The conflict point which is shown in the film (was hidden in the trailer) is very simple and known. The conflict itself isn't able to make jaws drop. But it's the presentation, performances and the sheer drama (in the second half) that drives this film forward. The first half is driven by comedy, which promises a good time. The drama soars high in the second half, and races towards a hastefully designed climax which should've been given a bit more time to develop. This is probably due to the average editing in the first half, where some scenes could've been easily edited out to make way for the dramatic climax in the second half. But, the hasty climax isn't a letdown primarily because of the performances. Both Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani have done praise-worthy job in their roles. Kartik (though the same in comedy) has pulled off the emotional scenes with some serious acting. It's hard to believe a cheerful person like him acting so considerably well in those serious moments. And as far as comedy is concerned, I felt it's Kartik's innocence that drove the comedy smoothly rather than his comedy timing. Kiara Advani has also played her role quite nicely. She is able to potray the pain that her character required. Kiara looked really good in some of the romantic scenes, and both the actors had a good on screen chemistry. The supporting cast did well too.
The direction has also been good. The contrast that is created between the families of the two lead characters is quite believable. The portrayal of Sattu's middle class family is really relatable and comedic especially during the scene where Katha's parents come to visit Sattu in his home. Moreover, the characters conversing in gujarati with each others at several instances also keeps up the novelty factor, considering the fact that the entire story takes place in Gujarat. The gujarati culture is well shown with garba, but the songs were letdown. The music is pretty average for a romantic film and the songs are just forgettable tracks. It's only during the second half (when the songs come as bgms during important scenes) that the music sounds good. The cinematography by Ayanaka Bose is good, showing two contrasting sides of Gujarat, as was intended.
All in all, the film Satyaprem Ki Katha remains true to it's context and is close to reality. Although this film drives itself forward with known things, they're a lot better than the lovey dovey nothingness that old romantic films had. The film also has a lesson which is (again) very common, but is very well addressed. The in-laws of Katha are shown in a real way, who do not make matters worse for their daughter in law (as we see in clichéd dramas). The in-laws grow impatient for a certain bit, but empathise for their daughter in law and feel for her when they get to know her story. On the contrary, Katha's parents are also shown quite real, who are trying to get their daughter married to a middle class boy only for a cover up. This film is a one time watch for many as it's not a very mature or an erotic kind of a love story. But it's a definite choice for those who love romantic films, and are hoping to see one which has pitched drama, innocent romance and a soul to it's core.