The "Saw" Series Thus Far.

To begin, I would like demolish the following myth. The Saw series began as a single film, in fact, it was originally a short film. This single production was never intended to be anything more, or at least, anything contractually obligated to be anything more than a stand alone film. However, due to its popularity, it spawned a sequel, and based on the reception of that film, it was decided that the series would continue on from there. From "Saw III" on, the writers knew there would be a total of at least six installments in the series. That is, one through six. So from the writing of "III" it was intended to be an intertwining series with connections throughout.


The myth is that the "Saw" series is comparable in terms of continuity with the likes of the "Friday the 13th" films or "Nightmare on Elm street" films. The people who believe this are those who have not seen the newer films, or those who believe themselves to be stingy horror connoisseurs that won't watch anything that isn't at least 10 years old, or from another country. Each entrant in the "Saw" series is tied both in plot, character, and theme.


In my opinion, those who choose not to watch these new films are denying themselves of probably the freshest ideas in Western horror. In fact, I would go as far to say that it is, as a collective series so far, the most consistently well produced, well written series in a long time.


This is not to say the series is not without its flaws. it is however, an engaging endeavor on many levels. With each installment, comes a fresh twist on the series. There are characters to love, and characters to hate (as with any movie or series) and enough plot twists to make each film feel like it stands out from the others.


Another highlight of the series is the effects. Each film has plenty of scenes of gore, viscera, and off the wall ideas that are, for the most part, executed (pun intended!) very well. Whether you are a casual movie goer, who is simply "grossed out" or if your knowledgeable in the aspects of effects, you will find something to appreciate.


The plot line of the series isn't just a linear story, it is more than a simple beginning, middle, and end. There are flashbacks, concurrent story arcs, character connections and revelations, and the "twist" moments to make you think twice about what you just watched.


Sometimes the plot may seem a little too "perfect," but as with a lot of films (and those of the horror genre especially) one really must suspend disbelief. Things must play out a certain way to push the plot forward. So just because you wouldn't "call that guy and do that thing," doesn't mean that CHARACTER wouldn't do it. After all it is just a story.

Another criticism the series gets is the hammy acting. In some ways I feel this is kind of a charm of the series. Reminiscent of the acting of B-movies past, (although certainly not quite that extreme) it is quite entertaining to see these characters act so ridiculously to these ridiculous situations.

It is easy to dismiss this series as a simple "American torture porn movie," but this is quite simply something else. To be blunt, the series is on it's fifth installment, and can still capture its audience. I am hoping that the sixth film will wrap the series up, and won't turn into the proverbial cash cow.


I hope people will give this series a chance, and won't simply write it off. While it is not for everyone, I hope anyone who can appreciate the genre of horror from different aspects will check it out.

The Beginning

I have decided to begin my journey on this wonderful technological frontier known as The Blog. In the future, expect to see some reviews of films, franchises, literature, and more. As well as news regarding the horror sub-culture.

I will also post pictures of my work as an artist, as well as some mini-lessons on basic make up effects.

I look forward to becoming one with the fleshy, cybernetic mass known as the internet frequenting populace.