The much-awaited trailer of Haiwaan was released on August 25, 2026, bringing Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan together for a dark psychological thriller directed by Priyadarshan. The trailer sets up an intense cat-and-mouse confrontation, with Akshay appearing as a ruthless killer while Saif plays a visually impaired man drawn into a deadly battle of survival and mind games.
Akshay Kumar Takes a Dark Turn
One of the trailer’s biggest talking points is Akshay Kumar’s menacing transformation. Rather than playing his familiar action-hero role, the actor portrays the film’s dangerous antagonist, pursuing Saif’s character and those around him.
Saif, meanwhile, plays a visually impaired protagonist who becomes the protector of a young girl while attempting to outwit Akshay’s character. The trailer combines murder, suspense and psychological manipulation as the two characters move toward an increasingly dangerous confrontation.
Akshay and Saif Reunite After Years
Haiwaan also marks a major on-screen reunion for Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, who last appeared together in a feature film nearly two decades ago. Their return as opposing forces has become a major element of the movie’s promotional campaign.
The supporting cast includes Boman Irani, Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Sharib Hashmi and Rajpal Yadav. Boman Irani appears as a judge, while Saiyami Kher plays a police officer.
‘Haiwaan’ Is Connected to ‘Oppam’
The thriller is based on Priyadarshan’s acclaimed 2016 Malayalam film Oppam. The original starred Mohanlal and revolved around a visually impaired man caught in a murder investigation while trying to protect a young girl. The Hindi adaptation places Akshay and Saif at the centre of its confrontation.
September 11 Theatrical Release
Following the trailer launch, attention now shifts to the film’s theatrical performance. Haiwaan is scheduled to hit cinemas on September 11, 2026.
With Priyadarshan behind the camera, Akshay embracing an unusually sinister character and Saif taking on the demanding role of a visually impaired protagonist, Haiwaan is positioning itself as one of the more distinctive Bollywood thrillers arriving this year.
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