Newcomer to oversee 'Saw 2'

Film is being fast-tracked for a May 2 start date so it will be ready to hit theatres on Halloween.

Mar 23 2005

Eagerly anticipated horror sequel 'Saw 2' has finally got a director in the shape of newcomer Darren Lynn Bousman.

The commercials and music-video helmer will make his big screen debut with the pic, which starts principal photography on May 2 in Toronto for a Halloween release.

Bousman wrote the 'Saw 2' screenplay himself, before developing it with the creators of the original, James Wan and Leigh Whannell, both of whom will executive produce. Details of the plot are being kept under wraps however.

Twisted Pictures, the company behind both movies, had this to say on the subject: 'Darren's passion and incredible work on the "Saw 2" script, as well as his strong work in the short film format, convinced us that he was the right person to entrust with our franchise.'

Co-producer Peter Block added: '"Saw" boasted a unique vision and smart storytelling. By teaming again with Leigh and James, and bringing Darren aboard, we are striving to embrace what worked so well in the original, while still providing a fresh look by a filmmaker who was influenced by the risks we took with "Saw".'

'Saw' was the surprise horror hit of last year, grossing more than $80 million worldwide, and Twisted Pictures would doubtless give their right arm (or foot) for the sequel to do similar business.

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