The Return of the "Jigsaw" Terror: Haunting Minds and Shaking Morals

The Saw horror franchise has long been known for its gruesome traps, intricate plots, and shocking plot twists. Among its many films, Jigsaw (2017) attempts to resurrect the terror of the legendary serial killer who has long been dead. This film is not just a bloody spectacle but also a psychological game that forces viewers to reflect on the value of life and the consequences of our choices. 

A Story Split by Time

Jigsaw reintroduces John "Jigsaw" Kramer's modus operandi in a clever and confusing way. The story has two parallel timelines: 

• The Present: Detective Halloran and his police officers are occupied with a new series of murders that follow Jigsaw's pattern. They must chase the ghost of a man who should have been dead for more than a decade.

• The Past: Five people wake up in a mysterious barn with deadly traps awaiting them. They are forced to confess their sins and play a life-or-death game designed by Jigsaw. 

This separation of time is the key to the film's plot twist, where viewers eventually realize that the two storylines are not happening at the same time. The police investigation takes place in the present, while the game shown on screen is a flashback to events that occurred before the first Saw film. 

A Game That Tests Morality

Like other Saw films, Jigsaw's main motive is not to kill but to "rehabilitate" his victims. He targets individuals he believes have squandered their lives in various ways, such as drug addicts or those who take shortcuts by harming others. Through his traps, Jigsaw forces his victims to face their mistakes and demonstrate a will to live, albeit in the most brutal way possible. 

However, Jigsaw's moral lessons are often debated. Can a person truly change after being forced to endure such trauma? In Jigsaw (2017), this narrative is explored more deeply by presenting a different perspective. A side of John Kramer's character that has never been seen before is shown, highlighting his struggles before becoming the mastermind behind all the games.

Analysis of the Film Jigsaw (2017): Between Praise and Criticism

• Praise: The film successfully brings back the best elements of the Saw franchise, such as creative traps, shocking plot twists, and Tobin Bell's outstanding presence as Jigsaw. Despite being dead in the storyline, his character still manages to spread terror and a philosophy that made the franchise so iconic.

• Criticism: Some critics argue that Jigsaw feels less fresh and simply rehashes the old formula. The traps are considered more "humane" compared to previous films, which diminishes the level of horror expected by hardcore Saw fans. Its confusing plot also leaves some viewers tired of following the convoluted, non-linear timeline. 

Legacy and Influence

Regardless of the pros and cons, Jigsaw (2017) remains an important part of the Saw franchise legacy. The film proves that public interest in Jigsaw's psychological games is still high. Its arrival paved the way for the franchise's continuation, including Saw X (2023), which brings John Kramer back with new games that are more personal and brutal. 

Ultimately, the film Jigsaw is a thought-provoking watch that sparks debate. Whether it is a success or a failure depends on the viewer's perspective. But one thing is certain: Jigsaw's terror will continue, reminding us that the small choices we make in life can have much larger consequences than we imagine.