Saw V (2008) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of Saw V reveals that Hoffman (Costas Mandylor) has been working as Jigsaw's secret apprentice all along, meticulously continuing John Kramer's (Tobin Bell) legacy of deadly games. The film's climax shows Hoffman surviving his own test-a rigged version of the pendulum trap-while simultaneously orchestrating the fatal "Five Blood Sacrifices" game for five strangers. The final twist confirms Hoffman's loyalty to Jigsaw's philosophy but also hints at his ruthless self-preservation, setting up future conflicts in the franchise. The film leaves unresolved questions about Hoffman's morality, the fate of other survivors, and whether his actions align with Jigsaw's true vision.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending:
The ending of Saw V is a masterclass in layered reveals, tying together the film's dual narratives: Hoffman's backstory as Jigsaw's secret apprentice and the simultaneous deadly game involving five strangers. The climax reveals that Hoffman, who initially appeared to be investigating Jigsaw's crimes, was actually the one orchestrating the "Five Blood Sacrifices" trap. This game forced the participants to work together or die, mirroring Jigsaw's philosophy of valuing life through sacrifice. However, Hoffman's motives are revealed to be more self-serving, as he rigs the game to ensure their deaths, proving his willingness to bend Jigsaw's rules for his own survival.
The film's most shocking moment comes when Hoffman survives the pendulum trap, which was designed to kill him. This trap was set by John Kramer (Jigsaw) as a final test of Hoffman's loyalty and ingenuity. Hoffman's ability to escape not only solidifies his role as Jigsaw's successor but also demonstrates his cold, calculating nature. Unlike Amanda, Jigsaw's previous apprentice, Hoffman lacks remorse and is willing to kill indiscriminately, even those who "win" their games. This divergence from Jigsaw's original philosophy sets up future conflicts, particularly in Saw VI, where Hoffman's ruthlessness becomes a central theme.
The five strangers' storyline culminates in a brutal twist: despite working together to survive the series of traps, Hoffman ensures their demise by rigging the final room to flood. This betrayal underscores Hoffman's hypocrisy-he preaches Jigsaw's teachings but doesn't truly believe in redemption. The sole survivor, Mallick, is framed for the murders, further showcasing Hoffman's skill at manipulation. The parallel editing between Hoffman's escape and the strangers' deaths reinforces the theme of duality, contrasting Jigsaw's idealistic vision with Hoffman's pragmatic brutality.
Unresolved Questions and Possible Answers:
1. Did Jigsaw truly trust Hoffman, or was he just using him?
- Possible Answer: Jigsaw likely saw Hoffman as a tool rather than a true successor, given Hoffman's lack of empathy.
- Possible Answer: Hoffman's survival of the pendulum trap may have been Jigsaw's way of testing his resolve.
Why did Hoffman kill the five strangers despite their cooperation?
- Possible Answer: Hoffman wanted to tie up loose ends and eliminate witnesses.
- Possible Answer: He never believed in Jigsaw's redemption philosophy and used the games as a cover for his own vendettas.
What happened to Mallick after being framed?
- Possible Answer: He likely became a scapegoat, as Hoffman's pattern of framing others continues in later films.
- Possible Answer: Mallick's fate is left ambiguous, but he could reappear in future installments.
How does Hoffman's methodology differ from Jigsaw's?
- Possible Answer: Jigsaw gave victims a chance; Hoffman often rigs traps to ensure death.
- Possible Answer: Hoffman lacks the moral justification Jigsaw had, making him more of a traditional villain.
Personal Opinion:
Saw V is often overlooked in the franchise, but its ending is one of the most impactful, cementing Hoffman as a formidable antagonist. The twist of his dual role is executed brilliantly, and the pendulum trap sequence is a standout moment. However, the film suffers from underdeveloped side characters in the "Five Blood Sacrifices" plotline, making their deaths less emotionally resonant. Hoffman's arc is compelling, but his lack of moral complexity compared to Jigsaw makes him a less interesting figure. Overall, the ending elevates the film by setting up future conflicts, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of earlier Saw installments in terms of thematic depth.
Final Thoughts:
The ending of Saw V is a pivotal moment in the franchise, transitioning the focus from Jigsaw to Hoffman as the new mastermind. It's a satisfying payoff for fans who enjoy the series' intricate lore, though it may feel convoluted to casual viewers. The film's strength lies in its tension and reveals, but its weaker character development holds it back from being a true standout. Regardless, Hoffman's emergence as a villain sets the stage for the darker, more chaotic games of Saw VI and VII, making Saw V an essential bridge in the series' narrative.