Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Writers: Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Jaskunwar Kohli, Anurag Pathak, Aayush Saxena
Stars: Vikrant Massey, Medha Shankr, Anant Joshi, Anshuman Pushkar

“12th Fail” marks Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s triumphant return, weaving a tapestry of hope and resilience through the journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma (Vikrant Massey).

Set against the backdrop of poverty and corruption, Manoj’s quest to conquer the nation’s toughest exam is a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable will.While the film occasionally dips into didacticism and its treatment may verge on the overstated, it radiates warmth with its message of human goodness, reminiscent of Chopra’s cinematic gems like “Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.” (2003) and “3 Idiots” (2009), making it a cherished addition to the Hindi heartland narrative.

Massey’s depiction of Sharma is truly outstanding, garnering him praise for what many see as the pinnacle of his acting career. His subtle portrayal perfectly captures the essence of an underdog’s determined quest for success against all odds. Starting from humble origins, juggling menial jobs to support his UPSC preparation, to the emotional and intellectual journey he undergoes, Massey’s portrayal of Sharma is both genuine and gripping.

Chopra’s masterful direction brings Manoj’s challenges to life, deftly tackling themes of societal injustice and the pursuit of excellence. The film’s portrayal of the Union Public Service Commission’s biases against vernacular medium candidates is particularly poignant, underscored by Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s stirring poem “Haar Nahin Manoonga” (Won’t Give Up).

Supported by an ensemble cast delivering standout performances, “12th Fail” resonates deeply with its exploration of perseverance and idealism.

While pacing issues and slightly weak chemistry in the lead pair may slightly detract from its impact, the film remains a heartfelt reminder of the transformative power of education and the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity.