Danny Boyle and Alex Garland’s long-awaited return to the rage-infected universe has finally arrived, and early signs point to a genre-defining hit. 28 Years Later premiered in London on June 17, 2025, reigniting a franchise that redefined modern zombie cinema in the early 2000s. Packed with creative risks, sharp performances, and ambitious world-building, the film is not just a continuation—it’s a reinvention.
🎬 Red Carpet Rebirth
The London premiere at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square turned heads. Jodie Comer, dressed in a shimmering metallic silver gown, led the cast alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson and breakout star Alfie Williams. Cillian Murphy, who played Jim in the original 28 Days Later, made a surprise appearance and confirmed his behind-the-scenes involvement as executive producer—and teased a small on-screen return that fans won’t want to miss.
Murphy reflected on his connection to the original film, calling it “a rare lightning-in-a-bottle moment” and praised the new film’s direction for “going further emotionally and visually than ever before.”
🧟♂️ Critical Response: Horror with a Brain
Early reviews are glowing. The Daily Beast called 28 Years Later “modern horror’s premier zombie saga,” and emphasized how the infected have evolved—faster, more intelligent, and more terrifying than ever. The setting in the desolate Scottish Highlands brings a raw, isolated tension that complements the film’s introspective tone.
Entertainment Weekly praised the film’s hybrid genre approach, calling it “visually experimental and narratively ambitious.” The story reportedly blends survival horror with British folklore, dreamlike sequences, and even a touch of dark fantasy—pushing the boundaries of what a zombie film can be.
Meanwhile, The Houston Chronicle highlighted the film’s boldness—from disturbing practical effects (yes, including that now-infamous “zombie genitals” sequence) to medieval-inspired environments, complete with castles and tribal survivors. It’s horror that feels mythic, urgent, and original.
🎥 A Technical Leap: Shot on iPhones
One of the film’s boldest production choices was to shoot nearly all of it using the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Director Danny Boyle said the decision was “about immediacy, intimacy, and discomfort”—giving the film a gritty, handheld intensity that mirrors the original 28 Days Later’s DV aesthetic, but through a modern lens. Critics are already calling it a benchmark moment for mobile filmmaking in major studio cinema.
The approach paid off. Combined with the haunting score by Geoff Barrow (Portishead) and vivid natural cinematography, the film delivers an unnervingly real apocalyptic tone—one that feels closer to lived reality than blockbuster fantasy.
💰 Record-Breaking Pre-Sales
In just 24 hours, 28 Years Later racked up $34 million in pre-sale tickets, making it 2025’s top horror preseller. Analysts predict the film could surpass $300 million globally if the buzz holds. That puts it on pace to be one of the biggest horror box office stories of the decade.
🔮 A Trilogy Begins
This is just the beginning. 28 Years Later is part one of a new trilogy:
- Part II: The Bone Temple, directed by Nia DaCosta (Candyman, The Marvels), is already completed and set for release on January 16, 2026. It picks up directly after the events of 28 Years Later and expands on the lore of the virus and the emerging resistance factions.
- Cillian Murphy is confirmed to play a much larger role in the sequel.
- Boyle is expected to return for the trilogy’s conclusion, which will reportedly take a more “philosophical and surreal” turn—hinting at what Boyle describes as the “spiritual endpoint of infection.”
💡 More Than a Zombie Movie
What makes 28 Years Later resonate so powerfully is that it taps into fears far deeper than zombies. Garland’s script weaves in themes of pandemic trauma, post-Brexit isolationism, digital disconnection, and the human need for belief and belonging. The infected are horrifying, but the emotional infection of hopelessness is even more terrifying.
The film also draws from British mythology and spiritual symbolism—rituals, legends, and tribal structures that create a world where survival is not just physical, but cultural and psychological.
Final Thoughts
28 Years Later isn’t just a return—it’s a resurrection. By embracing stylistic experimentation, tackling modern fears, and reimagining what the zombie genre can be, Boyle and Garland have delivered something that feels urgent and artful. With a trilogy roadmap, returning icons, and bold new voices, the franchise has never looked more alive.
Saw Movies in Order
The Saw franchise has captivated horror fans since 2004 with its intricate traps and twisted morality tales. Understanding the correct viewing order can enhance the experience as the timeline jumps back and forth throughout the series. Watching the Saw movies in chronological order rather than release order reveals deeper connections between characters and provides better context for Jigsaw’s evolution as a serial killer.
Several viewing orders exist for the Saw franchise. The chronological timeline begins with Jigsaw (2017), followed by the original Saw (2004), then the recent Saw X (2023), before continuing with Saw II through Saw 3D. This order differs significantly from the release order, which started with Saw in 2004 and continued yearly until Saw 3D in 2010, with later additions in 2017 and 2023.
Each film builds upon the franchise’s signature elements: elaborate death traps, moral dilemmas, and surprising plot twists. The movies frequently use flashbacks and nonlinear storytelling to reveal new information about John Kramer’s journey as the Jigsaw Killer and the various accomplices who carried on his deadly work.
The Saw movies can be watched in a couple of ways: by release order or by their complex chronological timeline within the story.
Here’s the release order, which is generally recommended for first-time viewers as each film often builds on the previous one’s revelations, even if the in-universe timeline jumps around:
- Saw (2004)
- Saw II (2005)
- Saw III (2006)
- Saw IV (2007)
- Saw V (2008)
- Saw VI (2009)
- Saw 3D (also known as Saw: The Final Chapter) (2010)
- Jigsaw (2017)
- Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)
- Saw X (2023)
- Saw XI (Scheduled for September 26, 2025)
Key Takeaways
- The chronological order of Saw movies differs significantly from their release order, with Jigsaw (2017) starting the timeline despite being one of the newer films.
- Saw X (2023) fits chronologically between the original Saw and Saw II, adding new context to the early days of Jigsaw’s killing spree.
- The franchise has maintained its core elements of elaborate traps and moral questioning while expanding its mythology across ten films from 2004 to 2023.
Evolution of the Saw Franchise
The Saw franchise has transformed from a low-budget indie horror film into one of the most recognizable and profitable horror series in cinema history. This evolution spans multiple films, creative teams, and storytelling approaches while maintaining its core identity of moral dilemmas and elaborate traps.
Origins and Creators
The Saw franchise began in 2004 with the original film directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell, two Australian filmmakers who created the concept on a tight budget. The first Saw movie introduced audiences to the iconic Jigsaw killer, played by Tobin Bell, whose philosophical approach to murder set the series apart from typical slasher films.
What started as a small independent project quickly gained cult status. The original film was made for just $1.2 million but earned over $100 million worldwide. This success was built on its unique premise: forcing victims to make terrible choices to survive elaborate death traps.
The film’s distinctive visual style, with its gritty green-tinted cinematography and quick-cut editing, became a signature look for horror films of that era.
Expansion and Sequels
Following the success of the original, Lionsgate quickly expanded the franchise with yearly installments. Saw II (2005) through Saw VI (2009) deepened the mythology around Jigsaw and introduced new characters who carried on his legacy after his death in Saw III.
Each sequel revealed more about John Kramer’s (Jigsaw’s) backstory and motivations. The timeline became increasingly complex, with later films often taking place concurrently with earlier ones.
Saw X (2023) took an unexpected approach by inserting a new story between the events of the first and second films. This allowed Tobin Bell to return as a still-living John Kramer.
The franchise became known for its intricate continuity, shocking plot twists, and increasingly complex traps. Despite declining critical reception, the films maintained a dedicated fanbase.
Transition to ‘Spiral’
After Saw 3D (2010) supposedly concluded the main series, the franchise took a seven-year break before returning with Jigsaw (2017). This attempt to revitalize the series had mixed results, leading to another strategic shift.
Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021) marked a significant evolution, bringing star power with Chris Rock and Samuel L. Jackson. This film maintained the trap elements but focused more on police procedural aspects.
The Spiral approach represented an attempt to broaden the appeal beyond hardcore horror fans. It retained the moral questioning at the heart of the franchise while creating a somewhat separate storyline.
This transition showed the franchise’s adaptability, shifting from the Jigsaw-centric storylines to explore new directions while maintaining the core elements that fans expected from the series.
Critical Themes and Audience Impact
The Saw franchise has left an indelible mark on horror cinema through its exploration of moral dilemmas, cultural impact, and commercial success. These films blend philosophical questions with graphic content to create a unique viewing experience that resonates far beyond typical genre offerings.
Exploring Morality and Human Nature
The Saw series centers on profound moral questions that challenge characters and viewers alike. Each film explores a core theme: the first emphasizes appreciation for life, while sequels tackle patience, forgiveness, independence, and cooperation. Jigsaw’s twisted philosophy forces victims to confront their personal failings through life-or-death situations.
These elaborate traps serve as physical manifestations of moral tests. Characters must often sacrifice something—physically or emotionally—to survive, raising questions about what humans will do when pushed to extremes.
The franchise doesn’t simply present graphic violence for shock value. Instead, it uses these scenarios to examine human nature under pressure. This moral exploration is often cited by fans as what elevates Saw above simple “torture porn” classification.
Cultural Influence and Reception
The Saw franchise revolutionized horror cinema in the early 2000s, spawning numerous imitators and helping define the “torture horror” subgenre. Critics initially dismissed these films as gratuitous violence, but many later recognized their narrative complexity.
Fans particularly praise the intricate plot connections and unexpected twists that link the films together. The series employs Lost-style flashbacks and revelations that reward attentive viewers, creating an unusually complex storytelling structure for a horror franchise.
These films sparked significant cultural debates about the limits of on-screen violence and the ethics of “torture porn” as entertainment. Despite controversy, they maintained a dedicated fanbase that appreciated the puzzle-box nature of the plots.
Jigsaw became an iconic horror villain, with his gravelly voice and puppet mascot instantly recognizable in popular culture. The franchise’s “game over” catchphrase entered the cultural lexicon, demonstrating its impact beyond horror circles.
Financial and Market Performance
The Saw franchise represents one of the most profitable horror series in film history. The original Saw, produced on a modest $1.2 million budget, grossed over $100 million worldwide—an extraordinary return on investment that caught Lionsgate’s attention.
This success led to a consistent release strategy with films arriving annually for seven consecutive Halloweens, creating a reliable market presence:
| Film | Budget (approx.) | Box Office |
|---|---|---|
| Saw (2004) | $1.2M | $103M |
| Saw II-VII | $3-20M each | $975M combined |
| Jigsaw (2017) | $10M | $103M |
The franchise’s profitability stems from maintaining relatively low production costs while delivering the expected thrills fans demand. This business model influenced how studios approach horror franchises.
Lionsgate leveraged audience research to fine-tune marketing campaigns, emphasizing the puzzle aspects for some audiences and the extreme traps for others through personalized advertising strategies. This targeted approach helped maintain the series’ commercial viability despite critical reception fluctuations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Saw franchise has a complex timeline and viewing order. Fans often have questions about how to best experience these horror films, which streaming services offer them, and their critical reception.
What is the correct order to watch the Saw movie series?
There are two main ways to watch the Saw movies: by release date or chronologically.
For release order, watch: Saw (2004), Saw II (2005), Saw III (2006), Saw IV (2007), Saw V (2008), Saw VI (2009), Saw 3D (2010), Jigsaw (2017), Spiral (2021), and Saw X (2023).
For chronological order of events: Jigsaw (parts), Saw, Saw X, Saw II, Saw III, Saw IV, Saw V, Saw VI, Saw 3D, Jigsaw (remaining parts), and Spiral.
Which Saw movies are currently available on Netflix?
As of March 2025, Netflix’s Saw collection varies by region. Some regions have several films while others have none.
Check your local Netflix catalog for current availability. Streaming rights change frequently, so other platforms like Hulu, Amazon Prime, or specialized horror streaming services might offer the Saw franchise.
Has a new Saw movie been announced for release?
Following Saw X (2023), another installment in the franchise is in development.
The studio has not yet announced an official release date or title. Production details remain limited, but the franchise continues to expand following the success of recent entries.
Can the Saw movies be watched as standalone films or should they be seen in sequence?
While some Saw movies contain independent storylines, they work best when viewed in sequence.
The original Saw can be enjoyed alone. However, later films build heavily on previous plots and character developments. The intricate timeline and recurring characters make sequential viewing the recommended approach for understanding the full story.
How are the Saw movies ranked in terms of critical reception?
The original Saw (2004) received the strongest reviews, praised for its innovation and twist ending.
Later sequels generally received mixed to negative critical responses. Saw VI surprised many with better reviews than its immediate predecessors. Saw X (2023) also earned more positive reception, with critics appreciating its return to the franchise’s roots.
What is the chronological order of events in the Saw film series?
The chronological timeline of Saw events is quite complex due to flashbacks and overlapping stories.
It begins with parts of Jigsaw, then moves to the original Saw. Saw X takes place shortly after the first film. The events then continue through Saw II, III, IV, V, VI, and 3D, which occur in quick succession. The remaining parts of Jigsaw take place years later, with Spiral being the most recent in the timeline.
