How To Watch Saw Movies In Order?
The “Saw” movie series is a collection of horror films that look into the world of John Kramer, also known as the Jigsaw Killer and his twisted form of justice. Starting with the first film in 2004, the franchise spans over a decade, delivering a mix of psychological horror, suspense, and intricate puzzles. Jigsaw’s infamous traps test his victims’ will to survive by forcing them to make harrowing decisions. In this blog post, we list all the “Saw” movies in order of release, providing a brief overview of each film, its reception, and its contribution to the overarching narrative of the series.
All Saw Movies In Order
The “Saw” franchise is known for its intricate plots, revolving around the character John Kramer, also known as the Jigsaw Killer, who captures victims and places them in traps as a form of moral testing. Here’s a list of the “Saw” movies in order of release:
1. Saw (2004)
“Saw” introduces audiences to the twisted world of Jigsaw, a killer who compels his victims to complete deadly games to survive. Directed by James Wan, this low-budget horror film was a box office sensation, grossing over $103 million worldwide. Critics praised its innovative storyline and twist ending, though some criticized its graphic violence. “Saw” became a cult classic, renowned for reviving the horror genre with its psychological depth and shocking twists.
2. Saw II (2005)
“Saw II” escalates the Jigsaw killer’s horrifying games, trapping a group in a house filled with deadly traps. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, it grossed around $147 million globally, surpassing its predecessor. The film received mixed reviews, with critics acknowledging its cleverly designed traps and storyline continuity but critiquing its reliance on gore. Nevertheless, it solidified the Saw franchise’s place in horror cinema.
3. Saw III (2006)
Continuing the gruesome legacy, “Saw III” looks deeper into Jigsaw’s backstory while introducing more elaborate and deadly traps. Darren Lynn Bousman returned to direct, and the film grossed approximately $164 million worldwide. Critics were divided, pointing to its graphic violence and convoluted plot, yet it was praised for its emotional depth and character development, making it a polarizing yet successful entry in the series.
4. Saw IV (2007)
“Saw IV” unveils the aftermath of Jigsaw’s death, exploring his influence beyond the grave as his sadistic games continue. The film, directed again by Darren Lynn Bousman, earned about $139 million globally. Reviews were generally negative, with criticism aimed at its confusing plot and excessive gore. However, it was acknowledged for attempting to further explore its complex narrative and for its inventive traps.
5. Saw V (2008)
In “Saw V,” the legacy of Jigsaw’s games of survival tests the bonds between his surviving victims. Directed by David Hackl, it grossed over $113 million worldwide. The film faced criticism for its perceived lack of innovation and was considered by some as a low point in the series, yet it maintained a dedicated fan base intrigued by the expanding lore and intricate traps.
6. Saw VI (2009)
“Saw VI” focuses on insurance executives forced to confront their moral decisions through Jigsaw’s twisted games. Directed by Kevin Greutert, it grossed around $68 million, the lowest of the franchise at that point. Despite this, the film received more positive reviews than its immediate predecessors, with critics noting its return to the series’ thematic roots and its commentary on healthcare, making it a standout sequel.
7. Saw 3D (2010)
Also known as “Saw: The Final Chapter,” this installment aimed to conclude the saga with victims fighting to survive Jigsaw’s ultimate game. Directed by Kevin Greutert, it grossed approximately $136 million worldwide. Critics largely panned the film for its formulaic plot and over-reliance on 3D effects, though it was praised for bringing closure to the series and its creative traps.
8. Jigsaw (2017)
Reviving the franchise after a seven-year hiatus, “Jigsaw” explores a new wave of murders fitting Jigsaw’s modus operandi. Directed by Michael and Peter Spierig, the film grossed around $103 million globally. Reception was mixed, with some critics enjoying the refreshed take on the formula, while others felt it was a needless continuation, critiquing its predictability and failure to innovate beyond the original’s legacy.
9. Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)
“Spiral” attempts to take the franchise in a new direction, focusing on a detective (Chris Rock) investigating Jigsaw-copycat killings. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, it grossed about $40 million worldwide, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The film received mixed reviews, with praise for its attempt to breathe new life into the franchise and criticism for not fully living up to its potential in reinvigorating the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Saw saga about?
The Saw saga follows the twisted games and traps orchestrated by the iconic Jigsaw killer, John Kramer, who aims to make his victims appreciate life through deadly tests.
How many Saw movies are there?
There are a total of 9 Saw movies in the franchise, starting with the original Saw in 2004 and most recently Spiral in 2021.
Who is the main villain in the Saw movies?
The main villain in the Saw movies is the morally complex and philosophical Jigsaw killer, John Kramer, who crafts elaborate traps to test his victims’ will to live.
How did the Saw franchise impact the horror genre?
The Saw franchise revolutionized the horror genre by introducing a focus on psychological terror, intricate plot twists, and graphic violence, influencing a new wave of horror films.
Is there a specific order to watch the Saw movies?
To watch the Saw movies in chronological order, you can start with Jigsaw (2017) as it serves as a prequel to the original Saw (2004) and follows the early games orchestrated by John Kramer.
What is the significance of Jigsaw as a horror icon?
Jigsaw, portrayed by Tobin Bell, has become an enduring horror icon known for his chilling traps, moral teachings, and complex character development throughout the Saw franchise.
I’m Elena Finley, a writer and English Literature student with a heart full of wanderlust and words. Singing is my escape, and football is my thrill. I’m an explorer at heart, constantly seeking new horizons and experiences. My love for movies is as vast as my desire to travel, leading me to write blogs where I share my cinematic adventures. Every day is an adventure and I’m excited to see where it takes me!
