Saw movies in order: The Saw franchise, launched by Australian filmmakers James Wan and Leigh Whannell in 2004, redefined horror cinema with its chilling blend of psychological thrills, gruesome traps, and the enigmatic Jigsaw killer. Grossing over $1 billion worldwide, it’s one of the highest-grossing horror series ever, expanding into video games, comics, and theme park attractions. Yet, for all its brilliance, the Saw movies timeline can be a labyrinth—non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, and overlapping plots leave fans puzzled. Watching the Saw movies in order isn’t just a preference; it’s key to unraveling John Kramer’s twisted legacy and the motives of his apprentices. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned fan, this guide breaks down the Saw franchise in order, ensuring you experience every scream-worthy moment as intended.
Why the Saw Timeline is Confusing?
The Saw film series explained through its timeline reveals a chaotic masterpiece. Non-linear storytelling weaves past and present, with flashbacks—like those in Saw IV unveiling Jigsaw’s origins—adding layers of complexity. Overlapping events, such as Saw III and Saw IV occurring simultaneously, defy a straightforward watch. Prequels like Saw X (2023), set between the first and second films, further muddle the sequence. This intricate structure, while brilliant, demands a clear Saw movies timeline to track John Kramer’s descent into Jigsaw and the roles of apprentices like Amanda Young and Mark Hoffman.
Also See: I Know What You Did Last Summer Movies in Order
How to Watch Saw Movies in Chronological Order
Here’s how to watch Saw movies in order based on the story’s events, complete with release years and summaries. Note deviations from release order and brace for minor spoilers where needed.
1. Saw (2004)
Summary: Dr. Lawrence Gordon and photographer Adam Stanheight awake chained in a bathroom, facing Jigsaw’s first known game. Flashbacks introduce John Kramer’s philosophy.
Note: The franchise’s chronological and release-order starting point.
2. Saw X (2023)
Summary: Set between Saw and Saw II, a desperate John Kramer seeks a cancer cure in Mexico, only to uncover a scam. With Amanda and Hoffman, he unleashes vengeance via traps.
Deviation: Released in 2023 but slots early in the timeline.
3. Saw II (2005)
Summary: Detective Eric Matthews hunts Jigsaw, whose health wanes, while his son Daniel is trapped with convicts in a gas-filled house. Amanda emerges as an apprentice.
Note: Follows Saw X in Jigsaw’s arc.
4. Saw III (2006)
Summary: A dying Jigsaw tests Amanda’s loyalty as Dr. Lynn Denlon keeps him alive. Jeff Denlon faces a revenge-fueled game. Amanda’s traps prove flawed.
Note: Runs concurrently with Saw IV.
5. Saw IV (2007)
Summary: Officer Daniel Rigg navigates Jigsaw’s tests, orchestrated by Hoffman. Flashbacks reveal Hoffman’s forced apprenticeship. John dies, but his work endures.
Deviation: Released after Saw III but overlaps in time.
6. Saw V (2008)
Summary: Hoffman, now solo, tests five people tied to a deadly fire. Flashbacks detail his recruitment after avenging his sister.
Note: Picks up post-Saw IV.
7. Saw VI (2009)
Summary: Hoffman targets insurance exec William Easton, who denied John’s treatment. Jill Tuck traps Hoffman, who escapes.
Note: Continues from Saw V.
8. Saw 3D (2010)
Summary: Hoffman hunts Jill, who exposes him. Fraud Bobby Dagen faces a game, and Dr. Gordon, an apprentice, traps Hoffman.
Note: Ends the main series arc.
9. Jigsaw (2017)
Summary: Years after John’s death, a new game hints at a copycat. Logan Nelson, John’s first apprentice, is unmasked as the killer.
Deviation: Set post-Saw 3D despite later release.
10. Spiral (2021)
Summary: Detective Zeke Banks investigates a Jigsaw-inspired killer targeting corrupt cops in this standalone spin-off.
Deviation: No direct tie to the main timeline.
Saw Spin-offs and Reboots
1. Jigsaw (2017)
A semi-reboot, it introduces Logan Nelson as a copycat and ties loosely to John’s legacy. It’s skippable for the main Saw franchise in order but adds depth.
2. Spiral-From the Book of Saw (2021)
A true spin-off, it diverges with a new killer and story, sharing only thematic links. Optional for Jigsaw’s core journey.
Both expand the Jigsaw movies order but aren’t essential to the original saga.
How many Saw Movies are there?
There are ten Saw movies, spanning from 2004 to 2023, with an eleventh film planned but stalled as of March 2025, expanding the horror franchise’s complex timeline.
All Saw Movies in Order of Release Date
Here is the list of Saw movie in order of release date:
- Saw — October 29, 2004
- Saw II — October 28, 2005
- Saw III — October 27, 2006
- Saw IV — October 26, 2007
- Saw V — October 24, 2008
- Saw VI — October 23, 2009
- Saw 3D — October 29, 2010
- Jigsaw — October 27, 2017
- Spiral — May 14, 2021
- Saw X — September 29, 2023
- Saw XI — TBA
Where to Watch the Saw Movies
As of June 2025, here’s where to stream the Saw movies (availability may shift—check JustWatch for updates):
- Peacock: Hosts Saw through Saw 3D and Jigsaw.
- Netflix: Sporadically offers Saw, Saw II, and Saw III.
- Hulu: May include Spiral and select sequels.
- Amazon Prime Video: Rentals or purchases for all films.
- Lionsgate+: Likely has the full Saw movies timeline.
Best Way to Watch Saw Film Series: Release vs Chronological
1. Release Order (Best for Newbies) Order:
- Saw (2004), Saw II (2005), Saw III (2006), Saw IV (2007), Saw V (2008), Saw VI (2009), Saw 3D (2010), Jigsaw (2017), Spiral (2021), Saw X (2023).
- Pros: Preserves twists and reveals as intended.
- Cons: Jumps in timeline can confuse.
- Ideal For: First-timers seeking the original experience.
2. Chronological Order (Best for Veterans) Order:
- Listed above in the chronological section.
- Pros: Clarifies Jigsaw’s evolution and character arcs.
- Cons: Early spoilers from Saw X and others.
- Ideal For: Returning fans wanting deeper insight.
Recommendation: New fans, stick to release order. Returning fans, try chronological, skipping Spiral for the main arc.
FAQ: Your Saw Movies Questions Answered
1. Is Spiral part of the Saw series?
Yes, but it’s a standalone spin-off with a new killer, not tied to John Kramer’s timeline.
2. Do I need to watch Saw in order?
Not strictly, but it’s highly recommended. Release order enhances twists; chronological order deepens story comprehension.
3. What is the correct order to watch Saw movies?
For the full Saw film series explained: Saw (2004), Saw X (2023), Saw II (2005), Saw III (2006), Saw IV (2007), Saw V (2008), Saw VI (2009), Saw 3D (2010), Jigsaw (2017). Spiral (2021) is optional.
Conclusion:
The Saw franchise’s blend of brutal traps and moral quandaries cements its horror legacy, but its tangled timeline requires guidance. Newcomers should dive in with release order to savor the surprises, while seasoned fans can master the Saw movies in order chronologically for a richer narrative. With Saw XI stalled as of March 2025, and whispers of Blumhouse’s involvement, Jigsaw’s future tantalizes. What’s your favorite Saw film or trap? Drop it in the comments below!
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