Actor-producer Kunal Kapoor has finally spoken out following the mixed reactions to his latest project, Jewel Thief. The film, which hit streaming platforms last week, has faced sharp criticism online — with some viewers branding it “style over substance” and others calling the plot “superficial.” But Kapoor isn’t fazed by the backlash.
In a candid interview, Kapoor defended the film’s tone and intention. “Jewel Thief wasn’t supposed to be profound,” he said. “We didn’t set out to make a philosophical or emotionally heavy film. It’s a slick, fast-paced caper — an homage to classic heist thrillers. The goal was always entertainment.”
A Departure from the Norm
Known for his intense roles in films like Rang De Basanti and Dear Vikram, Kunal Kapoor’s involvement in a glossy heist drama surprised many fans. In Jewel Thief, he plays a suave, morally ambiguous art smuggler drawn into a tangled web of lies and betrayal. The film features exotic locales, high-octane chases, and stylish cinematography — elements that Kapoor says were deliberate.
“We wanted it to feel like a graphic novel come to life — something visually rich and immersive. It’s not meant to be dissected in film theory class,” Kapoor added with a laugh.
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Social Media Divided
While the film has found a niche audience who appreciate its stylized approach, online platforms have been abuzz with criticism. Some users slammed the screenplay for lacking emotional depth, while others felt the characters were underdeveloped.
But Kapoor believes these reactions stem from mismatched expectations. “Sometimes people expect every film to carry a message or explore deep human issues. But cinema should also be allowed to just have fun,” he said. “That’s the space Jewel Thief occupies — it’s a thrill ride, not a lecture.”
Support from the Industry
Despite the criticism, several industry insiders have praised Kapoor for backing a bold, genre-driven film. Director Zoya Akhtar called Jewel Thief “refreshing” and “visually daring,” while actor Jim Sarbh tweeted, “A sleek heist flick with swagger. We need more of these.”
Looking Ahead
Kunal Kapoor, who also co-produced the film through his banner Ketto Pictures, has hinted that Jewel Thief might even evolve into a franchise. “There’s definitely room to explore more stories in this universe. If the audience wants it — and I believe many do — we’re open to returning with more.”
For now, Kapoor is content to let Jewel Thief find its audience organically. “You can’t please everyone,” he said. “But if even a fraction of viewers had fun watching it, then I’d say we did what we set out to do.”