If you’re popping your Saw cherry with this, it’s a pretty solid start.
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Spiral: From the Book of Saw is the ninth instalment in the Saw franchise. It is directed by Darren Lynn Bousman (Saw II, Saw III, Saw IV) and written by Josh Stolberg and Peter Goldfinger.
Born from an idea from star and executive producer Chris Rock had, Spiral follows police efforts to stop a Jigsaw copycat killer, with Rock’s character Det. Ezekiel "Zeke" Banks and his new partner, idealistic rookie William Schenk (Max Minghella) assigned to the case investigating the death of an off-duty cop. Starring alongside Rock and Minghella are Riverdale’s Marisol Nichols and Samuel L. Jackson.
As a viewer who’s seen enough Saw films to figure out the plot of this film 1/4 way in, I still found myself squirming in my seat every time the antagonist strikes. Can't confirm if the film intentionally borrowed from its original source but if you've seen any Saw films before, it'll be obvious to your eyes. It may be just another less-inspired entry in the franchise but it still knows how to deliver uncomfortable graphic horror like no other.
And while it may be interesting to see Chris Rock branch out from his comedic roots, I’m not too sure Spiral is the best vehicle to judge him for his capabilities just yet. Solid effort though.
If Spiral is any indication to jumpstart the franchise, I’m intrigued to see what else they have in store.
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