Hold your breath, Bollywood fans—one of the most thrilling partnerships of the decade is finally on! Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan are coming back together after nearly 17 years, and they’re going into the realm of seat-of-the-pants suspense this time, under the masterful guidance of director Priyadarshan. Titled ‘Haiwaan,’ the upcoming thriller promises a cinematic experience packed with intensity, emotion, and gripping drama.
The Return of a Blockbuster Trio
It’s not every day that the industry sees three stalwarts—Akshay, Saif, and Priyadarshan—come together for a film. This reunion is already making waves of enthusiasm throughout the film fraternity and audience in general. The three, with their successful pasts individually, are ready to bring something special.
‘Haiwaan,’ which translates to ‘beast,’ is said to be the title of the film and is said to capture exactly the dark, suspenseful, and intense nature of the narrative. According to a source close to the production, the title was unanimously chosen by the team. “It captures the essence of the film and how Priyadarshan visualizes the narrative as raw, wild, and thrilling. There were a few other contenders, but this one just clicked, especially given the nature of the lead characters.”
A Nail-Biting Remake With a Twist
What makes this project even more fascinating is that ‘Haiwaan’ is the Hindi adaptation of ‘Oppam,’ a critically acclaimed Malayalam thriller released in 2016, also directed by Priyadarshan and starring the legendary Mohanlal. ‘Oppam’ concerns Jayaraman, a blind man with sharp ears and memory, who becomes involved in a murder case. Although disabled, he becomes an unwitting protector of a small girl as he tries to defend his reputation.
Blending psychological suspense and emotional depth, the original film worked for its fresh storytelling, well-written screenplay, and solid performances. With Akshay Kumar joining this high-voltage narrative, fans can expect a meticulous and engaging presentation, while Saif Ali Khan brings in a contrasting but equally dominant presence.
While the producers have decided to keep a veil over the plot of ‘Haiwaan,’ sources confirm that the film will be a two-hero thriller, with both Akshay and Saif finding huge space to showcase their acting skills in a plot that gets high on suspense, confrontation, and gray shades.
Why This Film is Special
Akshay Kumar is reportedly a huge admirer of Oppam, and when Priyadarshan approached him with the script, he was instantly on board. Known for his discipline and quick decision-making, Akshay’s excitement stems from not just the story but also the chance to collaborate with Saif again.
Saif Ali Khan, who has recently experimented with mixed genres, such as the stylish heist thriller Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins, applies his characteristic suave intensity. Akshay, on the other hand, has just finished another film, Bhooth Bangla, also directed by Priyadarshan, making Haiwaan their second back-to-back endeavor.
The three were last seen on screen together during the 2000s, with Saif and Akshay sharing the screen in Tashan (2008), a movie that is recalled for stylish action and sterling performances. Now, after a wait of 17 agonizing years, they are reunited to do it again with more maturity, polished acting skills, and a genre that promises to get the best out of them.
When Do the Cameras Roll?
The movie is likely to go on floors in August 2025, with a start-to-finish shooting schedule on the cards. Going by industry whiffs, the crew is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a large-scale, no-nonsense production and a cinematic experience worth waiting for. If all goes according to plan, the producers are said to be planning a huge theatrical release in 2026.
With fans already buzzing about this action thriller, it looks like Haiwaan isn’t so much a movie as it’s a tempest waiting to unleash itself. Two titanic stars. A visionary director. And a narrative that excavates the darkest depths of the human mind.
What to Expect from ‘Haiwaan’
If Oppam was anything to go by, Haiwaan won’t be merely a thriller; it will be an emotional ride. Look forward to:
· Tense sequences
· Both leads having a complex character arc
· An intriguing plot involving unexpected twists
· A combination of emotional weight and box office feasibility
Priyadarshan is a maestro at layered storytelling, and with the firepower of Akshay and Saif together, Haiwaan can be a milestone thriller movie.
Final Word
The wait is officially on. Be it for Akshay’s high-octane thrills, Saif’s intriguing screen presence, or Priyadarshan’s intricate storytelling, Haiwaan is going to be that elusive cinematic creature that checks all the boxes.
2026 can’t get here soon enough. Start the countdown to beast mode!