Saw X gets rave first reactions, as critics call it "one of the best" chapters in the franchise

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"It brings back the original essence of the first film while also allowing the audience to gain deeper insight into Kramer"

Tobin Bell as John Kramer in Saw X
(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Saw X is getting rave first reactions ahead of its September 29 release date, with fans calling it "one of the best" chapters in the franchise. 

Set just two weeks after the events of James Wan's original, which came out back in 2004, the tenth outing sees John Kramer (Tobin Bell) travel to Mexico City, in a last ditch attempt to rid himself of the supposedly inoperable tumor in his brain. Turns out, though, everyone involved in the trip was a scammer – and it doesn't take long for John to discover he's still dying. 

In retaliation, he has his assistant Amanda (Shawnee Smith) kidnap the tricksters, and subjects them to some of his nastiest traps yet. And, well, as fans of the series know, not many people have screwed over John Kramer and lived to the tell the tale. Or emerged from his vengeful games with all of their limbs, at least. 

Octavio Hinojosa as Mateo in Saw X

(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Fortunately, critics seem to have had a much more enjoyable time watching the film than the characters did enduring the events of it. Seen seeing early previews of the movie, many have taken to social media to praise its gore, emotional stakes, and how it

"#SAWX is bound hands down one of the best in the franchise," Forbes' Simon Thompson said of the horror sequel on Twitter. "Putting John Kramer centre stage more than ever works brilliantly and Tobin Bell slays. Amanda’s ‘return’ is executed brilliantly and the traps are amongst some of the best, even when quite simple, plus the story is [thumbs up emoji]."

"Safe to say that I think #SawX is easily one of the best crafted films in the franchise," added Fangoria's Vannah Taylor. "Without sacrificing any of the key ingredients that make a great SAW film, this new installment delivers a more emotional story than I had anticipated…oh and it’s a bloody good time."

"#SAWX is one of the BEST additions to the franchise," echoed Nightmarish Conjurings founder Shannon McGrew. "It brings back the original essence of the first film while also allowing the audience to gain deeper insight into Kramer. Plus, the traps are *chef kiss*"

"#SawX is a glorious return to form for the series. Not only are the traps absolute perfection, but we get to see a very different side to John this time around," YouTuber Patrick Burow gushed. "It's deep, emotional, gory, it feels like OG SAW. Also, Score is INCREDIBLE!"

Check out some more reactions below...

For more on Saw X, why not have a read of our exclusive chat with director Kevin Greutert, where we dig into Amanda's comeback. Or, check out our guide to the other best new horror movies coming our way in 2023 and beyond. 

Amy West
Amy West

I am an Entertainment Writer here at GamesRadar+, covering all things TV and film across our Total Film and SFX sections. Elsewhere, my words have been published by the likes of Digital Spy, SciFiNow, PinkNews, FANDOM, Radio Times, and Total Film magazine.