The film 'Haiwaan,' a new thriller directed by Priyadarshan and featuring Saif Ali Khan, has been released to critical scrutiny. In a recent review, The Hindu expressed disappointment with the project, suggesting that the final product feels 'defanged' compared to the director's established reputation for suspense and tension.

The review highlights that Saif Ali Khan’s performance appears to be a labor-intensive effort, implying that the actor struggled to elevate the material provided by the script. Priyadarshan, known for his diverse filmography ranging from high-stakes thrillers to comedies, is criticized here for failing to deliver a compelling narrative in this specific outing. The critique suggests that the film lacks the necessary bite or intensity required for a successful thriller, leaving the audience with a product that feels somewhat hollow or sanitized.

While the review focuses on the creative shortcomings of the film, it does not detail the plot specifics or the supporting cast's contributions. The assessment serves as a cautionary note for viewers expecting the high-caliber suspense often associated with the director's past successes. As of now, the critical consensus remains limited, with this initial review setting a tone of underwhelmed expectation regarding the film's execution and overall narrative effectiveness.