Saw X cuts through box office previews with $2M, and The Creator collects $1.6M

The latest chapter in the Saw franchise, Saw X, isn’t playing games at the box office. The tenth entry in the fan-favorite horror franchise buzzed its way to $2M in Thursday previews as it battles for the top spot against the Gareth Edwards science-fiction epic The Creator and PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie. Analysts say all three movies could make as much as $45M during opening weekend.

While Saw X is ready to cut its way to the top of the chart, analysts think The Creator or PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie could emerge victorious. The Saw franchise has a loyal fanbase for sure. However, marketing campaigns for The Creator and PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie have been stronger than Jigsaw’s latest effort to keep torture horror alive. In all fairness, Lionsgate doesn’t need to spend much money promoting Saw X. It’s a well-established franchise, and anyone buying a ticket will likely know what they’re in for.

Today’s numbers account for Wednesday night premium screenings and Thursday night showings that kick off at 6 p.m. While Saw X earned $2M, The Creator snagged $1.6M. The Creator, wholly financed by New Regency, needs to do a bit better if it’s going to recover its $80M budget. Thankfully, the film is playing in local theaters, Imax, ScreenX, and 4D, in 3,680 theaters.

 Here’s the official synopsis for Saw X:

In the Twisted Pictures next installment John Kramer (Tobin Bell) is back, and it’s the untold chapter of Jigsaw’s final games. Set between the events of Saw I and II, a sick and desperate John travels to Mexico for a risky and experimental medical procedure in hopes of a miracle cure for his cancer – only to discover the entire operation is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable. The infamous serial killer returns to his work, turning the tables on the con artists in his signature visceral way through devious, deranged, and ingenious traps.

Which new film do you think will climb to the top of the box office charts this weekend? If you head to the theater, which movie are you seeing? Let us know in the comments below!