Netflix's new release ‘Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins’ promised an exciting addition to the heist genre but delivers a disappointing experience that fails to sparkle. Despite featuring talented actors like Saif Ali Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat, this film directed by Robbie Grewal and Kookie Gulati proves that star power alone cannot salvage a weak script and uninspired execution.
No Stakes, No Tension, No Logic
The film follows con artist Rehan Roy (Saif Ali Khan) as he plans an elaborate diamond heist while trying to outsmart his sadistic adversary Rajan Aulakh (Jaideep Ahlawat). However, this premise quickly devolves into the same tired cop-thief-mafia triangle we've seen countless times before. Rather than offering fresh perspectives on the heist genre, ‘Jewel Thief’ feels like a rejected first draft of ‘Race 4,’ borrowing heavily from both the ‘Race’ franchise and ‘Dhoom’ series without capturing what made those films entertaining.
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The robbery sequences themselves lack tension, with supposedly cutting-edge security systems presenting no real challenge to the protagonist. Everything unfolds according to plan, eliminating the suspense that makes heist films thrilling.
Saif Ali Khan - Jaideep Ahlawat Deserved Better
Saif Ali Khan brings glimpses of his ‘Race’ persona Rajvir Singh but remains largely one-dimensional throughout. His character is introduced as the "biggest jewel thief ever" with three cops on his trail, yet we learn little about his backstory or motivations.
Even more disappointing is how the film wastes Jaideep Ahlawat's considerable talent. Despite delivering a solid performance, his character Rajan Aulakh is reduced to a generic villain with no depth or compelling backstory. Several viewers have noted the film might have been more interesting had the actors swapped roles.
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Supporting Cast? Doesn’t Support Anything
Supporting characters fare even worse. Nikita Dutta as Farah (Rajan's girlfriend) and Kunal Kapoor as STF cop Vikram Patel contribute little to the narrative. Their storylines could have been removed entirely to create a tighter, more focused film.
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A Heist Thriller That Steals Your Time, Not Your Heart
Despite a relatively short runtime of 85 minutes, ‘Jewel Thief’ somehow manages to feel twice as long. The plot meanders through predictable twists and turns while failing to build genuine momentum. Technical elements like cinematography and action sequences lack the stylish execution needed for a modern heist thriller.
The film's conclusion audaciously sets up a potential sequel with "the heist continues," showing remarkable confidence given the quality of this initial offering.
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Only One Redeemable Thing: The Song
If there's anything worth praising, it's the end credits song ‘Jaadu,’ which many viewers have singled out as the film's high point.
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‘Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins’ ultimately robs viewers of logic, patience, and hope for a coherent plot. Despite an interesting premise and talented cast, it fails to deliver on its promise, making it a film worth skipping in favour of better entries in the genre.
If you really want to watch ‘Jewel Thief’, revisit the original 1967 film by Vijay Anand starring Dev Anand. It had style, smarts, and soul—everything this 2025 version desperately lacks.
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