The Saw franchise is one of the most iconic horror series in film history, known for its brutal traps, psychological twists, and the mastermind villain, Jigsaw. With a unique combination of gore, mystery, and moral dilemmas, the Saw movies have garnered a massive fan base and inspired a new wave of horror. In this blog, we’ll take you through the Saw movies in order, offering an overview of each film, its contribution to the franchise, and why it’s a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.
1. Saw (2004)
Description: The original film that introduced Jigsaw’s twisted games to the world.
Overview and Features
Directed by James Wan, "Saw" is a low-budget horror masterpiece that takes place in a grimy bathroom where two men, Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Cary Elwes) and Adam (Leigh Whannell), wake up chained to pipes. They discover they are pawns in a deadly game set by the mysterious Jigsaw, who forces them to solve puzzles or face horrifying consequences. As the clock ticks, they must follow Jigsaw’s rules to survive, while a detective (Danny Glover) hunts down the killer.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The original "Saw" is a taut psychological thriller that keeps audiences on edge with its claustrophobic setting, tense atmosphere, and shocking twist ending. The film’s innovative approach to horror, focusing more on the psychology of survival rather than just gore, made it an instant hit and laid the foundation for one of the most successful horror franchises.
Unique Description: The original twisted game that launched the iconic horror franchise.
IMDb Score: 7.6
2. Saw II (2005)
Description: Jigsaw returns with more deadly traps and twisted moral dilemmas.
Overview and Features
Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, "Saw II" expands on the premise of the first film, this time trapping a group of people in a house rigged with deadly traps. The story follows Detective Eric Matthews (Donnie Wahlberg), whose son is among the captives. As the group struggles to survive, Matthews confronts Jigsaw (Tobin Bell), who gives him a moral test of his own. The film introduces Amanda (Shawnee Smith), a survivor from the first movie, who plays a key role in Jigsaw’s games.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw II" raises the stakes with more elaborate traps and explores Jigsaw’s twisted philosophy of forcing his victims to appreciate life. The dynamic between Jigsaw and Detective Matthews adds an intriguing psychological layer to the film. The sequel also sets up important story arcs that carry through the rest of the franchise, including Jigsaw’s apprentices.
Unique Description: A deadly game with more victims, bigger traps, and moral lessons.
IMDb Score: 6.6
3. Saw III (2006)
Description: The game becomes personal as Jigsaw and Amanda’s twisted relationship is revealed.
Overview and Features
Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, "Saw III" continues the story of Jigsaw and his protégé Amanda. As Jigsaw’s health deteriorates, he kidnaps a doctor named Lynn (Bahar Soomekh) to keep him alive while orchestrating one final game. Meanwhile, Jeff (Angus Macfadyen), a grieving father, must navigate a series of brutal traps to confront the people responsible for his son’s death. As the game unfolds, Amanda’s loyalty to Jigsaw is tested in shocking ways.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw III" delves deeper into the psychological dynamics between Jigsaw and Amanda, adding emotional depth to the horror. The traps are more gruesome and personal, reflecting the characters' emotional struggles. The film’s ending delivers a gut-wrenching twist, solidifying its place as one of the most intense entries in the series.
Unique Description: Emotional depth and shocking twists in Jigsaw’s deadliest game yet.
IMDb Score: 6.2
4. Saw IV (2007)
Description: Jigsaw may be dead, but his deadly games continue.
Overview and Features
Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, "Saw IV" picks up immediately after the events of Saw III. Though Jigsaw is dead, his traps continue to unfold, orchestrated by his mysterious accomplice. The film follows Detective Rigg (Lyriq Bent) as he is forced into a deadly game, learning the value of letting go of control. Meanwhile, a group of FBI agents and detectives race to stop the new wave of traps and uncover Jigsaw’s final apprentice.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw IV" marks the beginning of the more complex timelines and flashbacks that the franchise becomes known for. The film expands on Jigsaw’s backstory, revealing more about his motivations and the origins of his philosophy. The interwoven narratives and intense traps keep the audience guessing until the very end.
Unique Description: Jigsaw’s legacy continues with new traps and shocking revelations.
IMDb Score: 5.9
5. Saw V (2008)
Description: A new apprentice is revealed as the deadly games escalate.
Overview and Features
Directed by David Hackl, "Saw V" follows FBI Agent Strahm (Scott Patterson) as he investigates the new Jigsaw apprentice, Detective Hoffman (Costas Mandylor), who has taken over Jigsaw’s deadly legacy. Meanwhile, a group of five people find themselves trapped in a series of brutal games that test their ability to work together. The film focuses on Hoffman’s manipulation of the investigation while continuing Jigsaw’s deadly philosophy.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw V" adds new layers to the franchise by revealing more about Hoffman’s involvement in Jigsaw’s games. The film’s traps force the victims to cooperate, adding a fresh dynamic to the usual formula of individual survival. As the investigation deepens, the cat-and-mouse game between Hoffman and Strahm intensifies, leading to a suspenseful conclusion.
Unique Description: Jigsaw’s apprentice takes control, revealing deadly new traps.
IMDb Score: 5.8
6. Saw VI (2009)
Description: Jigsaw’s traps take on the healthcare system in a timely twist.
Overview and Features
Directed by Kevin Greutert, "Saw VI" focuses on William Easton (Peter Outerbridge), a health insurance executive who is forced to endure a series of tests designed to make him confront the consequences of his company’s unethical practices. Meanwhile, Hoffman’s identity as Jigsaw’s apprentice is uncovered by the FBI, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw VI" returns to the franchise’s roots with a focus on moral dilemmas and socially relevant themes. The film’s critique of the healthcare industry adds depth to the gruesome traps, making it one of the most thought-provoking entries in the series. Hoffman’s arc as Jigsaw’s apprentice reaches new heights, setting up the next chapter in the saga.
Unique Description: Jigsaw’s traps target corporate greed in a socially relevant twist.
IMDb Score: 6.0
7. Saw 3D (2010)
Description: The final chapter brings Jigsaw’s game to a brutal conclusion.
Overview and Features
Directed by Kevin Greutert, "Saw 3D" (also known as Saw: The Final Chapter) is intended to be the final installment of the original series. The film follows Bobby Dagen (Sean Patrick Flanery), a self-help guru who claims to have survived one of Jigsaw’s traps. However, Bobby’s lies catch up with him when he becomes the subject of a new game designed to test his truthfulness. Meanwhile, Hoffman seeks revenge against Jigsaw’s widow, Jill, in a bloody final showdown.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Saw 3D" ties up many loose ends in the franchise, bringing Jigsaw’s deadly games to a conclusion. The film features some of the most elaborate traps in the series and uses 3D effects to heighten the gore. Fans of the series will appreciate the callbacks to earlier films and the satisfying resolution to Hoffman’s arc.
Unique Description: The brutal final chapter with elaborate traps and shocking twists.
IMDb Score: 5.5
8. Jigsaw (2017)
Description: A decade after Jigsaw’s death, a new game begins.
Overview and Features
Directed by Michael and Peter Spierig, "Jigsaw" is set ten years after Jigsaw’s death, yet new victims are found in traps that resemble his work. The film follows a group of detectives as they investigate whether Jigsaw has returned from the grave or if a new copycat killer is continuing his legacy. As the victims navigate their deadly tests, the truth behind the game’s mastermind is slowly revealed.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Jigsaw" revitalizes the franchise with a fresh mystery and new twists. The film pays homage to the original series while introducing new elements, keeping longtime fans engaged. The return of Jigsaw’s signature traps and moral lessons makes it a satisfying continuation of the franchise.
Unique Description: A new game begins, raising questions about Jigsaw’s legacy.
IMDb Score: 5.8
9. Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)
Description: A new chapter in the Saw franchise with a focus on justice and corruption.
Overview and Features
Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, "Spiral: From the Book of Saw" follows Detective Zeke Banks (Chris Rock) as he investigates a series of murders reminiscent of Jigsaw’s traps. Alongside his rookie partner (Max Minghella), Zeke uncovers a conspiracy within the police department, while facing off against a new killer inspired by Jigsaw’s legacy.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Spiral" offers a fresh take on the Saw franchise, with Chris Rock bringing a unique energy to the film. The focus on police corruption and the justice system adds a new layer to the series’ moral themes. While the film introduces new characters and concepts, it retains the classic Saw elements of deadly traps and twisted games.
Unique Description: A fresh chapter with Chris Rock hunting a Jigsaw copycat.
IMDb Score: 5.3
FAQs
1. What is the best order to watch the Saw movies?
The best order to watch the Saw movies is in release order, starting with Saw (2004) and following the subsequent sequels, ending with Spiral.
2. Who is the main villain in the Saw franchise?
The main villain in the Saw franchise is John Kramer, also known as Jigsaw, who orchestrates deadly games to teach his victims the value of life.
3. Which Saw movie introduces Jigsaw’s apprentices?
"Saw II" introduces Amanda as Jigsaw’s first apprentice, while later films reveal Detective Hoffman as another key apprentice.
4. What is the most gruesome trap in the Saw franchise?
Each Saw film features various intense traps, but the "Reverse Bear Trap" from the original Saw is often cited as one of the most iconic and gruesome.
5. Is Jigsaw still alive in the later Saw movies?
Jigsaw dies in Saw III, but his legacy continues through apprentices who carry on his twisted games in subsequent films.
The Saw franchise has become a staple of modern horror, known for its inventive traps, complex storytelling, and shocking twists. Watching the Saw movies in order allows you to fully appreciate the intricate narrative that ties all the films together, from Jigsaw’s origins to the deadly legacy he leaves behind. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, the films deliver a blend of psychological horror and gruesome thrills that have made them iconic in the genre.
