The Return of Jigsaw: Tobin Bell Takes Center Stage in Saw X
The horror genre is in a golden age, and the Saw franchise is no exception. The latest installment, Saw X, has been hailed as the best in the series, but let’s not forget the real gem here—Saw II. Tobin Bell’s iconic character, Jigsaw, is back and the film is more focused on him than ever. Set between the first and second Saw movies, Saw X has certainly upped the ante.
“While it was definitely higher quality than we’ve seen from other movies (I’m looking at you Chris Rock’s bomb Spiral), I wouldn’t call it the best movie of the entire franchise,” says our in-house critic.
The Birth of a Franchise: Why Saw II Stands Out
Legendary filmmaker James Wan may have set the stage with the original Saw, but it was Saw II that truly defined the franchise. The sequel was bigger, bloodier, and had a more ambitious narrative structure.
“In my mind, that honor goes to the very first sequel, Saw II,” adds our critic.
Saw II features John Kramer, aka Jigsaw, getting caught by Detective Eric Matthews, played by Donnie Osmond. The film’s complexity comes from its dual storylines: Matthews and Kramer watching Jigsaw’s latest game unfold in a poisoned house, and the shocking revelation that Jigsaw has a protégé, Amanda Young, portrayed by Shawnee Smith.
The Iconic Traps of Saw II
The traps in Saw II are nothing short of iconic. From the needle pit to Addison’s arm-trapping blades, these moments are etched in the minds of horror fans.
“The complexity and multiple puzzles from Saw II was part of why it was such a fun moviegoing experience,” our critic notes.
And let’s not forget the star-studded cast, including Seventh Heaven’s Beverly Mitchell fighting for her life.
The Legacy and What’s Next for the Saw Franchise
Saw X may be the talk of the town, but it owes a lot to Saw II. Shawnee Smith even reprises her role as Amanda, a testament to the sequel’s lasting impact.
“You wouldn’t return to the iconography of Saw II if it wasn’t such a great chapter of the long-running franchise,” our critic emphasizes.
The credits scene in Saw X teases another familiar face, leaving fans excited for what’s next. Yet, it’s hard to imagine any sequel dethroning Saw II as the franchise’s crown jewel.
A Horror Fan’s Guide to What’s Streaming and In Theaters
For those looking to relive the glory of Saw II, it’s currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime. Meanwhile, Saw X is playing in theaters. And don’t forget to keep an eye on the 2023 movie release dates to plan your next cinematic adventure.
The Final Cut
While Saw X has been receiving accolades and attention, it’s Saw II that remains the heart and soul of the franchise. Its intricate storylines, iconic traps, and unforgettable characters make it a must-watch for any horror aficionado. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, make sure Saw II is on your watchlist. After all, it’s the chapter that truly set the stage for everything that followed.
