DATE: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2026
★ SPECIAL PRINT EDITION ★
SECTION: MOVIE REVIEW
Haiwaan Movie Review: Priyadarshan Strikes a Fine Balance of Drama and High-Spirited Humor
A gripping but flawed thriller that's sure to resonate with fans of crime dramas.

Haiwaan Movie Review: Priyadarshan Strikes a Fine Balance of Drama and High-Spirited Humor

A gripping but flawed thriller that's sure to resonate with fans of crime dramas.

Nov 06, 2026 - 10:08
Haiwaan Movie Review: Priyadarshan Strikes a Fine Balance of Drama and High-Spirited Humor
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SeenTick Critique • 2026 • Cinema
3.5 /5.0
Solid Entertainer
CRITIC VERDICT
"A gripping but flawed thriller that's sure to resonate with fans of crime dramas."
HIGHLIGHTS
  • Thought-provoking themes
  • Strong performances
  • Tense, unsettling atmosphere
CONSIDERATIONS
  • Pacing issues in the second act
  • Some plot twists feel contrived

Priyadarshan's Haiwaan is a masterclass in tension, a cinematic experience that's both unsettling and thought-provoking. The film's dystopian world, where the lines between justice and vigilantism are perpetually blurred, is a commentary on our society's darkest tendencies. Saif Ali Khan shines as a retired judge, whose struggle to protect his daughter from a convict he imprisoned is both heartbreaking and infuriating.

Inside the Judge's Turbulent Mind: A Descent into Desperation

Saif Ali Khan delivers a nuanced performance, bringing depth to a character who's both flawed and relatable. His portrayal of a man, driven by a sense of duty and responsibility, is a powerful exploration of the human condition. As the story unfolds, his character's desperation gives way to a toxic obsession, making him a complex and compelling protagonist.

Read More: Ramayana: Rise of a Legend Movie Review: Our Truth. Our History

The Unyielding Guardian: A Blind Man's Unshakeable Loyalty

Akshay Kumar, in a rare dramatic turn, brings a sense of gravitas to his role as a man with visual impairment, who's fiercely loyal to the judge. His character's unwavering commitment to justice is a testament to the power of human spirit, even in the face of adversity. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their unlikely partnership a highlight of the film.

The Unraveling of Order: A Pacing Problem in the Second Act

While the film's first half is a masterclass in tension, the pacing falters in the second act. The narrative, which had been building towards a thrilling conclusion, meanders through a series of convoluted plot twists. The visuals, which had been a standout element of the film, are occasionally marred by a bloated runtime.

Also Read: Verity Movie Review: A decent but flawed thriller that fails to live up to its full potential

SeenTick Film Critique Verdict

A gripping but flawed thriller that's sure to resonate with fans of crime dramas.

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Movies, series, and everything happening around Indian entertainment keep me busy. I cover OTT releases, box-office conversations, celebrity news, and the changing world of streaming, with a particular interest in the stories and trends that audiences are talking about right now.

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