The psychological thriller Haiwaan, starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, hit theatres on Friday to polarized reactions from opening-day audiences, sparking intense online debate over its execution and script choices. Directed by Priyadarshan, the film marks the long-awaited on-screen reunion of Akshay and Saif and serves as the official Hindi remake of the 2016 Malayalam hit Oppam, featuring Saif in the role of a visually impaired man tasked with protecting a child from a dangerous killer. While critical viewers on social media labeled the movie a “disaster on arrival” and criticized Akshay for accepting another remake project, others defended the film, praising its execution and calling it an “amazing blockbuster.” Key highlights among positive reviews included Saif’s impressive lead performance and Akshay’s compelling turn as the antagonist, with several fans describing the overall experience as solid entertainment. Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn under KVN Productions and Thespian Films, Haiwaan also features a strong ensemble cast including Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Rajpal Yadav, Sharib Hashmi, and the late Asrani.
