Haiwaan review: Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar can’t match Oppam’s grit as glossy remake stumbles before late surge

Dubai: Mohanlal is a towering figure in South Indian cinema, and it is unfair to expect any actor, even one as accomplished as Saif Ali Khan, to simply take on his role. However, comparisons are inevitable when watching the glossy remake Haiwaan after experiencing the original Oppam, directed by Lalettan.

One of the most jarring aspects of Haiwaan is Saif Ali Khan's portrayal of a differently-abled martial arts trainer and musician. While the singing and dancing scenes are visually impressive, they feel out of place for the character we've been introduced to. Additionally, Saif's immaculate and expensive wardrobe clashes with the character's modest background, making his economic reality seem unfounded.

The film struggles to find its footing, spending an excessive amount of time on setup before finally delivering on its promise of a thriller. It isn't until the second half, featuring Akshay Kumar as a menacing and almost bestial character, that the movie truly comes alive. The tone shifts can feel calculated, with the film attempting to balance thrills, humor, action, and emotional depth.

While the action sequences are engaging and give the film some much-needed momentum, the first half feels overly long and the supporting characters are underdeveloped. Shriya Pilgaonkar's role as a domestic violence survivor and Saiyami Kher's cop lack emotional depth, and Akshay Kumar's tragic backstory, although well-intentioned, doesn't resonate as strongly as it could.

Despite these flaws, Haiwaan does have moments of brilliance. Saif Ali Khan's stillness and physical performance in key scenes are genuinely impressive, particularly in conveying the challenges of navigating the world without sight. The climax, which pays homage to the original Oppam, is a delightful surprise for audiences familiar with the source material.

However, by the time these elements arrive, the film's tonal inconsistencies may have already overshadowed the intended impact. Overall, Haiwaan is an entertaining watch, but it could have benefited from tighter direction, better-written supporting characters, and a more seamless transition from setup to the thrilling second half.