AW XI (2025) marks the return of the notorious Jigsaw killer, promising more mind-bending traps, psychological tension, and chilling twists that have made the SAW franchise an enduring symbol of horror cinema. Directed by a returning filmmaker from the series, SAW XI is expected to delve deeper into the legacy of John Kramer, the original Jigsaw (played by Tobin Bell), and the consequences of his twisted philosophy on life and death.

The story begins after the shocking events of SAW X (2023), which explored the depths of John Kramer’s past and his motivations for becoming the Jigsaw killer. In SAW XI, the franchise takes a more psychological approach, exploring the aftermath of Kramer’s death and the rise of new, twisted individuals who have adopted his methods, continuing his reign of terror. However, the film focuses primarily on the tension between Detective Mark Hoffman (Costas Mandylor), who survived previous encounters with Jigsaw and is now continuing Kramer’s legacy in secret, and a new figure who may be carrying out the next generation of Jigsaw’s horrific work.

The film opens with a series of brutal, elaborate traps set for people who have taken advantage of others, echoing Kramer’s original mission to teach his victims the value of life. However, as the body count rises, there is a question: Who is really behind these new traps? Is it someone trying to honor Jigsaw’s twisted code, or is there a more sinister force at play?

In this installment, the audience is introduced to a new killer, possibly a former disciple of Jigsaw, who has taken his philosophy to a darker, more radical extreme. This new character, Dr. Evelyn Shaw, is a former medical professional who has become obsessed with the idea of forcing individuals to “cure” themselves by suffering through intense psychological and physical tests. Her traps are even more devious, designed not just to punish but to break down the psyche of her victims, forcing them to relive their darkest moments.