Lionsgate announced today that "Saw 2" and "Saw 3" director Darren Lynn Bousman will be back to direct "Saw IV," which is targeted for a October 26, 2007 release.

Production offices opened February 12th in Toronto to begin pre-production on "Saw IV." Twisted Pictures’ Burg and Koules are again producing, and Executive Producers Daniel Jason Heffner, James Wan, Leigh Whannell, and Stacey Testro also return.  Executive producing for Lionsgate are Block and Constantine.  Key contributors of the first three films returning include Editor Kevin Greutert, Director of Photography David Armstrong and Production Designer David Hackl.  "Saw IV" is slated to begin shooting April 16 for six weeks and will be released domestically and internationally October 26, 2007.
 
Said Block, “Having Darren behind the camera gives 'Saw IV'a real edge, so to speak.  He has led this franchise into box office history while proving himself a modern master of psychological terror.”
 
Burg and Koules of Twisted Pictures remarked, “It’s great to have the SAW creative team back together for 'Saw IV.'  We’re looking forward to working with Darren, Lionsgate and all the Twisted minds to bring horror fans more of Jigsaw’s gore and games.”
 
Added Bousman, “It’s not often that a filmmaker is given the opportunity to follow a genuinely compelling character through two films, much less three.  So I’m very excited about picking up the reins on 'Saw IV,' and delving even deeper into the Jigsaw legend.”