Too many flaws plague this thriller

Rating: 3/10 (29 October 2004)

I went into SAW with high hopes, and while it was very interesting for most of the way through, in the end, the writing ruined it. (Spoilers) The real flaw is that the characters actions didn't shape the story, the story shaped their actions. We are given no reason why the real killer was doing this. Since his victims almost never live, whats with the "Phone Booth" life lessons? Also the decoy killer, Zap, was too sadistic in his actions to be someone who reluctantly is doing all this to save his life. All the acting was poor as well, i don't think of Cary Elwes as a bad actor by any means, but he really wasn't good at all. Not that most people consider this in this type of movie, but serial killers don't play games with victims or cops. The whole shock value aspect in these movies can really only go so far, before it all feels like deja vu. If you're looking for a good killer thriller, seven and silence of the lambs are much better movies on all levels, acting, directing, scripts, use of cinematography etc. While its by no means a horrible movie, at a minimum 5 or 6 dollars, you can save a couple a rent something much better and worth your time.