(Image Source: Lionsgate)
Earlier this month, major outlets reported that horror powerhouse Blumhouse Productions was reportedly close to acquiring the "Saw" franchise rights from Twisted Pictures for nearly $100 million. Today, it was officially confirmed that the acquisition is complete: Blumhouse now holds 50% of the "Saw" franchise rights previously owned by Twisted Pictures. The other 50% remains with Lionsgate, distributor of the first ten installments, and Lionsgate will continue to handle distribution for future sequels.
(Image Source: James Wan's Facebook)
The acquisition carries another significant implication: "Saw" creator and original director James Wan has regained creative control. This is because his production company, Atomic Monster, merged with Blumhouse three years ago. Therefore, Blumhouse's acquisition of "Saw" effectively means Wan has reacquired his seminal franchise.
Wan excitedly shared the news on Facebook and Instagram earlier today, teasing his future involvement in the sequels. "For me, this is incredibly significant as it marks my first return to the franchise as a creator since the early days of my career," Wan wrote. "I look forward to continuing the original spirit and pushing the series forward in bold, unexpected ways."
While Wan held an executive producer credit on the previous nine sequels, this was largely a ceremonial title common in Hollywood. Despite being a co-creator of the franchise, he hadn't been actively involved in production. Now, Wan has truly regained meaningful control, and he is clearly eager to continue expanding the story, indicating that the series won't stop at its tenth installment.