The Saw series is famous for its elaborate death traps. As the original seven-film run ended in 2010, Jigsaw’s complex mechanisms designed to mutilate and maim people he deemed worthy of torment had become iconic. Despite the near-universal acclaim of Saw X in 2023, Lionsgate is not bringing back the annual death game machine, and Saw XI is set to be released in 2025. But since it’s Halloween, it’s time for Saw. Let’s take a look at the best traps in each movie. Spoilers ahead!
Many consider the Reverse Bear Trap from the first film as the best death mechanism. It represents the essence of the Jigsaw Killer’s ideology. However, the Bathroom Trap provides one of the best twists in horror film history. Two people are chained in a filthy bathroom, and Dr. Lawrence Gordon is instructed to kill the other to escape. The open-ended nature of this trap creates intense suspense. The Needle Pit in Saw II remains one of the most fear-inducing traps in the series, testing viewers’ phobias.
In Saw III, Dr. Lynn Denlon’s trap showcases Jigsaw’s manipulation tactics while maintaining plausible deniability. The Shotgun Collar threat looms over every scene, adding tension to the film. Saw IV introduces traps targeting criminals, making a case for those who deserve their fate. The Spike Trap, involving an abusive father and his wife, is visually striking and tied to the lesson Jigsaw wants to teach.
Saw V features a unique game where cooperation is key to survival, emphasizing the importance of working together. Saw VI critiques America’s healthcare system, with the Shotgun Carousel trap highlighting the consequences of individual decisions. Saw: The Final Chapter is considered a low point, with the Horsepower Trap standing out for its unique setup.
In Jigsaw, traps are simpler as it depicts one of the killer’s earliest games. Spiral: From the Book of Saw features the Subway Trap, making viewers queasy with its gruesome nature. Saw X traps are gruesome and memorable, with the Brain Surgery Trap showcasing Jigsaw’s thirst for blood.
Each Saw movie brings its own distinct traps and themes, contributing to the overall legacy of the franchise. Despite varying reception, the series continues to captivate audiences with its elaborate death games and intricate storytelling.
