Teesri Manzil (1966) User Reviews (19)

Thrills galore!

[HeadleyLamarr · 8/10 · 11 October 2007]

Teesri manzil is above all an entertainer. The film stars Shammi Kapoor, Asha Parikh, and the evergreen Helen. A woman is thrown off a roof and killed. Her sister Sunita (Asha Parikh) is heartbroken, knows of her association with a night club singer (Shammi Kapoor - called Anil Kumar Sona "Rocky" LOL!!) and thinks he is behind the killing. The only clue is a coat button that the dead woman was clutching in her hand. Shammi Kappor is at his goofiest best, the suave drummer Rocky who is a babe magnet. His courting Asha Parikh on a train is hilarious. She does not know he is Rocky and he does his best to preserve this state of misinformation. In the meantime strange waiters, men with cigars, other sinister looking people lurk about in the hotel where Rocky performs. There is also a women's hockey team led by a rather large Manorama that is stalking Rocky. Laxmi Chayya is the best friend - this is a film from the 60s where having a best friend (or several of them) was a must! Rocky makes use of Prince Kunwer (Prem Nath) to preserve the secret of his identity so he can woo Sunita, much to the chagrin of her almost fiancée Prem Chopra. Rocky is being pursued by Ruby (Helen) and her machinations cause his identity to be revealed at a most inopportune moment. Who is the real murderer? Why is Rocky now a target? These secrets are hidden in a most ingenious way and revealed at the 11th hour.

A Nasir Hussain production and story, this one was directed by Vijay Anand. The mystery was sustained well and the story engaging. Yes there were some flaws - too many characters were introduced too late in the film. Some of the cloak and dagger behavior was never explained. But the overall entertainment quotient was very high and the film enjoyable.

A word about Shammi - he was handsome, goofy, vulnerable and great in the action sequences. Asha had a huge rear end, but was cute and could dance well - even in the jiggling Aaja Aaja number! Helen was a beauty, but strangely enough her dance skills were underutilized. Prem Chopra was the perfect slimy guy and Prem Nath suave.

A must see film for the fun, the suspense and the outstanding music (RD Burman) - O Haseena Zulfon wali, O mere Sona re Sona re, Deewana mujh sa nahin, Aaja Aaja main hoon pyar Tera, Tumne Mujhe Dekha ho kar meherbaan and Dekhiye Sahibon.

Zestful!

[Spondonman · 7/10 · 10 May 2007]

This is a perfect example of Indian pop cinema from the 1960's reflecting the relentless encroachment of Western style music and beat generation dancing - however R. D. Burman composed some good tunes for this, perfectly showcasing the talents that were Asha Bhosle and Mohammed Rafi.

A woman is murdered and her old friend played by Shammi Kapoor feels obliged to help track down the culprit. As it goes it's done pretty well, but of course the music is the thing! Although I liked his older brother Raj and along with this one some of his other films too I could never understand Shammi's over-expressive style of acting or his appeal (not being a woman maybe) - imho he almost ruined some of the songs here with his mugging and jerky movements. But of course, Shammi once seen never forgotten! Favourite bit: O Mere Sona - I used to wind on and play the vid just for this just to marvel in the incredible dexterity of Asha's vocals in the asking of Shammi's forgiveness; it's much easier with the DVD! The only copy I've ever seen has a rather fluid colour, occasionally lending an unintentionally surreal atmosphere at times but not detracting from the enjoyment.

It's an inconsequential treat much better than Viva Las Vegas, but clocking in at nearly 3 hours means patience, patience I think ultimately rewarded.

Near-perfect blend of mystery, humor, romance and music.

[marshall crist · 8/10 · 5 October 2001]

While the filmmakers may have been trying for a Hitchcock-like blend of suspense, humor and romance, the eye-popping pastels of the film's Eastmancolor cinematography and outlandish, energetic musical numbers blend to create a delightful Bollywood concoction. Lead actor Shammi Kapoor is wonderfully fruity in what is probably his best performance, and dancing queen Helen is in classic bad girl mode. Not to be missed by anyone interested in 1960's Indian pop cinema.

A Perfect Musical Thriller to be enjoyed again and again

[rpcreates · 10/10 · 22 March 2006]

In todays world when not even the producers know what they are serving the audience in the name of 'Entertainment' this beautifully made film still is a landmark in film making. It is in true sense a 'Musical Thriller' that today we see only written on posters! Beautifully shot and choreographed, this film is a gripping tale of suspense, drama, and a flavor of humor that keeps the audience excited even today. The lead actors have given their best performance and each character has something to contribute in the story. A very rare thing in Hindi films. The music was so ahead of its time that even today they are being re-mixed for the new generation and are a hit! This type of film comes once in a while and is a must to add to your film library. A must see for every film buff! Nobody can say enough for the film...Just bring it home and enjoy the roller coaster ride! Happy viewing!!

Gross Entertainment

[jgaekwad · 10/10 · 20 January 2006]

This movie is one of the landmarks in the history Hindi Cinema. For 158 minutes the audience is enthralled by a spellbound plot, music, dance, songs and suspense saga. The performance of Shammi Kapoor, Helen, both Prems, Iftikar and Rashid Khan is classic. Even during the 5 mt brief intermission, the cine-goer prefers to be glued to his seat lest the entry of Premnath, immediately after the intermission be missed.

Comedy is at its zenith. The entry of Kapoor on the New Delhi Rly platform and his extraordinary style of walking is mind boggling.

Even 40 years down history, its music and songs are as hit as they were when the first gramophone records were released in 1965. I remember people queuing before the radios in shops and halt in the streets when the songs were played. Needless to say, not a single Wednesday program of Binaca Geetmala in 1966 thru 1968 was aired without a Shammi number either from Teesri Manzil, An Evening in Paris and Bhramachari.

The music, drama, settings and perspiring expressions of Kapoor during the climax of accidentally locating the intriguing "gem-studded coat-button " is scary, hair raising and traumatic.

A film for all classes and all age.

Bollywood at its best

[gurdeepmann59 · 7/10 · 25 April 2012]

This is probably Shammi Kapoor's best performances after JUNGLEE(1961

Its quiet different to see him in the role of a framed musician with an eye for the ladies He has like three bad girls who love him

A young woman fell in love for Shammi and committed suicide but the girls sister thinks her sister was seduced and jilted which is why she wants revenge

The movie is a Hithcock-influenced romance with a small murder mystery thrown in

The movie has fantastic song stand outs like O Hasina Zulfonwali Jaane Jahan and Tumne Mujhe Dekha

Shammi Kapoor stands out in his role Asha Parekh is the spunky revenge seeking sister Premnath is convincing Helen's role is small but effective Prem Chopra is average Rashid Khan is scary with his stare the rest are okay

A best thriller made in Indian cinema with good music which i love to watch again and again

[santoshini908 · 10/10 · 17 February 2009]

A Hitchcockian thriller to be watched again and again. The suspense has been maintained well till the end of the movie.The film is basically about the murder suspect.The climax scene where the real murderer is found is very thrilling.The music of the movie is very good.One interesting aspect in this movie is the murderer is founded out accidentally at the end of the movie.The movie can be watched by all ages of people.Enjoy a three hour thrilling experience.The movie is very fast and it increases the heart beats of the people who watched this movie.This thriller is very much equivalent to thrillers made in the Hollywood.Never forget to watch this thriller and keep guessing the murderer till the end.

Musical and thriller done well

[rushijadhav-80081 · 7/10 · 29 August 2020]

The films plays around for a while with typical romantic plots but really catches up in the end . Hints are thrown throughout the film but not taken seriously . The songs much play as a conversation between the characters and minor visual hints provide the intentions of character . Director Vijay Anand's framing is best when we see a just a eye in the frame of two characters speaking two different emotions at the same time . The films completes the full circle at the end . The film is also a 'masala film' for all bollywood fans out there . Great performances of from all the actors helps the films weak screenplay of 1st half come to life .Teesri Manzil the title refers to the heights of compassion , wealth and ego of humans and rise and downfall of it .

Songs, romance, action and drama-what more can you ask for??

[jassi1984 · 9/10 · 15 June 2006]

I first saw this film a few years ago and since then I must have seen it at least 20 times. First and foremost, the songs are excellent. I could listen to every single one again and again, especially O Haseena Zulfon Wali. Mohd Rafi truly is the greatest Indian playback singer to date. Asha Bhosle provides excellent support, particularly in the O Mera Sona Re song. Secondly, both the acting of Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh is great, both of them can pull off the comedy and the seriousness. Thirdly the plot of the movie is quite good too, with enough suspense to keep you hooked until the very end. This movie has been credited as the first murder mystery in Indian cinema and although at times its very clichéd and a little unbelievable, it still holds your attention.

All in all a typical 1960's movie but with that added masala that is bollywood!!

Not much of a thriller

[merisoch · 6/10 · 11 November 2020]

Most of the movie is about the love story between the characters played by Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh, and it has some nice iconic songs. It is not a bad film but there is not much suspense. The thriller story is not developed throughout the film so the plot twist looks completely unrelated. It may have been revolutionary in the 60's but is nothing compared to modern thrillers like Andhadhun. The story is very simple so you can skip the film and just enjoy the songs.

Great movie making

[hds-24055 · 8/10 · 20 September 2020]

The basic instincts of directors come to the fore when they make a movie. Guru Dutt is an observer of life and never resorts to melodrama even in his tragedies. Gulzar is a mischievous person and this comes out in Anand, Chupke Chupke where he wrote dialogues or in the tragic Namkeen where he directed. Vijay Anand has a trained upbringing in terms of directorship when he saw and observed Chetan Anand at work. Here, he has not written the film but as a director his stamp is there in each frame of the film. He is a director by instincts, and a very good one. Apart from his writing and shooting and editing skills, where too he is unmatched.

not a landmark, not a thriller, not that good....

[kakusei · 5/10 · 13 July 2011]

shammi kapoor is perhaps the worst actor in Indian history. he's a guy you just can't take seriously. his silly eye rolls and one-liners are cringe-worthy, ensuring that the viewer NEVER takes this guy seriously. he seems like the kind of guy you'd want to punch in the face two minutes after meeting him, he's THAT annoying....

i must protest this film being called a 'thriller', since there are really no thrills on offer, rather a tired, straight-forward whodunit, masquerading as something hitchcockian, but failing miserably. by the time the mystery is revealed, you already knew the solution two hours earlier and have stuck around for reasons other than wanting to know how it ends....

like many other Indian films of this era, the point was to fill it up with as many random songs and one-liners as possible to disguise its lack of plot. silly bollywood clichés abound throughout the entire thing and there's really no story here at all, other than the typical 'girl likes boy but plays hard to get' plot that is used in just about every bollywood film ever made.

'teesri manzil' is an exercise in style over substance, which is the reason why it was such a big hit and so influential. it's all dressing, no substance. flashy, colourful clothes, sets and music are used, announcing India's entry into the mod scene. this movie is a showcase for that and nothing more. it simultaneously tries to be a comedy, drama, thriller, musical and romance and as a result, ends up failing at all of these... sadly, as is so common in the story of Indian film, it was popular, so its style became endlessly imitated, recycled, regurgitated and consumed again by hopelessly trend-following indians, so at least vijay anand can take credit for something with this failure....

Murder mystery,thriller Night in the 60's & the great stylish villain Premnath in the 60's :)

[wasif4783 · 10/10 · 5 May 2019]

Premnath wanted to be a hero like his Raj Kapoor. But couldn't really make it. This movie marks the second phase of his career. as a character actor and villain. The really shone this time. the villain.one of the great stylish villain in the 60's & 70's after glorious villain Ajit saab. This movie is one of the landmarks in the history Hindi Cinema. For 158 minutes the audience is enthralled by a spellbound plot, music, dance, songs and suspense saga. The performance of Shammi Kapoor, Helen, both Prems, Iftikar & Rashid Khan is classic. Even during the 5 mt brief intermission, the cine-goer prefers to be glued to his seat lest the entry of Premnath the villain immediately after the intermission be missed. Even 53 years down history, its music and songs are as hit as they were when the first gramophone records were released in 1965. I remember people queuing before the radios in shops and halt in the streets when the songs were played. Needless to say, not a single Wednesday program of Binaca Geetmala in 1966 thru 1968 was aired without a Shammi number either from Teesri Manzil, An Evening in Paris and Bhramachari. This is a perfect example of Indian pop cinema from the 1960's reflecting the relentless encroachment of Western style music and beat generation dancing - however R. D. Burman composed some good tunes for this, perfectly showcasing the talents that were Asha Bhosle and Mohammed Rafi. really great song sung by great Rafi saab. Super direction by Vijay Anand as usual.great reddish & pink color camera used in the night of 60's..

Classic. One of the best Hindi film soundtracks of all time.

[Amyth47 · 8/10 · 13 November 2020]

My Rating : 8/10

Superb - when Hindi Cinema had great artists unlike the cigarette factory of today's Bollywood.

Highest recommendation. A landmark.

EXCELLENT MUSIC

[sunildaswaney-63642 · 8/10 · 11 February 2021]

Although the movie was a very good one with excellent music and direction,i was disappointed that the original star of the film viz.Dev Anand did not do this picture instead of Shammi Kapoor.If he had done same,then he along with his brother/director Vijay Anand would have been able to recreate the magic displayed in "Jewel Thief"and "Johnny mera Naam",which Shammi Kapoor was not able to achieved Nevertheless it was a good murder mystery and definitely worth a watch.

Aaja Aaja and watch this classic musical blockbuster

[coltras35 · 10/10 · 22 November 2021]

Glossy, zesty, fun, dramatic, suspenseful, and musical - all these words match Teesri Manzil, a film which originally starred Dev Anand, alas it was not meant to be, so the role went to Shammi Kapoor(a mix of Jerry Lewis and Elvis), who, in retrospect, suited the role more than Anand, especially with inclusion of the youthful western style music, the constant shaking and apoplectic fits as Shammi and Asha break into "Aaja, Aaja"...

The story -After her sister commits suicide, Sunita blames a drummer, Rocky, for her death. She decides to seek revenge against him but later, finds out that her sister was murdered.

A simple story is regaled with suspenseful moments and youthful musical levels, all blended in with a masala concoction. The beauty ofTeesri Manzil that's it's not just a Hitchcockian suspenseful drama, but has other genres mixed in. It's highly zestful film that has only one criteria and that's to offer high level escapism with songs that make you hum them all day. All the songs are memorable and highly infectious, it's picturization are spot on, gleaming in Eastman colour.

The performances are exemplary-Shammi kapoor, with his zany blend of physical humour and hip shaking, is on top form, and he's matched greatly with Asha parekh, who is fantastic- their chemistry is exception. Prem Chopra, Premnath,Rashid Khan and the rest of the cast are great, however, if there's one criticism it's the killer isn't hard to identify, but that's a small niggle. If you want classic Shammi Kapoor, then Teesri Manzil fits the bill.

Horror and violence

[SushilKBirla · 1/10 · 28 November 2021]

This movie has five killings - five too many. Movie director, Vijay Anand, does not seem to know how to create mystery, suspense, and thrill without killing people. First, the villain kills his wife, because she catches him with his mistress. Then, he kills someone who sees him burying his wife - by pushing her off the third floor of the hotel. Then, he shoots a performer at the hotel, when he intended to kill her fellow performer. Then, he kills his mistress while she is on the phone giving her testimony to the police. At last, the villain plunges to his own death. IMDb rating should have mentioned "Violence" - the movie did not deserve 7.7.

I did not care much for the songs and dances. Some were in performances on the hotel stage - blaring in your face. Some were outdoors - out of place in the story.

This is what you calls a perfect musical thriller!!

[sauravjoshi85 · 9/10 · 20 August 2022]

Teesri Manzil is a 1966 musical thriller film directed by Late Vijay Anand. The film stars Late Shammi Kapoor, Asha Parekh, Late Laxmi Chhaya, Late Premnath, Prem Chopra, Late Iftekhar, Helen, late K. N. Singh and Salim Khan.

After her sister commits suicide, Sunita blames a drummer, Rocky, for her death. She decides to seek revenge against him but later, finds out that her sister was murdered.

The best part about this film is firstly it's superb songs and secondly it's gripping screenplay. Vijay Anand who has given few of the very memorable films of Indian cinema is bang on with this film. The best part of the film is that the film will not only keep you engaged but will also keep the viewers guessing whodunit, alas now a days we misses such beautiful film. The music of the film is just outstanding and mesmerizing all the songs were a big hit upon it's release and is still is a rage be it "O Haseena Julfonwali" "Tumne Mujhe Dekha Hokar Meharbaan" or "O Mere Sona Re, Sona Re, Sona Re" every song has different feel and what a great singer late Mohd. Rafi Sahab, he has made many songs immortal with his mesmerizing voice. Asha Bhosle ji the living legend has also stunningly beautiful voice.

The plot of the film is good and the execution is superb, the screenplay of the film will keep you engaged and no where the film looses it's grip on the viewers and the songs works as icing on the cake.

Acting is superb and Shammi Kapoor never disappoints, he was spot on in his role, Asha Parekh looked beautiful and equally impressive, Premnath can be considered as a surprise package. Rest all the characters be it Prem Chopra, Helen, Laxmi Chayya or Iftekhar were equally impressive.

Climax of the film is surprisingly beautiful and gives a beautiful closure to the film. A perfect example of a musical thriller film and a must watch.

Perfect blend of suspense, romance, and music

[disharma-24131 · 10/10 · 9 July 2023]

Directed by Vijay Anand and released in 1966, starring Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh in lead roles, the movie is a suspenseful musical thriller that became a huge hit at the box office and is still remembered for its entertaining plot, memorable songs, and stylish performances.

The story of "Teesri Manzil" revolves around Roopa (played by Asha Parekh), a young woman who arrives in town to investigate her sister's mysterious death. She suspects foul play and teams up with a charming but quirky musician, Rocky (played by Shammi Kapoor), to uncover the truth. As they dig deeper, they encounter numerous twists, turns, and unexpected revelations, making for a thrilling and engaging narrative.

One of the highlights of the film is its music, composed by R. D. Burman and featuring lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri. The soundtrack of "Teesri Manzil" is considered iconic, with songs like "Aaja Aaja," "O Haseena Zulfonwali," and "Deewana Mujhsa Nahin" becoming popular and evergreen hits. The songs are beautifully picturized and add to the overall enjoyment of the film.

Shammi Kapoor's energetic and charismatic performance is a major asset to the movie. He effortlessly portrays the charming and carefree Rocky, infusing the character with his trademark style and exuberance. Asha Parekh delivers a commendable performance as Roopa, effectively capturing her determination and vulnerability.

Vijay Anand's direction is noteworthy, as he maintains a good pace throughout the film, balancing the suspense and romance elements effectively. The screenplay, written by Nasir Hussain, is tight and keeps the audience engaged with its thrilling plot twists and well-executed sequences.

"Teesri Manzil" is a perfect blend of suspense, romance, and music, and it remains a classic in Bollywood cinema. It showcases the talents of the cast and crew, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. If you enjoy thrilling mysteries with a touch of romance and catchy songs, this film is definitely worth watching.