Saw XI (2025)

\Genre: Horror | Thriller | Psychological
Directed by: Kevin Greutert
Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Angus Macfadyen, Max Thieriot
Runtime: 1h 45min
Studio: Lionsgate | Twisted Pictures

After the critical success of Saw X (2023), which cleverly bridged the original timeline and breathed new life into the franchise, Saw XI arrives as a direct continuation—and it does so with both nostalgia and brutal innovation. With returning faces, grotesque new traps, and a more psychological approach, this 2025 installment proves that Jigsaw’s influence is far from over.

Set shortly after the events of Saw X, Saw XI follows a mysterious new game orchestrated by a disciple of John Kramer (Tobin Bell)—but this time, the focus is on Jigsaw’s legacy being corrupted by a rogue follower, who believes they've perfected his ideology… by making it deadlier.

As a group of morally flawed individuals awaken in a derelict asylum in Prague, they are forced into a series of gruesome, morality-based traps—each one tailored to expose a personal sin. Meanwhile, Amanda Young (Shawnee Smith) returns to investigate whether this game truly represents John Kramer’s intent or a complete perversion of it.

• Tobin Bell continues to command the screen with gravitas, appearing through flashbacks, recordings, and twisted mentorships. Even in limited screen time, his presence is haunting and philosophical.

• Shawnee Smith is more complex than ever, delivering a deeply conflicted portrayal of Amanda as she tries to uphold Jigsaw’s legacy while doubting its modern imitators.

• Max Thieriot (as a survivor-turned-investigator) adds fresh energy, bringing emotional stakes and skepticism to the story.

• The victims themselves deliver solid performances, though some fall into familiar archetypes.

Kevin Greutert, who has become the defining voice of the modern Saw era, returns to direct with precision. Saw XI blends classic franchise style—quick cuts, time loops, and gritty cinematography—with a more modern psychological edge. The traps are still terrifying and innovative, but the film puts more focus on the moral tension and philosophical dilemma of who gets to carry on the Jigsaw name.

The pacing is sharp, and the editing is tight, particularly during the climactic reveal—an expected twist that still manages to shock.

• The distortion of ideology

• Justice versus vengeance

• Legacy and corruption

• Pain as a pathway to truth—or manipulation?

Where earlier films fixated on gore, Saw XI dives deeper into what Jigsaw’s games mean, asking: What happens when his rules are twisted by someone who misunderstands them?

• Excellent balance between legacy characters and new blood

• Smarter, more focused script than earlier sequels

• Brutal, creative traps that reflect character sins

• A deeper psychological tone and philosophical questions

• A haunting, memorable ending that sets up the next chapter

• Some traps feel like callbacks rather than innovations

• New villain's backstory could be more fleshed out

• Requires strong knowledge of previous films to fully appreciate

• A few pacing dips in the second act

Saw XI proves that the Saw franchise still has sharp teeth. With gruesome set pieces, returning icons, and a layered narrative, it honors John Kramer’s twisted philosophy while exploring the dangers of legacy in the wrong hands. This is a smart, savage entry that will please long-time fans and newcomers brave enough to enter the game.