Saif Ali Khan on Priyadarshan’s ‘Haiwaan’ with ‘Big Brother’ Akshay Kumar won’t be another ‘Main Khiladi Tu Anari’: ‘This film doesn’t depend on that comedic chemistry’
After entertaining audiences together in comedy classics, Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar are all set to reunite on screen in Priyadarshan’s upcoming thriller ‘Haiwaan’. The film is scheduled to hit theaters on September 11, and promises to showcase the duo in a whole new light.
Speaking about working with Akshay again, Saif described the superstar as family and admitted that their latest collaboration explores a much darker space than their previous outings.
Saif is excited to see Akshay Kumar in a negative role
Over the years, Saif and Akshay have shared chemistry in films like ‘Yeh Dillagi’, ‘Main Khiladi Tu Anari’ and ‘Tu Chor Main Sipahi’. However, “Haiwaan” takes the actors away from comedy and places them in an intense dramatic setting.Speaking to Variety India about Akshay’s character, Saif said, “We are very lucky that he has this role in the film. He made it more interesting because it is a dangerous and negative role, and I have not seen him do that very often. I am very excited to see him.”Reflecting on the friendship spanning over three decades, Saif spoke warmly about the bond he shares with Akshay. According to the actor, their long association has created a mutual respect and easy chemistry, something that translates naturally on screen.
Expressing his admiration, Saif said, “I love Akshay. He is like a big brother to me. We have seen each other before. We go way back. There is a special respect for someone who has served as long as he has. We have been through a lot together. We have always had great chemistry.”
Priyadarshan often had to calm the duo down during the shoot
Although ‘Haiwaan’ is a serious thriller, Saif admitted that he and Akshay couldn’t resist joking around when the cameras stopped rolling.
Their hilarious antics often required a comic rebuke from director Priyadarshan.Recalling those moments, Saif said, “Bryan sir ignores us a little bit. He says, ‘You are acting like frat kids.’ Akshay says, ‘He brings it out in me.’ I tell him, ‘Bring this out in me.’ We have been talking trash ever since we met on the set. When we are alone, we are a little more mature. But together…” Saif said, recalling those moments.
“Haiwaan” leaves the comedy behind
Fans have long bonded over their comedic timing, but Saif explained that “Haiwaan” intentionally avoids relying on that familiar dynamic.
Instead, the film explores a darker relationship between the two characters. “This movie doesn’t rely on that comedic chemistry, which is also good because I think its time has come,” he said, explaining the shift. Meanwhile, Saif does not rule out another comedy with Akshay in the future.
He added: “Who can say we won’t do it again if it’s well written?”The actor summed up the tone of the film by saying, “It’s interesting that this is a darker, more dramatic equation. It’s not just masti and banter. It’s a completely different space.”With ‘Haiwaan’, Priyadarshan brings together two beloved co-stars once again, but this time in a thriller that promises to showcase a completely different side of their partnership on screen.