Figuring out how to watch the Saw movies can feel like navigating one of Jigsaw’s own intricate traps, with the interconnected storylines, flashbacks, and prequels blurring the lines of chronological order. The optimal viewing experience hinges on understanding the two primary approaches: chronological order, which follows the events as they occur within the Saw universe, or release order, which respects the order in which the films were presented to audiences, preserving intended twists and reveals. This guide will dissect both options, offering expert insight into maximizing your Saw experience.
Choosing Your Path: Chronological vs. Release Order
The debate between chronological and release order is a perennial one for any long-running franchise with intricate timelines. Saw is no exception.
Watching in Chronological Order: A Journey Through Time
This method prioritizes understanding the overarching narrative, piecing together Jigsaw’s origins and the motivations behind his deadly game. It sacrifices some surprise in favor of clarity. The chronological order is as follows:
- Jigsaw (2017): While released later, the events of Jigsaw largely occur before the original Saw, exploring a potential copycat killer years prior to John Kramer’s established reign.
- Saw IV (2007) (Flashbacks): Certain flashback sequences in Saw IV delve into John Kramer’s early life and relationship with Jill Tuck.
- Saw V (2008) (Flashbacks): Similar to Saw IV, Saw V continues to weave in flashbacks to further flesh out John Kramer’s backstory and the genesis of his philosophies.
- Saw VI (2009) (Flashbacks): This film builds upon the previous installments, offering deeper insights into Kramer’s motivations and his struggle with cancer.
- Saw I (2004): The film that started it all, introducing John Kramer and his first victims.
- Saw II (2005): Detective Eric Matthews finds himself in a deadly game with John Kramer.
- Saw III (2006): This film focuses on Jeff Denlon as he navigates a series of traps designed to test his forgiveness.
- Saw IV (2007) (Main Story): The main narrative unfolds alongside the flashbacks, continuing the story after Saw III.
- Saw V (2008) (Main Story): Agent Strahm investigates the surviving accomplices of Jigsaw.
- Saw VI (2009) (Main Story): John Kramer targets an insurance executive who denied him coverage for cancer treatment.
- Saw 3D (Saw VII) (2010): Bobby Dagen, a Jigsaw survivor, becomes the subject of a new game.
- Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021): A standalone story set in the Saw universe, focusing on a copycat killer targeting police officers. While it exists in the established timeline, its connection to the main narrative is tangential.
- Saw X (2023): Set between Saw I and Saw II, this film showcases John Kramer seeking experimental treatment for his cancer and confronting those who scammed him.
Watching in Release Order: Preserving the Mystery
Opting for release order allows you to experience the story as it unfolded for audiences, preserving the intended impact of plot twists and character reveals. This approach emphasizes the narrative’s evolution over time.
- Saw (2004)
- Saw II (2005)
- Saw III (2006)
- Saw IV (2007)
- Saw V (2008)
- Saw VI (2009)
- Saw 3D (Saw VII) (2010)
- Jigsaw (2017)
- Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)
- Saw X (2023)
Choosing release order means experiencing the reveals of John Kramer’s apprentices and collaborators as they were originally intended. This can lead to a more thrilling, albeit potentially confusing, initial viewing.
FAQs: Untangling the Saw Timeline
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities of watching the Saw franchise:
1. Is it really necessary to watch all the Saw movies?
While not strictly necessary for a casual viewing, understanding the full scope of the Saw universe requires watching the majority of the films. Each sequel expands upon the mythology, providing context and depth to recurring characters and themes. Skipping films can leave you with unanswered questions and a fragmented understanding of the overarching narrative.
2. Does Spiral fit into the main Saw timeline?
Spiral: From the Book of Saw exists within the same universe but functions largely as a standalone story. While it contains references to the Jigsaw legacy, it primarily focuses on a new killer with a distinct modus operandi. Its connection to the core characters and plot threads is minimal.
3. Why is Jigsaw placed so late in the release order but so early in the chronological order?
Jigsaw was released years after the initial run of Saw films but contains flashbacks and events that occur significantly earlier in the timeline. This deliberate placement was intended as a soft reboot, re-introducing the Jigsaw concept to a new audience while also providing backstory that enriches the existing canon.
4. Are there any post-credit scenes in the Saw movies?
Some of the Saw movies feature subtle hints or cliffhangers during the end credits, but none contain formal, explicitly revelatory post-credit scenes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe style. Pay close attention to the ending sequences, as they often provide clues to future installments.
5. Which Saw movie is the goriest?
The level of gore is subjective, but Saw III is often cited as the most graphically violent installment. Its elaborate and punishing traps push the boundaries of on-screen horror, contributing to its notoriety.
6. Which Saw movie is the best?
The “best” Saw movie is a matter of personal preference. Saw I is praised for its originality and suspense, Saw II for its complex trap designs, and Saw VI for its social commentary. Each film offers unique strengths that appeal to different aspects of the horror genre.
7. Who are all of Jigsaw’s apprentices?
John Kramer had several apprentices throughout the series, including Amanda Young, Mark Hoffman, and Lawrence Gordon. Each apprentice contributed to Jigsaw’s legacy in different ways, adapting and evolving his methods.
8. Is John Kramer really dead?
Yes, John Kramer dies in Saw III. However, his presence continues to be felt throughout the subsequent films through flashbacks, pre-recorded messages, and the actions of his apprentices. He remains a central figure despite his physical absence.
9. What is the significance of the Billy puppet?
The Billy puppet is a recurring symbol of Jigsaw’s games. He is often used to deliver messages and instructions to the victims, serving as a disturbing harbinger of the trials to come. The puppet has become an iconic image associated with the Saw franchise.
10. Is it okay to skip Saw 3D?
While Saw 3D (also known as Saw VII) is generally considered one of the weaker installments, it does resolve certain plot threads and provides closure for some characters. Skipping it will leave gaps in your understanding of the overarching narrative, especially regarding Hoffman’s fate.
11. Where can I watch the Saw movies legally?
The Saw movies are available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, and Vudu. They can also be found on streaming services that offer them as part of their subscription libraries, such as Hulu or Peacock. Check your local listings for availability.
12. Will there be more Saw movies after Saw X?
The success of Saw X has certainly reignited interest in the franchise. While no official announcements have been made regarding future installments as of this writing, the film’s positive reception makes the possibility of further Saw movies highly likely. The ending of Saw X hints at continuing storylines.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Game
Ultimately, the best way to watch the Saw movies depends on your individual preferences. Whether you choose to unravel the timeline in chronological order or experience the story as it was originally presented, remember to embrace the suspense, the twists, and the philosophical underpinnings of Jigsaw’s twisted game. Enjoy the ride, and remember: the choice is yours.