Saw
Summary
Hosts Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer discuss the 2004 horror film Saw, analyzing its legacy and the chaotic production history of the franchise’s origin. They detail how directors James Wan and Lee Whannell struggled to fund the project in Australia before traveling to Los Angeles to pitch it to Evolution Entertainment. The episode explores the filmmakers’ early careers, the influence of 2000s horror trends, and the specific challenges they faced in securing financing and visas while maintaining creative control over the final cut.
Topics discussed
Intro and sponsor read
Welcome and introduction to Saw
Hosts' initial reactions and viewing experience
Context: Horror genre landscape and torture porn debate
Praise for James Wan and Lee Wanell's start
Cast, crew, and release details
Sources for the episode
Meeting at film school and early struggles
The short film 'Negative' and the decision to make Saw
Sponsor reads: Monarch and Article
Developing the script and the title 'Saw'
Writing the twist and Jigsaw's traps
Funding issues and the decision to self-finance
Pitching to studios and meeting Greg Hoffman
Casting the lead roles and Danny Glover
Casting Cary Elwes and Shani Smith
Production challenges and shooting in a warehouse
Editing with Kevin Grotbert and creative solutions
Charlie Clouser's score and Sundance premiere
Box office success and critical reception
Cary Elwes lawsuit and franchise growth
Legacy of Wan and Wanell in horror
Conclusion and lessons on creative control
Outro, upcoming episodes, and credits
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