Blumhouse, the maker of horror hits like “Insidious” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” has acquired the rights to all future “Saw” films, shows and other properties featuring the murderous, torture-loving Jigsaw.
The company paid an undisclosed amount for the part of the franchise currently owned by producers Oren Koules and Mark Burg. In statements, Koules said it felt like “the right time to pass the baton,” while Burg said he wanted to “move on and tell new stories.”
Lionsgate, which has released all 10 films in the series to the tune of more than $1 billion at the global box office, will continue to be a partner in the property. It will also retain its existing 50% ownership stake in and distribution of future installments.
With the deal, the franchise makes its way back to James Wan, who directed the original, blood-soaked “Saw” in 2004. Wan’s Atomic Monster label merged with Blumhouse in 2024. The company’s list of films includes “Get Out,” “The Purge,” “M3GAN” and “Annabelle.”
Jason Blum, founder of Blumhouse, said that “Saw” had “defined a generation of horror.” “Its cultural impact continues to grow, making this a strategic investment in one of the most recognizable and successful genre properties of the last two decades,” Blum added.
The Blumhouse CEO said that Wan and Leigh Whannell, writer of the first film, will be brought “back in the fold” and will help guide the future of the franchise.
“’Saw’ holds a special place in my heart,” Wan said, adding, “coming back to this world with a fresh perspective is both thrilling and deeply personal. For me, this will mark a significant creative return to the ‘Saw’ franchise for the first time since the early days, and I’m very much looking forward to embracing the original spirit whilst pushing the legacy forward in bold, unexpected ways.”
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CAA Evolution served as sole financial advisor in the transaction.
From Variety US