"Stealing Time" was released with modest expectations and received mixed reviews upon its initial release. Critics appreciated its attempt to tackle social issues involving land rights and the struggles of the Nama people, as well as its blend of a legal thriller with deeper themes of illness and survival. However, some felt the film's pacing and character development were uneven. Over the years, "Stealing Time" has found a dedicated audience who appreciate its heartfelt storytelling and focus on indigenous rights, leading many to consider it an underrated gem rather than a dated relic. While it never achieved mainstream blockbuster status, the film's reputation has grown positively among viewers interested in socially conscious cinema.