Saw X Movie Review: Tobin Bell effortlessly steals the show in this survivalist gory flick

Tobin Bell as the ruthless, vindictive but conscientious John Kramer returns seeking vengeance and poetic justice. Saw X in its latest instalment relies on gore but is heavily leaning on an emotional sub-plot too. However, it is Tobin Bell who once again emerges as the show stealer in this one which also has its own share of misses. 

The plot revolves around John Kramer (Tobin Bell) subjecting a group of fraudulent con artists to his signature death traps as Jigsaw. This is after they cheat him into believing that they have a miraculous cure for his terminal cancer. He is aided by his confidante Amanda Young (Shawnee Smith). 

Also Read: 'Track Down These Scammers': Jigsaw's new mission in upcoming horror film Saw X 

Director Kevin Greutert retains the gore, torture, blood and flesh in the 10th installment of the movie keeping its essence intact. However, what stands out in Saw X is the characterization of the protagonists. The equation between Kramer and Amanda is humanizing and almost develops a sense of empathy for them despite their brutal methods. The theme of morality and vengeance runs high with the victims of Jigsaw having to own up to their unscrupulous deeds. However, the movie falls prey to a predictable plotline and subsequent climax. There's hardly any surprise elements over there as one can predict the events leading to the conclusion which had a lot of scope for some thrill and anticipation. 

Also Read: 'Armed with a newfound purpose!' Tobin Bell returns as Jigsaw in Saw X, arriving earlier than expected 

The performances are definitely one of the highlights of Saw X. At 81, Tobin Bell is inevitably the soul of this one once again. Even with his ruthlessness, you see a man who has accepted his fate but wants his work to have a sense of morality. He is vindictive but also emphathetic to the feelings of his ally. His treatment towards his victims have a distinct bifurcation of black and white. Bell once again proves why he embodies Jigsaw perfectly. The other two perfomers who stand out are Shawnee Smith and Synnove Macody Lund. Shawnee brings a vulnerability to her performance which makes her endearing while you cannot help but loathe Synnove's portayal of Cecilia proving how convincing she was. Renata Vaca, Paulette Hernandez, Octavio Hinojosa and Steven Brand also do full justice to their characters. 

The cinematography by Nick Matthews is intense and slick enhancing the gory and gruesome sequences. Saw X might not be the best amongst the franchise but it sure has its strong moments. Its nevertheless not to be missed by all the Saw fans out there.