A harrowing return to the twisted world of Saw

Nearly 20 years ago Saw kicked off a franchise that has spawned 10 films (so far). Saw X marks the return of the iconic horror franchise with a fresh approach that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Chasing a promising procedure that would allegedly cure his cancer, John Kramer heads towards Mexico to go through an experimental treatment, only to find out he was prey for a scam. Now, the scammers become the prey on Jigsaw's new game.

The film follows the story of the detective who is haunted by the events of previous Saw films. He finds himself thrust back into the world of Jigsaw when a new string of brutal murders begins. As the bodies pile up, the detective realizes that he must confront his own dark past to bring the killer to justice.

The most disturbing instalment of the Saw franchise yet explores the untold chapter of Jigsaw's most personal game. Set between the events of Saw I and II, a sick and desperate John travels to Mexico for the risky medical procedure in hopes of a miracle - only to discover this was a hoax to defraud the most vulnerable.

Armed with a newfound purpose, the infamous serial killer returns to his work, turning the tables on the con artists in his signature visceral way through devious, deranged, and ingenious traps.

Where Saw X truly shines is in its ability to balance intense gore and suspense. The film effectively creates an atmosphere of dread and tension, playing with the audience's expectations throughout. The traps are cleverly designed and have an eerie connection to the characters involved, adding an extra layer of psychological torment.

The performances in Saw X are solid overall. Tobin Bell plays the lead part and provides a believable portrayal of a tormented man determined to put an end to horror. The supporting cast also shines, with some standout performances adding depth to the narrative.

One of the drawbacks of Saw X is its reliance on the franchise's mythology. While fans of the series will appreciate the nods to previous films and the development of the story arc, newcomers might find themselves feeling somewhat lost. The plot can be convoluted at times, requiring prior knowledge of the franchise to fully appreciate the intricate connections between characters and events.

Overall, Saw X is a gruesome, heart-pounding addition to the franchise that offers fans a thrilling return to the Jigsaw's disturbing world. While it may not be the most accessible instalment for newcomers, it successfully delivers on the expectations of its die-hard fanbase. If you're a fan of the Saw series and crave more sinister mind games, this movie is a must-watch.

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