Jewel Thief – The Heist Begins, a high-octane crime drama starring Vicky Kaushal and Mrunal Thakur, has captivated audiences worldwide, swiftly climbing to the top of Netflix’s global streaming charts. Since its release in late April 2025, the film has been streamed more than 16.1 million times, making it the most-watched Netflix original film of the year so far.

Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, known for thrillers like Kahaani, the film follows a master jewel thief drawn into an elaborate international heist involving betrayal, cyber-espionage, and a deadly pursuit across continents. The gripping narrative, sleek cinematography, and pulsating score have earned widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike.

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The film’s success is being hailed as a major win for Indian cinema on the global stage, showcasing how regional stories with universal appeal can dominate international platforms. Industry experts have attributed the success to a combination of strategic global marketing, star power, and Netflix's aggressive promotion in key territories including India, the U.S., and the U.K.

Speaking about the film’s achievement, Netflix India’s head of content said: “We knew Jewel Thief had something special. It’s thrilling, stylish, and emotionally engaging—perfect for a global audience.”

The movie has also sparked conversations about a potential sequel or spin-off series, with fans eager to explore more of the film’s universe. Behind-the-scenes interviews, making-of features, and cast Q&As are also in the pipeline to capitalize on its immense popularity.

As the streaming wars intensify, Jewel Thief – The Heist Begins sets a high bar for original content in 2025—and reinforces India’s growing influence in global entertainment.