After months of anticipation, Haiwaan has finally hit the screens, bringing together two of Bollywood's biggest box office draws in what was positioned as a high-octane crime thriller. Unfortunately, the film arrives with a bold concept but falters significantly in execution, suffering from a pacing problem that drains much of its thrill well before the final act.
Akshay Kumar, who produces the film alongside Ajay Kapoor under their Green Gold banner, delivers a restrained performance as the eponymous anti-hero — a character who is more menacing in suggestion than in action. Saif Ali Khan, playing an opposing force, brings his characteristic intensity to the role, yet even his screen presence cannot compensate for the screenplay's uneven rhythm.
Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, whose previous work stirred controversy and conversation alike, Haiwaan attempts a gritty, raw portrayal of violence and revenge set against an urban backdrop. The first half drags considerably, with scenes that feel padded and dialogue that repeats points already made. The second half picks up marginally, but by then the audience has already lost momentum — the suspense that should have been building from the opening frames instead sputters out.
The technical aspects, including the background score and editing, do not help matters. The music fails to elevate key sequences, while the editing cuts leave emotional beats landing awkwardly. Several action sequences show promise on paper but lack the choreographic sharpness needed to make them memorable.
Critics are divided on whether this is a misfire from a capable filmmaker or simply a project that overestimated its own gravity. One thing is clear: Haiwaan had the ingredients for a gripping watch, but the final product feels stretched thin, leaving viewers wanting more from its star power and stronger material.
