Victoria No. 203 (1972) Review: Two veterans headline one of the most original and entertaining heist comedies in Bollywood

RATING - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ✨ 3.5/5*

Victoria No. 203 Review Movie Talkies:

Many of us are familiar with the American film See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989), starring Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder, which later inspired Indian remakes and is often remembered as an original crime-comedy. But wait—Victoria No. 203 arrived almost two decades earlier. While the core idea may feel borrowed, the film’s structure and its seamless mix of comedy, romance, and heist elements feel refreshingly original even today.

Victoria No. 203 Story:

The story revolves around two lovable crooks, Raja (Ashok Kumar) and Rana (Pran). A scheming Seth Durgadas (Anwar Hussain) is after a stash of diamonds hidden inside Victoria No. 203, which is now owned by Rekha (Saira Banu). Upon learning about the diamonds, Raja and Rana impersonate Rekha’s uncles and take shelter in her house. What follows is a playful battle of wits—will the duo manage to get their hands on the diamonds, or will Durgadas beat them to it?

Victoria No. 203 Cast:

The film is a fun, steady ride, but what truly elevates it is the presence of its two veteran leads. Ashok Kumar, a superstar of the 1940s and 1950s who later reinvented himself as a charismatic veteran in the 1970s and 1980s, is delightful as a full-blown flirt. Pran, as his partner in crime, is equally brilliant—constantly pulling his best friend away from trouble, especially when women are involved. Their chemistry is gold. Saira Banu looks gorgeous, Navin Nischol is apt in his role, and Anwar Hussain makes for an effective villain.

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Victoria No. 203 Music:

The song Do Bechare Bin Sahare is pure joy and absolute entertainment. From the lyrics and composition to its picturisation, everything screams classic blockbuster charm. It’s one of those songs that lingers in your mind long after the film ends. I Just can't get that song out of my head now.

Victoria No. 203 Movie Review:

Overall, Victoria No. 203 is a thoroughly enjoyable film. Credit must go to director Brij for skillfully blending multiple elements into a cohesive and, most importantly, original mix. We haven’t had many memorable heist comedies since, so it’s time we hype this old gem that was always there—we just didn’t pay enough attention.

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