MovieChat Forums > Saw (2004) Discussion > The first film was good enough...

The first film was good enough...


I remember when this movie first came out in theaters back in 04. Being at a young age, at the time, I thought this was one of the greatest horror films ever. But looking back now and after watching it again, I wouldn't go so far to label it as 'the greatest', but it's certainly still an enjoyable movie. As a horror-thriller, I'd say it's really effective. Better than pretty much all of the horror films being released nowadays. I thought the first film was good enough. I sorta-kinda enjoyed the sequel. I'm amazed by how far this simple idea was expanded into an entire franchise. I didn't care for any of the other continuations. Even though I sort of enjoyed the sequel, I think they should've stopped at the first film. But then again, looking at this from the filmmaker's point of view, I don't blame them for utilizing the franchise for all it was worth.

I could pick apart the unrealistic and far fetched factors in the film...but I'd rather not overthink it. Of course, if you look at it from a realistic perspective, the plot is quite ridiculous and over the top. But I still enjoyed it. One thing that I couldn't help but notice, were the two leading roles of Leigh Whannel and Gary Ewles. Did anyone else notice their true accents seeping through their fake American ones. Leigh is Australian and Ewles is British. The more I listened to them talk, the more I could recognize their true accents. But their acting performances were so good, that I could easily disregard those details. That's one thing I have to give credit to, regarding the leading actors...they delivered a solid performance. Their acting is what made this movie memorable. And even Danny Glover did a good job. I really like how the filmmakers managed to start from nothing, only to make a spectacular horror film, with such a simple concept.

That ending scene where Dr. Gordon cuts off his own foot is still intense and disturbing to watch. Regardless what you may think about the overall movie, that scene alone is undeniably messed up. Altogether, the ending was a real shocker. Saw will always be, in my opinion, a classic early 2000's horror film. But like I said, I think all the rest of the films are quite forgettable.

reply

I haven't seen the sequels and most likely never will. I consider the first a well-done standalone film and the rest a money grab

reply

Yep, pretty much.

reply

for me personally I wouldnt call it a "Horror" film...

for me, This is a "serial Killer" thriller film(no doubt with horror/scary elements)

so I wouldnt call it one of the greatest Horror films ever....

But for me, I do consider it one of the greatest Serial Killer/Thriller movies ever, and While I do not believe its on the level of a film like Se7en, which I believe Is Just a much Better overall film, but The reason for me Saw is in my Top Serial Killers/Thrillers movies is SOLELY because of the Ending.

I have Always loved movies with Twist Endings or Plot Twists...and for me, Saw's Ending/Twist is the most shocked/stunned I've ever been by a Movies "Twist"

I know Its not considered by The Majority to be the greatest Twist ending of all time or anything, But Just for me, I do not remember any movies Twist hitting me the way This Films Twist hit me...my first viewing of this film will always be in absolutely favorite "Movie experiences'

I remember Just wanting to watch this movie with other people so I could be there with them and see their reaction when the Twist came.

So overall, for me, I do consider Saw one of the greatest Serial Killer movies because It had one of, if not IMO the greatest Twist endings of all time.

PS

I also LOVED Saw II and feel its Ending is Extremely underrated as it had 3 PLOT twsts, All of which were incredibly well done(my favorite being Danny was in the safe the whole time, Johns Words at the start of the film to Matthews are haunting once you see Danny was in the safe, just like John said "If you can sit and talk with me long enough, you will find your son in a safe and secure state")

the rest of the saw films IMO were not even close to the same level, decent, had some decent stories and plot twists, But no where near 1 and 2

reply

Saw 2 and 3 are worth watching IMO. Then the new writers came and screwed everything up by making the plot too convoluted by adding many retcons and adding uninteresting characters. A further annoyance was having the characters explaining everything to the audience which was especially prominent in the 4th film.

reply

Definitely a case of the sequels sullying the memory of the original. As you say, it's a classic - very original and of it's time.

reply