Producer Shailaja Desai Fenn Discusses Haiwaan, Casting, and Filming Challenges
Shailaja Desai Fenn, one of the producers of the upcoming film Haiwaan, has shared details regarding the project’s background, production challenges, and creative direction ahead of its scheduled release on Friday, September 11.
What Happened
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, producer Shailaja Desai Fenn discussed the making of Haiwaan, directed by Priyadarshan. She explained that while the project is framed as a thriller, it also incorporates elements typical of Priyadarshan’s cinematic style, such as emotion and humour, making it a family entertainer.
Fenn, who runs Thespian Films alongside her husband Satish Fenn, revealed that the project originated in 2024 during the shoot of a Kalyan Jewellers advertisement directed by Priyadarshan. The director expressed interest in making the feature film, leading to a collaboration where KVN Productions joined as the studio, followed by the casting of Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan. She also noted that actor Boman Irani, whom she has managed since 2005, agreed to join the cast when approached.
Key Highlights
- Film Release: Haiwaan is slated to release on Friday, September 11.
- Creative Tone: The film blends thriller components with humor and emotional storytelling suited for family audiences.
- Cast Roles and Performances: Saif Ali Khan portrays a blind character for the first time in his career, while Akshay Kumar was praised for his professional discipline and punctuality. Boman Irani also features in the cast.
- Complex Production Sequences: A major sequence was filmed in heavily crowded South Mumbai locations, specifically Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Churchgate, featuring rain machines, 500 extras, and the two lead actors.
- Production Background: The Fenns, who have over two decades of industry experience in talent management and ad production, previously produced the Malayalam film Balan: The Boy earlier this year.
- Approach to Film Budgets: Regarding production costs and entourages, Fenn remarked that every film has different financial capabilities and that productions must operate within what they can afford.
Why This Matters
The project marks a major cinematic collaboration bringing together director Priyadarshan with lead actors Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan under the banner of Thespian Films and KVN Productions. The production details also outline the logistical efforts required to shoot large-scale sequences in crowded transit hubs such as Churchgate and CSMT.
What to Watch Next
Audiences can look forward to the theatrical release of Haiwaan on Friday, September 11, following the promotional rollout and trailer release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the movie Haiwaan?
The film is directed by Priyadarshan.
Who are the lead actors in Haiwaan?
The movie features Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in leading roles, alongside Boman Irani.
What character does Saif Ali Khan play in the film?
According to producer Shailaja Desai Fenn, Saif Ali Khan portrays a blind man, marking the first time he has taken on such a role.
Source: Based on an interview reported by Bollywood Hungama.