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Saw

Saw is an American horror film franchise centred on the serial killer Jigsaw, whose victims are forced into deadly tests.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Saw is an American horror film franchise centred on the serial killer Jigsaw, whose victims are forced into deadly tests. The franchise began with the 2004 film Saw and has expanded into ten feature films released through Saw X (2023). It is known for its trap-based plot device, graphic violence, and recurring continuity across the series.

Overview

Saw is a long-running horror franchise built around elaborate traps, moral tests, and a recurring continuity involving John Kramer. The series began in 2004 and became one of the best-known modern horror franchises.

Films

The franchise includes Saw (2004), Saw II (2005), Saw III (2006), Saw IV (2007), Saw V (2008), Saw VI (2009), Saw 3D (2010), Jigsaw (2017), Spiral (2021), and Saw X (2023).

Characters

Jigsaw is the nickname of John Kramer, the franchise’s main killer and mastermind. He designs deadly games that force victims to make extreme choices to survive.

Creation and production

The franchise was created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell, who helped launch it with the original 2004 film. Lionsgate distributes the films, and Twisted Pictures is the main production company.

Key facts

  • The franchise has 10 feature films released from 2004 to 2023.
  • The original Saw was created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell.
  • John Kramer, also known as Jigsaw, is the central antagonist of the series.
  • The series is distributed by Lionsgate and produced by Twisted Pictures.
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Canadian context

The franchise has Canadian relevance through its broad North American distribution and fanbase, but it is primarily an American film series. No strong Canada-specific origin or setting is established in the supplied sources.

Frequently asked questions

How many Saw movies are there?
There are 10 Saw feature films, from Saw (2004) to Saw X (2023).
Who created the Saw franchise?
The Saw franchise was created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell.
Who is Jigsaw in Saw?
Jigsaw is John Kramer, the franchise’s main antagonist, who forces victims into deadly tests.
What is the order of Saw movies?
Release order is: Saw, Saw II, Saw III, Saw IV, Saw V, Saw VI, Saw 3D, Jigsaw, Spiral, and Saw X.
Is Saw based on a true story?
No. Saw is a fictional horror franchise, not a true-story adaptation.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saw_(franchise)
    Supports: Film list and general franchise details including release order through Saw X.
  2. IGN — https://www.ign.com/articles/saw-movies-in-order
    Supports: Total number of films, creator names, and theatrical release order.
  3. Dexerto — https://www.dexerto.com/tv-movies/how-many-saw-movies-are-there-2183042/
    Supports: Total number of Saw films and release order through Saw X.
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/saw-movies-in-order/
    Supports: Chronological and release-order listing of the Saw films.