Haiwaan movie review: This clash between Akshay and Saif in the movie Haiwaan is a battle of wits rather than visuals; find out how Priyadarshan surprised the audience and where the movie fell short. The mere mention of Priyadarshan, Akshay Kumar, and Saif Ali Khan suggests something big is in store. To top it off, the story features a visually impaired character whose eyes may not see the world, but whose ears, nose, and mind function with remarkable acuity. Then there is Akshay Kumar’s menacing character, Parashuram, consumed by the fire of revenge.
In other words, on one side is a man who cannot see, and on the other, a man who is not easily stopped.
This clash of ‘Haiwaan’ is quite intriguing on paper, and the movie successfully translates that intrigue onto the screen in several places. The only issue is that the movie takes a bit too long to get to its real game.
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What is the movie’s story?
Shyam Rane has been blind since birth. While shouldering family responsibilities, he works in a large building in Mumbai. Although he lacks eyesight, his ability to perceive the world around him through sound, scent, and touch is extraordinary.
On the other side is Parashuram Gokhale. Having emerged from prison, he is fueled by rage, holds old grudges, and is fully prepared for revenge.
A secret involving a young girl enters Shyam’s life, placing him directly in Parashuram’s crosshairs. Thus begins a real cat-and-mouse game: Shyam must evade an enemy he cannot see, while Parashuram must deal with a man who can hear his every move.
The story idea is interesting, and there is significant potential—especially in the way Shyam’s senses are utilised. However, the movie takes a bit too long to get there. The story has substance; the experience would have been twice as enjoyable if the pacing had been a little faster.
How is the acting of the star cast?
Saif Ali Khan looks quite comfortable in the character of Shyam. He did not make the mistake of making the blind character poor. Shyam is calm, responsible and can even be dangerous when needed. Saif’s underplayed acting makes this character believable.
How is the acting of the star cast?
Saif Ali Khan looks quite comfortable in the character of Shyam. He did not make the mistake of making the blind character poor. Shyam is calm, responsible and can even be dangerous when needed. Saif’s underplayed acting makes this character believable.
This role is different for Akshay Kumar. Parashuram does not glow as a hero, but has a strange restlessness and anger. Akshay has played the character with full energy. However, at some points his anger increases so much that instead of creating fear, the scene starts looking a little over-the-top. The Demon ‘Haiwaan’, which should instil fear, does not become that scary every time.
Sharib Hashmi, playing a police officer, offers moments of levity amidst the movie’s tension and is highly entertaining in several scenes. Boman Irani is dependable. Asrani’s presence adds warmth to the movie. Despite being talented actors, Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar have limited screen time. And a glimpse of Mohanlal is a special treat for those who have watched Oppam.
How are the direction and technical aspects?
Priyadarshan, known for comedy, presents a dark thriller here. This new facet of his work is impressive. The effort to build a compelling atmosphere is clearly evident in the movie.
The screenplay’s biggest drawback is its pacing. Certain segments seem to stall the narrative rather than propel it forward; the songs and some protracted emotional sequences disrupt the thriller’s momentum.
The movie becomes more effective when it initiates the face-off between Shyam and Parashuram. Incorporating Shyam’s heightened senses of hearing and smell into the narrative is also an interesting touch.
The cinematography complements the movie’s mood. Mumbai’s high-rises, narrow alleys, and night scenes lend the story a necessary darkness. The camera and sound work in tandem to build atmosphere, particularly during tense sequences.
The background score is another of the movie’s strengths. At times, ambient sounds and silence generate more tension than the music itself—a fitting choice given the nature of Shyam’s character and the story. A bit more ruthlessness at the editing table, however, could have made the movie tighter.
How is the movie’s music?
Pritam’s music complements the movie’s mood, yet there isn’t a single song that lingers in your mind after the movie ends.
“Mere Hero Hain” fits well with the emotional moments, and “Rangiyara” adds a touch of lightness. However, the background score plays a more significant role in the movie than the songs do.
The Impact of ‘Oppam’: An Old Story with a New Twist
‘Haiwaan’ is the Hindi adaptation of Priyadarshan’s Malayalam movie ‘Oppam’. In the original movie, Mohanlal played the role of the visually impaired Shyam. Here, Saif attempts to leave his own mark and succeeds to a significant extent.
The Hindi version features a heavier dose of action, emotion, comedy, and star power. This is what sets it apart from ‘Oppam’, though at times, these added elements also dilute the tightness of the thriller.
Final Verdict: Should you watch the movie?
‘Haiwaan’ has a solid concept, big stars, and Priyadarshan’s distinctive style. The real fun begins when Saif’s calm Shyam and Akshay’s restless Parashuram come face-to-face.
The only issue is that the movie makes the audience wait a bit for the thrill they bought their tickets for.
If you enjoy a blend of masala, emotion, and comedy in a dark thriller, ‘Haiwaan’ won’t disappoint you. However, if you are expecting the movie to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, the pacing does slacken a bit.
All in all, ‘Haiwaan’ certainly has teeth—it’s just that the attack comes a little late.
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