The SAW slasher franchise is a series of horror films created by James Wan and Leigh Whannell. The first installment of the franchise was released in 2004 and has since spawned seven sequels, as well as video games, comic books, and other merchandise. The films focus on the character of John Kramer, also known as 'JIGSAW', who uses elaborate traps to test his victims' will to survive. The franchise has become one of the highest-grossing horror franchises of all time, and has been praised for its unique blend of horror and suspense.