The Saw franchise is not for the weak-hearted. Since the original Saw debuted in theaters in 2004, it has produced six sequels and two spin-offs (Jigsaw and Spiral), each escalating the gruesome antics of the story’s main antagonist, the serial killer known as Jigsaw. However, the inaugural film remains the boldest of the series, thanks to its jaw-dropping twists and the extreme lengths to which characters will go to survive. If you’re on the hunt for films akin to Saw, you likely crave another grisly mystery to unravel. You’re in luck—many films have attempted to capture the wild horror essence introduced by Jigsaw.
While numerous torture-themed horror films have emerged, many fall short of capturing the depth of Saw. These movies often focus solely on shocking viewers without exploring the psychological complexities that drive the characters. The best films in the Saw vein manage to both horrify and engage, forcing viewers to peer through their fingers while contemplating the twisted motivations of both the villains and their victims. At its core, Saw is a survival story—demonstrating just how far the protagonists will go to escape Jigsaw’s clutches.
Below is a curated selection of films inspired by the Saw franchise, along with some that predate it. From the harrowing challenges faced by the characters in Escape Room to the boundary-pushing horror of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, these films will undoubtedly evoke strong Saw vibes—and the nightmares that accompany them.
Must-Watch Movies for Saw Enthusiasts
- Hostel (2005)
The first film to ride on Saw’s success, Hostel might just make you think twice about traveling again. Three friends backpacking across Europe seek a Slovakian hostel rumored to house beautiful women but instead stumble into a deadly game that ensnares unsuspecting tourists for sport. - Escape Room (2017)
With escape rooms rising in popularity, this film takes the concept to a terrifying new level. A group of friends finds themselves trapped in a high-stakes escape room where the danger is all too real. - Cube (1997)
Released before Saw, Cube feels like a precursor that influenced director James Wan. It follows a group of strangers who awaken in a maze of cubic cells, each rigged with lethal traps, and must work together to escape. - Devil (2010)
If you’re after a film that merges the psychological tension of the Saw series with a supernatural element, Devil is a perfect choice. Five strangers are trapped in an elevator, and one might be the devil himself. - The Collector (2009)
Packed with shocking twists, The Collector tells the story of a burglar who breaks into a wealthy family’s home, only to find that they’re already held captive—and the previous intruder has set deadly traps to eliminate anyone attempting to rescue them.
Even More Films to Satisfy Your Saw Cravings
- You’re Next (2011)
- Scream (1996)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- The Platform (2019)
- Vacancy (2007)
- Would You Rather (2012)
- Till Death (2021)
- Circle (2015)
- The Game (1997)
- Seven (1995)
- The Purge (2013)
- Wolf Creek (2005)
- Exam (2009)
- The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007)
- Final Destination (2000)
- Oldboy (2003)
- The Last House on the Left (2009)
- Untraceable (2008)
- The Belko Experiment (2005)
- You’re Next (2011)
- Ready or Not (2019)
- The Strangers (2008)
- Wrong Turn (2003)
- WAZ (2007)
- The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
- Audition (1999)
- Nine Dead (2010)
- Intruders (2015)
- Don’t Breathe (2016)
- Split (2016)
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Summary: This article lists terrifying films that evoke the intense horror and survival elements found in the Saw franchise. From Hostel to Escape Room, these movies provide thrilling experiences for horror aficionados.