Spiral

Spiral (2021) is an American horror-thriller movie that takes viewers on a spine-chilling journey into a gruesome world filled with deadly traps and perilous twists that will keep them on the edge of their seats. Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman in his fourth outing within the franchise, the film serves as the ninth installment in the popular Saw film series. The movie stars comedic heavyweight Chris Rock, versatile actor Samuel L. Jackson, and the talented Max Minghella, making it one of the most highly anticipated movies of 2021.

The story of Spiral revolves around Detective Ezekiel "Zeke" Banks, played by Chris Rock, who together with his rookie partner Detective William Schenk, portrayed by Max Minghella, is tasked with investigating a series of gruesome murders that have gripped the city. This case, however, is no ordinary one, as the murders bear a disturbing resemblance to the morbidly innovative killings of the city's notorious past — the ones committed by the notorious Jigsaw Killer.

As Zeke delves deeper into the investigation and navigates the horrid crime scenes, he realizes he is in a dreadful cat-and-mouse game with a sinister copycat killer. The game takes a personal turn when his veteran police-father, Marcus Banks, depicted by the indomitable Samuel L. Jackson, gets drawn into the grim series of events. With every clue leading to another bone-chilling trap, Zeke and William find themselves entrapped in a deadly plot, mirroring the chaotic madness the city once faced.

Chris Rock shines in a decidedly more serious role than we are accustomed to seeing him, delivering a pure, complex portrayal of a detective ensnared in a life-and-death situation. His humor is subtly woven into his character, making for a few lighter moments amidst the otherwise high tension. Samuel L. Jackson, in a supporting role, brings his unique brand of charisma and gravitas to the screen, creating a compelling dynamics between him and Rock, especially in their many emotionally intense scenes.

Max Minghella, known for his usually quiet and subdued roles, is in his element as the rookie police officer, infusing his character with a sense of vulnerability and tenacity. His chemistry with Rock creates riveting viewing, completing a trio of excellent performances that form the heart of the movie.

The movie's strength lies in its adept merging of the typical components of a mystery thriller, with the shocking visuals and grotesque design of a horror film. True to its legacy, Spiral doesn’t shy away from the gory aspects intrinsic to the Saw franchise, balancing them with a rich narrative steeped in suspense and intrigue. Each trap is terrifyingly intricate, and the script is well-crafted to ensure each plot development contributes to the escalating fear factor.

Director Darren Lynn Bousman, returning to the Saw series after more than a decade, clearly shows his prowess with an adroit use of genre conventions. His deft handling of the suspense coupled with gritty visuals help create a visceral and propulsive film that strives to inject new blood into the long-running series.

While Spiral stands on its own, being less a sequel and more a new chapter in the Saw chronicles, it successfully pays homage to its predecessors, subtly referencing events and aspects from the earlier films. This rewards long time fans with the nostalgia of throwing back to their beloved franchise, yet inviting the newer audience to a harrowing tale of horror and suspense.

Despite being a horror-thriller, Spiral has layers of social commentary woven into its narrative. It does not shy away from throwing light on critical issues such as police corruption and the consequences of vigilante justice.

In conclusion, Spiral is a riveting horror-thriller that presents a unique fusion of mystery, suspense, and gore, engaging viewers with elements of a crime procedural mixed with the gruesome traps the Saw franchise is known for. Packed with solid performances and a suspense driven plot, Spiral stands as a fitting expansion to the Saw franchise and a thrilling film in its own right. For fans of the Saw series and lovers of intense, spine-chilling cinema, this movie delivers a roller-coaster ride of nail-biting suspense and pure terror.