Director Priyadarshan and Saif Ali Khan are working together for the first time in Haiwaan, and the filmmaker has shared some interesting details about his experience with the actor. The upcoming film also stars Akshay Kumar in a negative role and has already created curiosity with its teaser. The teaser revealed that Saif will play a visually challenged character, while Akshay appears in a dark and unexpected role. The makers have kept most details of the story secret, but Priyadarshan’s comments about Saif have now given fans a glimpse into what it was like to work with him.
Speaking about Saif, Priyadarshan described him as a mature actor who is willing to listen and follow the director once his questions are answered. According to the filmmaker, Saif had several questions during the first few days of shooting. Priyadarshan said that this was not a problem because actors have every right to understand what they are doing. However, once Saif understood the director’s vision, he stopped questioning every decision and simply followed his instructions.
Priyadarshan recalled that after a couple of days, he even asked Saif if he had any questions. Saif reportedly replied that he now understood what the director wanted to shoot. For Priyadarshan, this helped create trust between them and made the shooting process much smoother. He also praised Saif for being highly committed to his work.
One thing that particularly surprised Priyadarshan was Saif’s habit between shots. Instead of spending his free time on his phone, Saif would read books. The director said he soon realised that Saif is a passionate reader and has a lot of knowledge about different subjects. This gave the two of them plenty to talk about during the shoot.
Priyadarshan also revealed that his interest in former Indian cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi gave him another reason to connect with Saif. He said they spent considerable time talking, and Saif even gifted him a book containing Pataudi’s autograph. The director jokingly described Saif as a little greedy but also a very obedient actor, highlighting how seriously he followed his instructions once he understood the character and scenes.
According to Priyadarshan, their professional relationship gradually turned into a strong bond. He believes Saif developed confidence in him as a director, which helped them work together comfortably and move the film forward without major difficulties.
Haiwaan marks Priyadarshan and Saif Ali Khan’s first collaboration. The film also features Akshay Kumar and is scheduled to release in theatres on September 11.