Jason On Hold. Saw Sets A Date.

Yes, Virginia, there is a force out there that can stop the indomitable Jason Voorhees and finally pin down the elusive Jigsaw killer: their respective studios.

According to Box Office Mojo, Platinum Dunes has put the hockey mask back into mothballs as the proposed release date of August 2012 has been downgraded to a TBD. In addition, the gentle people at ShockTilYouDrop.com report that producer Brad Fuller has repeatedly said a 3-D sequel to the recent reboot had not been greenlit. It looks like we know now for sure. Of course, expect Jason to pop up when he’s least expected.

On the opposite side of the release coin, Lionsgate has announced that the supposedly penultimate installment in their previously perceived juggernaut franchise, “Saw VII in 3-D”, will be released on October 22. “Saw V” helmer David Hackl is returning to put victims through their paces. An odd choice to me since “Saw V” was the weakest of the series in a franchise that is already starting to wear a little thin with audiences. Will another upstart, like “Paranormal Activity” floor it again? Will he pull the franchise up by its boot straps or will he “Schumacher” it and be the man who finally kills Jigsaw? We’ll find out October 22.