Recap and Review of “12th Fail” (2023)

Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s “12th Fail” (2023) is a heartfelt film that portrays the struggles of an ordinary man aspiring to achieve extraordinary success in India’s highly competitive bureaucratic system. Starring Vikrant Massey as Manoj Kumar Sharma, the film is based on the real-life journey of Sharma, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who overcame numerous obstacles to crack the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams. The movie is adapted from Anurag Pathak’s novel Twelfth Fail and offers an inspiring tale about perseverance, integrity, and hope.

Plot Recap:

The movie is set in the late 1990s and follows Manoj, a young man hailing from a small village in Chambal. Manoj’s father, Ramveer Sharma, is an honest man who faces disgrace after refusing to indulge in corruption. This incident leaves a deep impact on Manoj, who initially has little interest in pursuing academic excellence.

However, when an upright police officer unfairly tags him as a “12th Fail,” Manoj is shaken to his core. Determined to reclaim his self-respect and prove himself, he moves to Delhi with the aim of clearing the UPSC exams and becoming an IPS officer.

The journey is far from smooth. Manoj faces numerous challenges, including financial hardship, limited proficiency in English, and personal conflicts, particularly with his love interest, Shraddha Joshi. His determination is tested repeatedly, but with unwavering support from friends and family, he continues to fight for his goal.

The movie masterfully captures the relentless pressure and the sacrifices required to prepare for the UPSC exams. Manoj’s friendships with fellow aspirants, his father’s resilience, and his relationship with Shraddha add depth to the narrative, portraying the human element behind every aspirant’s dream.

Character Development:

Vikrant Massey delivers a stunning performance as Manoj, portraying his transformation from a laid-back student to a focused and determined civil servant. Massey effectively communicates the character’s emotional struggles and the resilience required to face the grueling UPSC exam preparation.

Medha Shankar, as Shraddha, plays a crucial role in the narrative. Shraddha serves as Manoj’s emotional anchor and provides unwavering support throughout his journey. The chemistry between the two characters offers a much-needed emotional balance in an otherwise intense plot. Supporting actors, such as Anant Vijay Joshi and Anshumaan Pushkar, also add valuable depth to the film.

Themes:

1. Perseverance in the Face of Adversity: “12th Fail” highlights the value of perseverance and hard work. Manoj’s journey is a testament to how success comes only after repeated failures and relentless efforts.

2. Corruption and Integrity: The movie delves into the broader issue of corruption within India’s bureaucratic system. Manoj’s father, Ramveer, represents the price of honesty, while Manoj’s quest symbolizes a desire to reform the system from within.

3. Socio-economic Disparities: Manoj hails from a modest background, and the film effectively captures the systemic challenges faced by aspirants from rural areas, from lack of resources to limited proficiency in English.

4. Importance of Relationships: Despite the intense focus on Manoj’s personal journey, “12th Fail” also emphasizes the importance of relationships. Manoj’s journey is supported by his family, friends, and Shraddha, showing that behind every success story, there is a support system.

Cinematography and Direction:

Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s direction is powerful and immersive. The film’s cinematography beautifully captures the bustling chaos of Delhi, where UPSC aspirants flock to coaching centers, contrasting it with the peaceful, rural setting of Chambal. The transition from the wide expanses of Manoj’s village to the cramped, competitive world of Delhi symbolizes his journey from innocence to ambition.

The film avoids melodrama and over-sentimentality, focusing instead on the realism of everyday struggles. The dialogue, too, is kept grounded and relatable, further enhancing the authenticity of the film.

Score and Soundtrack:

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Shantanu Moitra, complements the narrative perfectly. The score features a blend of traditional Indian instruments, particularly the sitar and flute, enhancing the emotional undertones of the film. Songs like “Bolo Na” and “Restart” capture Manoj’s internal journey, shifting from self-doubt to self-belief.

Review:

“12th Fail” is a gripping, emotional saga that resonates with many aspirants across India. The film’s strength lies in its authenticity and its focus on a relatable, human story rather than just glorifying success. Vikrant Massey’s performance is outstanding, and the supporting cast, including Medha Shankar, Anant Vijay Joshi, and Harish Khanna, enhance the film’s emotional depth.

The pacing of the film is well-balanced, though some portions, particularly Manoj’s romantic subplot with Shraddha, may feel slightly predictable. However, the film makes up for it with its strong portrayal of Manoj’s relationship with his father and friends.

“12th Fail” is not just a film about clearing an exam; it’s a story about life’s bigger lessons. It shows that success is a long, lonely road, but with determination, honesty, and a strong support system, anything is possible.

Conclusion: Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail is a triumph of storytelling. It’s a film that will inspire not only UPSC aspirants but anyone facing personal or professional challenges. Through Manoj’s story, the movie serves as a powerful reminder that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success.