Saw (film)

Saw is a 2004 American independent horror film directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell, based on a story by Wan and Whannell. It is the first installment in the Saw film series. The film stars Leigh Whannell, Cary Elwes, Danny Glover, Monica Potter, Michael Emerson, and Tobin Bell.

The film centers around two strangers, Dr. Lawrence Gordon (Elwes) and Adam Stanheight (Whannell), who awaken chained in a dilapidated bathroom, with a corpse lying between them. They are given cryptic instructions by a taped message from the Jigsaw Killer, a serial killer who subjects his victims to deadly "games" or "tests" that force them to inflict pain on themselves and others to survive. Lawrence and Adam must solve the puzzle and survive, or face deadly consequences.

Saw established the Saw franchise, known for its intricate traps, gore, moralistic themes, and twist endings. It was produced on a low budget and initially intended as a direct-to-video release but was given a theatrical release after positive reception at film festivals. Its financial success spawned a series of sequels, each building upon the mythology and expanding the lore of the Jigsaw Killer and his apprentices. The film deals with themes of appreciating life, the consequences of one's actions, and the value of survival instincts.