This is the review I posted at the House of Jigsaw board (where director James Wan and writer/actor Leigh Whannell post from time to time):
After seeing it twice already, here are my thoughts...
I thought this film was extrordinary. The writing, directing, cinematography--I was floored. And I thought the acting was just fine. Leigh was perfect as Adam. He added a great blend of humor to the terrifying plot. And his reaction to when the jigsaw killer gets up at the end was just awesome. I thought Cary did a good job, too. I can only imagine how difficult his role must have been to portray.
You guys really outdid yourselves with this one. I'm a huge horror movie buff, but most horror films lately have left me feeling less than impressed (*cough*The Grudge*cough*). Then again, this wasn't your typical gore-fest scary movie. It was more psychological, it made you think and it made you feel for the characters. I love that.
The ending, of course, was beyond brilliant. Did anyone see that one coming? Truly brilliant. One of the best plot twists of any film. And I love how it ended so openly. A lot of people hate not getting closure, but I think it's great. There's just something about not knowing that makes it all the more intriguing.
Thank you for this exceptional film. I loved every second of it.