“12th Fail” is a biographical drama film written, directed, and co-produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The movie follows IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, who fearlessly embraces the idea of restarting his academic journey and reclaiming his destiny at a place where millions of students attempt the world’s toughest competitive exam: UPSC.
I had heard rave reviews and so much positive word of mouth, but I wanted to keep my expectations managed. After watching the film, I can confidently say it’s the most honest and inspiring film I have seen in recent times. Not only is the film inspirational, but in terms of storytelling and filmmaking, it is exceptionally well-crafted.
so here is the breakdown of the exceptional movie 12th fail :
1. Writing –
Writer-Director Vidu Vinod Chopra said he wrote this film more than 260 times. He took 3 years to write the script of this film and it’s visible on screen. The jeep conversation scene, or when the character of gauri bhayya explains UPSC with the example of a snake and ladder. Also the interpersonal relationship of characters written so beautifully. Scenes and dialogues feel natural and don’t feel just the lines it feels it comes from the characters. Also, my favorite interview scene is written very beautifully.
2. Technical Aspects –
Blocking and staging work together providing the visual output of the film. It is one of the most impressive things in film. There are so many long-take shots in the film example when the police come during exams or another scene when they are sitting around a table and the camera tracking them in a circle and when the character of Shraddha starts singing then the camera focuses on her.
There are multiple well-shot scenes. In the scenes when he is doing work in a rice mill or a jail scene there is darkness in scenes but also the ray the light that has engulfed them is visible. There is always a light in every scene like “Ummid ki kiran”. Also, the sound design and sound mixing of the film draw attention separately. When Manoj’s bag is robbed by the unknown woman on the bus he knows it’s gone but then also he tries to find it this entire scene sound is very echo and only hears the traffic horns and public voices, and we understand this man is lost without any dialogue.
3. Favorite Scene –
My favorite scene is the interview scene, masterfully staged and divided into two halves. especially the second half, where Manoj asserts that becoming an IPS officer is not his sole goal but rather the aim is to improve the country “IPS banna lakshya nahi hain, lakshya hain desh ko sudharna”, is powerful. The essence of the film is captured in the line, “If I cannot become the sun to shine upon the earth, I can still be a lamp and light up my street,” making it a memorable moment.
4. Simplicity and Inspiring –
The film’s biggest strength lies in its simplicity, allowing instant connection with the characters. It remains honest and avoids romanticizing the poverty and helplessness of the main character, Manoj. His poverty is not an excuse but a source of strength, making him relatable. The scene where he responds to his father’s statement about people like them never winning with determination is both natural and inspiring.
The film incorporates background music from “Pather Panchali” during dramatic scenes, serving as an homage to the classic. The romantic angle is also skillfully portrayed, contributing to the film’s strength.
The performances, especially by Vikrant Massey in a career-defining role, are commendable. From his TV days in “Balika Vadhu” to “Lootera,” “Criminal Justice,” and now this recognition, Massey proves his talent. The supporting actors also deliver strong performances.
In conclusion, “12th Fail” is one of the best films I’ve seen in recent times. While the film follows a familiar pattern, it feels fresh and highly inspiring. I highly recommend it.
If you like my review and breakdown of the “12th Fail” movie then do check my review of Animal Movie
