Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar to reunite after 17 years for Priyadarshanâs next thriller

Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar are reuniting on the big screen after almost 2 decades, and it’s safe to say the excitement is off the charts. The two actors, who’ve delivered some memorable films together in the past, are teaming up for Priyadarshan’s next directorial, which is reportedly a Hindi remake of the Malayalam thriller Oppam, originally starring Mohanlal. The buzz is that it’s going to be a full-on two-hero thriller, with both actors having equally meaty roles. The moment news of their reunion surfaced, fans were quick to express their thrill—it’s not every day you see two power-packed stars like them coming together after such a long break.

Saif Ali Khan


The last time we saw Akshay and Saif together was in the 2008 film Tashan, which, despite being a mixed bag at the box office, has become something of a cult classic over time. But their on-screen history goes way beyond that. They were one of the most loved duos back in the ’90s, with hits like Main Khiladi Tu Anari, Yeh Dillagi, Tu Chor Main Sipahi, and Keemat. Their chemistry—be it in action-packed dramas or light-hearted entertainers—always clicked with the audience, and that’s what makes this reunion even more special. Now, after all these years, watching them come together in a thriller format feels like the perfect twist to their journey.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar seems to be on a roll when it comes to collaborations with Priyadarshan. The actor is currently shooting for another film with the director titled Bhoot Bangla, which marks their reunion after 14 long years. Their partnership has given Bollywood some timeless comedies like Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Garam Masala, and it looks like they’re ready to recreate that magic. Not just that—Akshay and Priyadarshan are also coming together once again for Hera Pheri 3, which fans have been eagerly waiting for ever since the sequel left things open-ended.

Saif Ali Khan

Coming back to the remake of Oppam, the film is expected to begin shooting in August 2025, and the team is aiming for a start-to-finish schedule. If everything goes as planned, it should hit theatres in the second half of 2026. With Priyadarshan at the helm and two of Bollywood’s most versatile actors leading the story, this one is shaping up to be something truly exciting. As fans, we’ve seen Akshay and Saif shine individually across genres—but seeing them back together, especially in a gripping thriller, feels like a throwback and a fresh take rolled into one. Safe to say, this is going to be one of the most anticipated films of the coming year.

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