Saif Ali Khan is set to explore an all-new side on the big screen, with his role in ’Haiwaan’. The Priyadarshan-directed film will see the star reuniting with Akshay Kumar for what he considers, one of his most exciting roles yet.Shedding light on his new role, Saif shared that he will play an Indian version of a blind samurai. Though visually challenged, the character is specially-abled, capable of sensing things, fighting, catching a ball, and protecting a young girl. Saif found it fascinating to work out the physicality of the role without letting it feel exaggerated.
Saif Ali Khan on working with director Priyadarshan
In conversation with Variety India, Khan said, “It was something completely new for me. More importantly, it’s a character written for the audience to genuinely feel for, which I haven’t really had much of, for whatever reason. I’m really happy I got this role. Working with Priyadarshan sir was amazing. It reminded me of Clint Eastwood. Very economical and absolutely sure of what he wanted. We rarely did more than one take. I like doing a few takes, but you adapt to whoever you’re working with. It was interesting to be completely ready for that very first take, and somehow it really worked.”
Saif Ali Khan on his bond with Akshay Kumar
Khan also reunites with Akshay Kumar in ‘Haiwaan’, having earlier worked with him in films like ‘Yeh Dillagi’ (1994), ‘Main Khiladi Tu Anari’ (1994), ‘Keemat’ (1998), ‘Aarzoo’ (1999) and ‘Tashan’ (2008). This time, though, Khan says Kumar’s role adds a new twist to their on-screen chemistry. “It’s great that he’s playing this part in this movie. It has made it more exciting… in a kind of dangerous, negative role. I haven’t seen him do that very often. In the past, we’ve had great chemistry. I love Akshay… he’s like an elder brother to me. We have a very special bond because we’ve seen each other from before day one. We go all the way back. While shooting the film, Priyan sir would say, ‘You are behaving like naughty children.’ Akshay said, ‘I don’t know, he brings that out in me,’ and I said, ‘You’ve been talking rubbish.’ When we’re solo, we’re a bit more mature, I think.”
Saif Ali Khan on the new on-screen dynamic in ‘Haiwaan’
Their off-screen bond may remain the same, but ‘Haiwaan’ brings a fresh dimension to their on-screen dynamic. Khan shares, “This film doesn’t rely on that kind of chemistry and comedy, which is also good because I think that’s had its time and it’s not the make-or-break. This role is a dream for me. I can’t wait to see how it comes out.”
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