Kartavya Review: Saif Ali Khan Steals the Show in a Story That Almost Unravels

May 16, 2026 user

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Saif Ali Khan returns to the screen as SHO Pawan in Netflix’s latest crime drama Kartavya, delivering a performance that fixes every narrative hiccup—well, almost. Directed by Pulkit, this film sets out to tackle caste-based violence and systemic rot but ends up feeling like two separate films awkwardly stitched together. Despite its flaws, Saif’s understated intensity makes it worth a watch.

Plot That Promises More Than It Delivers

Set in the fictional town of Jhamli, Kartavya examines two parallel sagas. First, SHO Pawan (Saif Ali Khan) battles internal conflicts as he enforces a rotten system poisoned by caste prejudice and power-hungry figures. Second, we follow ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances that test their conscience and survival instincts. Both arcs have potential, but the film struggles to weave them into a seamless narrative.

Saif Ali Khan: The Film’s Beating Heart

Here’s the saving grace: Saif Ali Khan. Far from the larger-than-life cop trope, his Pawan is a worn-out man whose rage simmers beneath calm composure. With minimal dialogue and no dramatic outbursts, he conveys deep moral exhaustion. Every glance, every pause speaks volumes—reminding us why Saif has grown into one of India’s finest actors.

Supporting Cast Highlights

Sanjay Mishra lends authenticity as Pawan’s mentor, grounding the film’s moral dilemmas. Rasika Duggal’s limited screen time still packs an emotional punch, and Zakir Khan keeps the suspense alive. Saurabh Dwivedi shows promise but gets lost in the overcrowded storyline.

Direction and Screenplay: Ambitious but Uneven

Pulkit demonstrates a strong visual sense: lingering silences, tense close-ups, and stark landscapes all hint at a bolder film. Yet, the screenplay tries to juggle too many themes—investigative thriller, social realism, psychological drama—without solid transitions. The result? Moments of brilliance overshadowed by pacing issues and narrative clutter.

Final Verdict

Kartavya earns its stripes thanks to Saif Ali Khan’s magnetic screen presence. Sadly, its overambitious structure keeps it from becoming the powerhouse it could have been. If you’re here for Saif’s masterclass in subtle acting and don’t mind some storytelling rough edges, Kartavya is still worth your time.

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