Saw

USA 2004, 103 minutes
Dir. James Wan
Rating: [R18]
Genres: Horror / Serial Killers

Feat. Cary Elwes, Leigh Whannell, Danny Glover, Monica Potter, Tobin Bell

Aroview: Acclaimed by many for its inventive serial-killer premise and sadistic delivery, this opens with Elwes and Whannell chained in a locked bathroom with instructions for one to kill the other, "or else!" Unfortunately, to do this they must first saw off their own feet...

This horrific situation is the creative work of The Jigsaw Killer, a nameless controller (until the finale) who seems intent on moralistically reminding his victims of the value of life (!), though detectives are hot on his trail. Deliriously macabre, this revives something of the claustrophobia of Roger Corman's Poe adaptations, with 21st century violence and technology. Though somewhat crude at times, it's recommended for all with strong stomachs.

Member Reviews

Average rating (Good Enough). Showing 1-3 of 3 member reviews.

I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
4 stars (Very Good) An almost-unique premise, low-budget Australian film which shot to success largely because of its gory and sadistic (yet ingenious) human traps, and partly because of Tobin Bell's raspy instructions as Jigsaw. Oh yes, there will be blood. ~Tom H
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
2 stars (Good Try) Though initially gripping, the plot's ludicrous knots are ultimately grating. Shame the script wasn't a draft sharper because the low budget is very well-used. Performances range from decent (Whannell, Bell) to hammy (Elwes) to embarrassing (Glover) ~fairbrother
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
2 stars (Good Try) The filmmakers wanted to make a low budget film and in this, they succeeded but the screenplay fails to hold the attention. ~Tubbs