Haiwaan: Priyadarshan unites Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar in Oppam remake; here's what the filmmaker has to say

The upcoming film Haiwaan directed by Priyadarshan would feature Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar working together for the first time. The film is a Hindi remake of the 2016 thriller Oppam, featuring the Dadasaheb Phalke recipient in the leading role and helmed by the same filmmaker. After their last onscreen appearance in Tashan, this production finally brings Akshay and Saif Ali Khan back together.

Casting challenges

Priyadarshan discussed the casting challenges of his antagonist character against Saif in an interview with Pinkvilla. The filmmaker stated, "Originally, Akshay was not there in the film. I was planning to do the film with Saif, and he got excited about the subject. We tried some other actors also, but everyone kept saying no because it was a small part. They kept asking for things to be changed. When I was shooting for Bhoot Bangla, I told Akshay that I don’t think Haiwaan will happen because I am not getting the right person to play the other role, but the role is as important as the hero. Akshay asked what the role was about, and I never thought he would agree, but he asked if he could do the role. I just asked him, ‘Are you serious?’ Akshay replied, 'Yes, I like the thought and I trust you.'"

Priyadarshan also mentioned Akshay's involvement in the production. The filmmakers were thrilled to have him join the cast, as it made the film more ambitious. The filmmaker went on to say, "Akshay is the antagonist, and he never hesitates. There are two actors – Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar, whom I have worked with the most, and they both never ask me what I am doing. The moment I go to them with a film, they ask, 'Are you excited?' And say yes. That trust they have, and I like to maintain it by delivering."

ALSO READ: Haiwaan: Shriya Pilgaonkar joins Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in Priyadarshan’s thriller

Mohanlal's role remains a secret

Priyadarshan kept Mohanlal's role a secret, but Akshay's has been public knowledge. "Mohanlal is there in Haiwaan, but what he is doing, I don't want to say now," he stated.

The filmmaker stressed his casting philosophy, which put the screenplay ahead of star power. He also said, "Every time the film excites me, I don’t think of the actors; the actor comes after the script, so you can never plan. You cannot say you will make a film with Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar together; you will never get a script. When you get a script, see who the right cast is and go behind that; that is the right way of doing films. Never chase a star for doing a film."

Ensemble cast and release details

With an ensemble cast that includes Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Asrani, Samuthirakani, and Einar Haraldsson, Haiwaan is set to release in 2026. Fans are getting more and more excited for the film thanks to Priyadarshan's direction and the talented cast.

FAQs:

Q: Who is starring in Priyadarshan’s film Haiwaan?

A: Haiwaan features Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan, Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Asrani, Samuthirakani, and Einar Haraldsson.

Q: What role is Akshay Kumar playing in Haiwaan?

A: Akshay Kumar plays the antagonist in Haiwaan, a role that many actors had initially declined.

Q: When is Haiwaan releasing?

A: Haiwaan is slated for release in 2026.