Not a Love Story offers a stark and unflinching narrative that attempts to dissect the psychology behind a brutal crime. The screenplay is tightly woven, maintaining a tense atmosphere throughout, especially in the first half where the buildup of suspense is effective. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold methodically, though some viewers might find the second half slower as it focuses more on the investigation and courtroom drama.

The performances, particularly by Deepak Dobriyal and Mahie Gill, add depth to the characters, making the disturbing story more impactful. The film's music by Dharam Bhatt is minimalistic, with the background score complementing the grim tone without overpowering the scenes. There are no typical Bollywood songs, which suits the serious subject matter.

Cinematography by M Ravichandran Thevar and Sapan Narula captures the bleakness and intensity of the narrative effectively, using muted colors and tight framing to enhance the claustrophobic feel. Overall, the film succeeds as a hard-hitting crime drama but may not appeal to audiences looking for entertainment or escapism.

Deepak Dobriyal: Convincing and intense portrayal of a disturbed individual, bringing authenticity to the role.

Mahie Gill: Strong and nuanced performance, effectively conveying vulnerability and complexity.

Ajay Gehi: Supportive role with a restrained and believable presence.