It is being reported that Blumhouse Productions is on the verge of acquiring the controlling rights to Twisted Pictures' stake in the "Saw" franchise. This move will reunite James Wan, the franchise's co-creator, with the iconic property that launched his career.
This deal effectively positions Blumhouse to take creative and production reins from longtime franchise custodians Mark Burg and Oren Koules of Twisted Pictures. Lionsgate will remain a key stakeholder and retains its 50% ownership of the billion-dollar franchise. The two companies are expected to collaborate on any future developments under this new arrangement.
Though no new "Saw" film has officially entered development at this time, this is seen as a full-circle moment for James Wan, who directed the first "Saw" film in 2004 and co-wrote it with longtime collaborator Leigh Whannell. The original movie became a sleeper hit that redefined the torture-horror subgenre and introduced audiences to John "Jigsaw" Kramer.
Wan has continued to serve as executive producer throughout the franchise's evolution but now stands to have a more involved creative role again, especially under the Blumhouse banner, with whom he's already had success through the Insidious and Malignant films.
"Saw" is one of the most successful horror franchises in cinematic history. Its central figure, Jigsaw, isn't a conventional killer. Instead, he places victims into deadly traps that force them to make gruesome choices in order to survive. The series became known for its psychological complexity, graphic violence, and twist endings.
Since its debut, the franchise has grossed over $1 billion globally across ten feature films. The property has also inspired comic books, video games, amusement park attractions, and a merchandise line that includes Halloween masks, apparel, and collectibles.
Tags: saw, blumhouse, james wan
