This movie is a slap in the face...

Rating: Null/10 (28 October 2004)

I had the chance to view SAW last night at a sneak review presented by a local "hip-hop" station and a local "alternative newspaper." I was hyped to see this film because it seemed to be something original. I could not have been more wrong. Take Se7en, add the Usual Suspects, toss in one fubar way to die, add some cheesy camera work, bad lighting, and a touch of comedy and you have SAW. That this movie is something original is laughable. That this movie is scary is hilarious. The film drags at the beginning, hits a high note with the Jawtrap, and then falls flat for the rest of the film.
I read the article in Script Magazine that Leigh Whannel penned...he wrote about using flashbacks to tell the story. And even had the gall to hope that this film was on the same level as MEMENTO! Memento was a film that remained one step ahead of the viewer. Memento, as did the Usual Suspects, kept the viewer on edge until the end where all was revealed. SAW, on the other hand, laid everything out on the table. Nothing was left to doubt. There was no astonishment at the film's final scene.
These two cats from down under hope to take everyone for a ride...perhaps optimistic about SAW's chances at the box office given the grudge's take last week and that SAW is opening on Halloween weekend. This film is not for the intelligent...for you will have the entire story figured out before you finish your popcorn and drink. This film is aimed at the typical movie goer - someone that suspends all disbelief and immediately forgets the aspect of any film they have ever seen once the credits roll.
Jason Wan wasted his money on film school. He should have bought a camera and just started making movies. Shoot, edit, re-edit. Learn by doing. Film school is a waste of time and it didn't do this movie any good.
Leigh Wannell did a number on whoever approved this script. It's one thing to watch movies like Se7en and The Usual Suspects and then think "I can do that." It's totally another to actually do it. You have to watch them over and over again and then read the scripts. And then re-read the scripts. You have to pick up on how the stories were told and then realize that is has already been done. The killer is preaching!!!! Se7en did it. The killer selects people to serve as examples of the his message!!!! Se7en did it. The clip montage at the end that's supposed to bring the film altogether!!!! The Usual Suspects did it.
Turning the film into Hawaii Five-O meets Hannibal Lector and they go to eat breakfast with The Manson Family....come on!
This movie insulted my intelligence and almost bored me into a coma.
I am saddened by the movie watchers that were scared, flabbergasted, and even cheering during the final moments.
Of course, the filmmakers are delighted by these people as they are the ones that will be filling in the seats this weekend.
My hope is that the drop-off for the second week's take is similar to the percentage drop-off comparable to the hulk or catwoman. Word of mouth broke those films and I can only hope it does the same to this one. Yes, SAW is bad enough to be included with these two duds.
There is nothing scary, frightening, surprising, or even puzzling about SAW. If you can make toast than you are too smart for this film. And if you need the film explained to you than you are the target audience.