To be honest, I'm rather surprised to be writing this, but the fourth (and not final) installment in the Saw series was much better written and executed than one might have imagined.

The horror series has transformed itself from what seemed moving toward repeatedly a sordid, repetitious tale into a well-woven, intricate mesh with depth and genuine character. Gone are the early days of the genre in which Michael Myers or Jason Voorhees were repeatedly resurrected subsequent to certain death in every previous sequel.

In these modern days, audiences young and old seem not only to appreciate, but passionately hunger for much more thoughtful, elaborate works than the days of yore, and Saw 4 really does not leave you needing more. However, it may leave you eager for the next installment as it did for this reporter.

The visual style of Darren Lynn Bousman (who directed parts 2 through 4) is enjoyably consistent with the rest of the series and the plot seems packed with yeast as it swells beyond expectations. Of course in comparison to films of other genres this may not be everyone's favorite cake, but if you have the capacity to appreciate a horror flick that you felt sure would disappoint, you could very well come asking for seconds.

All in all, this flick is definitely worth a peek. Just be sure that you are caught up in the series, but if you only have time for one, it absolutely must be the third installment that's fresh in your memory when you make the worthwhile trek out to see Saw IV.

3.75 ★ (out of 5)