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The popular horror franchise returns once again with “Saw VI”. Has this series run out of steam? Or, does a new director breath new life into the film?

The Good: Despite a change to new director Kevin Greutert, this is one of the best Saw films yet. They ratchet up the gore level once again, and tie up some loose ends quite nicely. For once, there may have been more questions about previous films answered than new ones proposed. The characters are much more…human. I found myself rooting for people to survive much more than in previous films. Also, I loved the back story of William Eastman, one of the main characters. I won’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil it, but this film does the best in creating genuine anger toward its “victim”.

The film explains more of jigsaw’s back story and information about Hoffman and Amanda. There’s also a character returning that you might not expect.

As always, there are some fun and interesting twists and turns, although one is more predictable than in previous installments. The ending sets up a very interesting premise for “Saw VII” if they make one (which they will).

The Bad: After all, this is a “Saw” film, and just like in “Saw” one through five there are problems. The acting is spotty in places, and lines come off as unintentionally hilarious. It does require a big suspension of disbelief in parts, and you can tell this is director’s Greutert’s first film. The gore is disturbing in parts, and the ending doesn’t seem quite as satisfying as in previous films.

The Final Word: If you like “Saw”, this is easily one of the best ones of the series. If you hate it, this won’t change your mind. That being said, “Saw VI” was an enjoyable film, and proved once again why the series is a cut above the normal “horror porn” films that are out there.

Lukas Eggen