The highly anticipated film Jewel Thief, starring Saif Ali Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat, has finally hit the screens, but it has received a mixed bag of reviews from audiences and critics alike. Directed by Kookie Gulati and Robbie Grewal, this heist thriller revolves around a conman, Rehan Roy, who attempts to steal the elusive Red Sun diamond, one of the rarest gems in the world.
In the film, Rehan Roy, played by Saif Ali Khan, finds himself in a precarious situation when he becomes romantically involved with Farah (Nikita Dutta), the wife of the menacing crime lord Rajan Aulakh (Jaideep Ahlawat). Rajan threatens Rehan’s family, setting the stage for a high-stakes game of deception and betrayal. The film escalates quickly as Rehan not only has to execute the heist from one of the world’s most secure museums but also evade the relentless pursuit of Vikram Patel (Kunal Kapoor), a determined cop on his trail.
Despite the thrilling premise, the film has come under scrutiny for its execution. Critics have pointed out that while the film checks off the classic heist caper boxes, it often veers into familiar tropes, including the hapless love interest and the estranged family dynamic. Some reviews describe the plot as “trite” and “forgettable,” with one critic noting that even Jaideep Ahlawat, who has garnered acclaim for his performance, could not salvage the film from its shortcomings.
On April 25, 2025, Jewel Thief was released on OTT platforms, marking Saif Ali Khan's comeback after a serious incident in which he was stabbed during a robbery at his home in Bandra. The film's initial reception has been lukewarm, with audiences expressing mixed feelings. Some viewers found the film engaging, praising its twists and turns, while others criticized it for failing to leave a lasting impression.
Social media reactions have reflected this divide. One viewer tweeted, “#JewelThief is a fun-filled heist film which works very well especially because of the twists and turns in the second half. #SaifAliKhan is brilliant in the lead role.” In contrast, another wrote, “JEWEL THIEF ⭐⭐ Can we start by this, WHY? @NetflixIndia had Saif Ali Khan along with Jaideep Ahlawat, both of them are talented enough to carry movies on their own. But boy this movie started nose diving just after this Red Sun shit whispered from start.”
Critics have also pointed out several plot holes and unconvincing moments. For example, the hinted history between Rajan and the shadowy overlord Moosa (Dorendra Singh Loitongbam) is introduced but not fully explored, leaving audiences wanting more depth. The character of Rehan’s aide, Nikki Taneja (Meenal Sahu), also lacks a backstory, making her presence feel superfluous.
Despite its flaws, the film has been noted for its production quality. Jishnu Bhattacharjee’s cinematography delivers a high-gloss look that enhances the film's visual appeal. The action sequences, particularly those involving the heist preparations and aerial drama, have been executed with finesse, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Saif Ali Khan’s portrayal of Rehan Roy has been a highlight for many. His ability to embody the slick con artist, complete with sleight-of-hand tricks and emotionally charged scenes with his estranged father, Dr. Jayant Roy (Kulbhushan Kharbanda), showcases his range as an actor. As for Jaideep Ahlawat, his performance as the menacing villain has been described as chilling, effectively sending shivers down the audience's spine even during moments of silence.
The supporting cast, including Kunal Kapoor and Nikita Dutta, has also received commendations for their performances. However, the film’s reliance on familiar heist tropes has left some viewers feeling that it lacks originality. One reviewer commented, “Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins is a forgettable mix of clichés thieves, cops, and fake diamonds.”
As the film continues to stream on Netflix, audiences are encouraged to form their own opinions. While some viewers are enamored with the film’s stylish execution and thrilling confrontations, others argue that it fails to deliver a compelling narrative. The juxtaposition of high-stakes drama and character development has left many wanting more depth and resolution.
In summary, Jewel Thief stands as a testament to the challenges of crafting a successful heist film. With a blend of action, romance, and crime, it offers entertainment but also highlights the pitfalls of relying too heavily on genre conventions. As the film garners more attention on social media, it remains to be seen whether it will find a lasting place in the hearts of viewers or fade into the annals of forgettable cinema.
