While far from universally loved, “Jigsaw”, the much belated 8th installment in the “Saw” franchise, has been a rousing success, financially at least. It’s been a universally strong year for horror at the Box Office (even while other films struggled) and despite opening far less than it’s predecessors, “Jigsaw” has cleared a cool $100 Million.
The days of the annual horror installment seem to be behind us, with nary a peep from the “Paranormal Activity” franchise, and this being the first “Saw” film in over seven years. But with “The Conjuring” universe creeping up on us, and maybe “The Dark Universe” if it doesn’t get cancelled (spoilers: things don’t look good) maybe soon horror fans will have a series to look forward to every Halloween.
I love innovation as much as anyone, and any new ways films can be shit-your-pants-scary are A-ok in my book. Still, a little redundancy and familiarity never killed anyone. Well, except for all the poor saps trapped in “Saw” films.