With the Fall season underway, it is about time to begin an array of traditions. For years when October rolled around, moviegoers were treated to a certain film franchise about crimes, eerie dolls and bloody deathtraps. I speak of course of the famed franchise known as Saw. The horror franchise started by James Wan has become an iconic series for the horror genre with nine films to its name and various filmmakers contributing to its legacy. It has been a few years since the game has been played with the last outing, Spiral, though that was not the success Lionsgate was hoping for. Yet this did sway the studio from continuing their hit franchise and after a quick adjustment period the series returned once again with the tenth installment: Saw X.

Taking place between the events of Saw and Saw II, the new film deals with John Kramer (Tobin Bell) seeking a cure for his cancer in Mexico. However, after discovering the operation was faked, John decides to make those responsible the next subjects and unleashes the games of Jigsaw upon them. While several filmmakers have come along to direct Saw, taking chair this time was Kevin Greutert; who has served as the series’ editor and even directed two films in Saw VI and Saw: The Final Chapter. Along with Josh Stulberg and Peter Goldfinger returning as writers, the biggest highlight going into the movie was Tobin Bell reprising his role as the horror icon. With the series nearly two decades old and already having two films to revitalize the franchise, it is hard to imagine Saw X bringing something new to this gruesome tale. However, the preview showed some promise and since I watched every Saw film already, I figured I had to check out this new installment. So, after seeing the latest chapter in the horror series, I found myself leaving the theater in shock by the thrilling game Saw X crafted.

As stated, there have been attempts to revitalize the Saw franchise before, but the films did not have the necessary impact to bring the franchise back to life. In my opinion those films did not hit because, when it came down to it, they were more of the same and offered little to the overall franchise. Yet in the case of Saw X, the direction this installment takes was in many ways dynamic for the series. In the case of the story, Saw X followed the formula and concepts that were all too familiar to the horror franchise. However, what set this entry apart from previous past entries was the nuance in its storytelling. This direction came in the form of John’s story and how it was the focal point of the overall plot. This kind of storytelling has not been seen in the Saw series for a while and this made even the most formulaic aspects, like the story’s twists, feel refreshing again. When it came to connecting to the rest of series, the plot was a standalone story with some references to previous films; and this decision was for the best as it kept things simple and brought the series back to its roots.

Along with the keen storytelling was of course the return of Tobin Bell as John Kramer/Jigsaw. Bell has been present in many of the Saw films. However what set Kramer’s involvement in this entry apart was making him the film’s primary focus; which was a good way to see the depth behind Jigsaw. As performances go, Tobin proved to be just as formidable as he was in his first appearances as the dark character as his presence continued to be impressive. Bell was not the only returning cast member as Shawnee Smith reprised her role as Amanda. Like Bell, it was nice to see Smith return as Jigsaw’s apprentice as her role in this film was fitting for the character and it was able to expand on Amanda’s relationship with John. As for the test subjects, the group was decent in their roles with Cecilia Pederson (Synnove Macody Lund) being the most notable of these crooked game members; and despite not being the most investing of victims they were characters that felt appropriate for the horror franchise.

When it comes to horror, Saw has defined itself with its tense atmosphere and crazy gore. In the case of Saw X, the film certainly lived up to these standards. When it came to the gore, the movie was a gruesome experience, and I mean that it in a good way, as it was simplistic but grotesque; and it featured some of the most thrilling moments in the series’ history. As for the tone, the movie’s atmosphere felt appropriate as its bleak look was fitting for the franchise’s sense of style. Last and certainly not least was the music which was conducted by none other than Charlie Clouser; whose composed the entirety of Saw’s music. The music of Saw X was not the strongest aspect for the film, but it still did its job by capturing the film’s tone and of course featuring the classic theme that Saw is known for.

Where I thought this series had nothing more to offer, Saw X proved me wrong. While some of its directions could be too simplistic, the new installment showed its worth its refreshing storytelling and enjoyable leads; and when it came to its horror the film was thrilling experience thanks to its subtle but effective gore. It is hard to say whether this movie is intended to be resurgence or just an homage, and truthfully I would be ok with either result. For now I can only say that Saw X is exhilarating horror film for the season, and it passes its test by being one of the best this gruesome series has to offer.