Saw, 2004

I think this is probably the first proper horror I have ever watched. There is absolutely no let up on the scariness throughout the whole film. I actually felt like I'd done a work-out by the time it was over. It's a genius plot and I was completely and utterly terrified for them, and for me! Basically, 2 guys wake up in a revolting old bathroom. Each of them has a tape recorder with a message on how they can survive. They find out that they have to kill the other one or else their loved ones will die. The nut-job behind all this is called Jigsaw and we learn that he likes to play these 'games' with people. He never goes out to kill anyone but prefers to make them kill themselves or suffer the consequences. If you haven't seen this already, and you like to be really scared, then get your skates on and watch this film.

SECOND OPINION: Saw was probably the film that re-lit the fire in me for horror. Just the fact that Carry Elwes and Danny Glover were appearing in a horror film made me sit up and listen. It's perfectly paced, beautifully written and utterly original. As for the title 'Saw', well for the newcomer's out there, don't be put off. Unlike the sequels, this film keeps the horror in your head, not on the screen.