Akshay Kumar reveals why Priyadarshan’s ‘Haiwaan’ marks his first truly evil role, calls it his biggest acting challenge: ‘My character has no grey shades, he’s out and out evil’

Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan have built a successful creative partnership over the years, particularly with their comedy films. However, their upcoming collaboration ‘Haiwaan’ marks a significant departure from that familiar territory. The thriller will see Akshay take on a dark and ruthless character, giving audiences a chance to watch him in a completely different avatar. The teaser of the film is set to be unveiled today.

Akshay Kumar steps into darker territory

The actor’s intense appearance in the first look reflects the nature of his character in ‘Haiwaan’. Akshay revealed that the role is not someone who operates in morally grey territory but is genuinely evil.Speaking to Hindustan Times, the actor shared, “As the title goes, I am playing Haiwaan and my character has no grey shades, he’s out and out evil. I always wanted to play a psycho on-screen. With my last four-five films, I have tried to switch between completely different genres: comedy, horror, action, drama. This is my first time playing evil in the truest sense. I like to constantly challenge myself and Haiwaan is that challenge for me.”

Priyadarshan found the right look for Akshay Kumar

Priyadarshan also explained how a seemingly casual styling choice eventually became an important part of Akshay’s appearance in the film. The filmmaker recalled spotting the actor wearing a beanie while they were working on ‘Bhooth Bangla’ and deciding that it would suit his character in ‘Haiwaan’.“I saw Akshay casually wearing the beanie one day at the shoot of Bhooth Bangla, and I immediately liked the look. Him wearing it in Haiwaan was my idea. I remember I was narrating the story of Haiwaan to him one day, knowing he will not do it, and asked who does he think would do the role. I was shocked when he asked me ‘Can I do it?’ I also then thought I would have a different Akshay Kumar in my film, it will be a chance to see an actor’s potential.”

Saif Ali Khan also stars in ‘Haiwaan’

‘Haiwaan’ brings Akshay and Saif Ali Khan together, with Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar also featuring in the cast. The film is scheduled to arrive in theatres on September 11. The project follows Akshay and Priyadarshan’s reunion for the horror-comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’, which released earlier this year. Akshay subsequently featured in ‘Welcome To The Jungle’, adding another successful outing to his recent slate. With ‘Haiwaan’, the actor is now attempting to explore a considerably darker side of his acting range.