The highly anticipated horror sequel Saw XI has hit a roadblock, with production stalled due to internal disputes at Lionsgate. Originally slated for a September 2024 release, the film has been pushed back to September 26, 2025, with no significant progress since the screenplay was submitted in early 2024.
According to writer Patrick Melton, who has been involved with the franchise since Saw IV, the delay isn’t due to creative differences but rather managerial disagreements. “We haven’t heard anything since May,” Melton stated. “It’s stalled at a managerial level. It has nothing to do with the creative or anything else.”
Kevin Greutert, who successfully revived the franchise with Saw X in 2023, was announced as the director, but it remains unclear if he is still attached. Saw X was a surprise hit, grossing $112 million worldwide and earning praise for its return to the franchise’s roots.
Despite the uncertainty, Melton and his team have developed a timely and socially relevant concept for Saw XI, similar to Saw VI, which tackled the healthcare industry.
That installment saw Jigsaw targeting corrupt insurance executives, a theme that has gained renewed attention following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson earlier this year. In a bizarre twist, Melton revealed that he and Thompson attended the University of Iowa together and graduated in the same year. While they weren’t close, Melton recalled, “I can tell you Brian was pretty normal at school. He drank Bud Light and was a good guy.”
Melton remains hopeful that Saw XI will move forward, emphasizing the importance of its themes. “It taps into the same frustration people feel when they’re powerless, and John Kramer steps in to do something about it,” he explained. However, until Lionsgate and the producers resolve their disputes, the fate of Saw XI remains uncertain.
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Source: Hollywood Reporter
Photo Credit: Lionsgate
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