My quick rating - 7.2/10. I was really hoping to check this one out during #Shocktober and quite a fitting end to this month. In a genre often plagued by formulaic narratives, number 10 emerges as a dark, inventive gem, breathing new life into the franchise. Set between the extraordinary events of Saw and Saw II, this installment delves deep into the twisted psyche of the infamous John Kramer (Tobin Bell). Faced with a terminal illness, Kramer's journey takes an unexpected turn when he embarks on a desperate quest for a cure in the depths of Mexico. What follows is a rollercoaster ride through a nightmarish labyrinth of deception, desperation, and, of course, diabolical traps. The brilliance lies in its smart and calculated storytelling. The narrative not only bridges the gap between its predecessors but also manages to carve out a compelling storyline of its own. The audience is taken on a relentless journey, exploring the darkest corners of Kramer's mind as he battles his mortality. The film masterfully captures his transformation from a vulnerable patient to the ruthless, calculating serial killer fans have come to fear and admire. How director Kevin Greutert and writers Pete Goldfinger & Josh Stolberg are able to manipulate your emotions in such a way to have you actually rooting for Kramer throughout the ordeal is an accomplishment in itself. Bringing in Amanda (Shawnee Smith) to aid in his revenge plot helped bring the storylines together from the original two flix as well. Her character was well fleshed out to capture the confusing mix of emotions that you would expect to cloud her mind. This is while appreciating the standout qualities of its creative ingenuity, particularly in its kills. The traps devised by Kramer are not only visually striking but also incredibly inventive, showcasing a level of sadistic creativity that has become synonymous with the franchise. Each trap serves as a visceral reminder of the moral quandaries the characters face, adding layers of depth to the horror. What truly elevates this flick against previous sequels is its ability to bring the story back to the forefront. The writing is sharp, delivering an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. It doesn't rely solely on shock value; instead, it weaves a complex web of psychological suspense, forcing you to confront uncomfortable questions about morality and justice. I thought this was a triumphant return to form for the franchise. It cleverly revitalizes the legacy of Jigsaw while introducing fresh elements that keep the story compelling. With its smart writing, creative kills, and a chilling exploration of the human psyche, Saw X stands tall as a testament to the enduring appeal of the series, reminding audiences why they were captivated by Jigsaw's sinister games in the first place.
