Legendary horror film franchise described as '100% dead' gets exciting update in huge win for fans
The first ever Saw film hit screens in 2004 and ten movies later, the gory tale has captivated viewers for years.
After the initial release, the film put stars Tobin Bell and Shawnee Smith on the map, who would return as John Kramer a.k.a. Jigsaw and Amanda Young in several sequels.
Back in December 2023, Saw XI was announced for a September 2024 release following the huge success of Saw X.
However, earlier this year it was revealed the film was 'stalled at a managerial level' and writers Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan claimed they have been blanked by Lionsgate since turning in a draft in May 2024 in an interview with THR.
The most recent film in the Tobin Bell-led franchise - Saw X - was released in September 2023 and was a critical and commercial success.
Melton, who has worked on the franchise since 2007's Saw IV said: 'It's stalled at a managerial level. It has nothing to do with the creative or anything else. There's higher-level things at play.'
Saw XI addresses a 'timely topic' Melton confirmed, although plot details have been not revealed.
'It taps into the same themes of Saw VI, where you're a citizen, you feel angry and frustrated with something, you feel like you can't do anything, and John Kramer's going to do it.'
Melton further claimed the film was 'held up' due to 'inter-squabbling between producers and Lionsgate. They just can't quite get on the same page.'
A source added to Bloody Disgusting of Saw XI: 'It's totally dead. It's 100% over. Almost a year now.'
Now, it has been reported that Blumhouse has acquired part of the Saw franchise from Twisted Pictures, with Lionsgate still continuing as a partner.
It marks a positive move for the future of the 11th movie, though no information about it has been released yet.
The Hollywood Reporter told how Blumhouse boss Jason Blum said: 'The Saw franchise has defined a generation of horror, and its cultural impact continues to grow, making this a strategic investment in one of the most recognisable and successful genre properties of the last two decades.
'But what really excites me about bringing Saw to Blumhouse is having James and Leigh back in the fold and to see the future of the franchise come to life with their guidance.'
It means James Wan, who directed the first ever Saw film, could be involved with the series again.
He said: 'Saw holds a special place in my heart—it's where Leigh and I began our Hollywood journey. Coming back to this world with a fresh perspective is both thrilling and deeply personal.
'For me, this will mark a significant creative return to the Saw franchise for the first time since the early days, and I'm very much looking forward to embracing the original spirit whilst pushing the legacy forward in bold, unexpected ways.'
While Twisted Pictures co-owner Oren Koules said: 'With the success of the tenth film, this felt like the right time to pass the baton. I'm incredibly proud of what we've built with Lionsgate over the past 20 years and deeply grateful to the fans who've been with us since the beginning.
'It's especially meaningful to see the franchise return to its original creators, James and Leigh, and I can't think of a better partner than Jason to lead Saw into its next chapter.'
Co-owner Mark Burg added: '21 years ago, we met James Wan and Leigh Whannell and financed the first Saw movie. The film was magical and a hit beyond our wildest dreams, and our fans kept the franchise alive for over 20 years.
'It's been an amazing ride and, with the recent passing of our beloved executive producer, Jason Constantine, it's time for me to move on and tell new stories.
'Saw will always be a part of my history and Hollywood history, and I hope Jigsaw and the Saw Universe live on for many more movies and years to come.
'Lastly, I'd like to thank all the amazing actors, crew, and Lionsgate executives who have worked with us on 10 movies over the past 20 years — none of this could have happened without you all.
'We wish James, Leigh and Jason huge success with the continuation of the franchise.'
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