12th Fail | Movie Review

Bollywood

Movie: 12th Fail

Screenwriters: Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Jaskunwar Kohli, Aayush Saxena and Anurag Pathak

Producer and Director: Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Production Houses: Vinod Chopra Films and Zee Studios

I watch a lot of movies, but I make sure to share my thoughts on the ones that truly touch my heart.

And I wanted this one to be on my blog.

Story Plot

The story revolves around Manoj Kumar Sharma, a young man from a small village in Chambal (a region historically associated with dacoits). He dreams of becoming a police officer and fulfilling his family's hopes. His journey takes him to Delhi, where he begins preparing for the civil services examination at a coaching institute. With barely any money in his pockets, he works during the day and studies at night, refusing to give up despite the hardships. During his preparation, he meets Shraddha. Rather than becoming a distraction, she becomes his motivation and stands by him throughout his journey. 

This is the story of an honest man who stays true to himself, even though the people around him try to push him towards deceit. But till the end, he doesn’t budge.

Best Dialogue

Manoj: “Sir, humare jo papa hain, wo bilkul aap hi ki tarah imaandar hain. Lekin wo jahan bhi jaate hain, suspend ho jaate hain. Toh mujhe lagta tha badi bekaar ki cheez hai ye imaandari.”

DSP: “(Chuckles) Itni bhi bekaar ki cheez nahi hai.”

Manoj: “Nahi, nahi sir. Aapko dekha na, toh aisa laga ki agar kisi sahi insaan ke haath mein taakat ho, toh baat alag hai.”

Although the film is filled with some amazing dialogues but this one really stayed with me.

My POV

A perfect film to represent the words Blood, Sweat and Tears.

While watching the film, I initially wondered if it would be the same old story about a student preparing for an examination, clearing it, and eventually becoming what he always wanted to be. Well, technically, it was. But the story was quite different and amazing.

The story portrays the struggling phase of a dedicated and committed student, the challenges he faces and the people he meets along his journey. Following the path of wrongdoing is always easy. But knowing what is wrong, watching people around you do it, having opportunities to do the same, and still choosing the path of honesty is not easy. It takes courage and guts to stand by what you believe in, and it certainly isn't for everyone. Such people eventually become an inspiration to many. This is what makes the stories of such people worth telling and bringing to the screen.

There is also a rule of life that when you are working towards something important, countless distractions come your way. Love is often considered one of them. But having someone who brings you closer to your aim rather than taking you off track is a blessing. Even though Manoj was dealing with so many adversities, having Shraddha by his side showed what real love can be. A kind of love that doesn't let you fail, but instead gives you the strength to keep going. And perhaps, because of that Manoj had already won in life.

Experiencing stories like this can sometimes feel like fiction, but this one is based on a true story. Life gives obstacles to everyone, but those who face them with sincerity and keep moving forward are often rewarded in the end. Overall, Manoj may have been poor in terms of money and resources, but with honesty, determination, a good heart, and real love, he got everything that truly mattered in life.

It was a great film from my perspective. A great story, superb acting, and amazing direction. I absolutely loved it.

Conclusion

The one thing I want to say is that 12th Fail is truly an inspirational film.

If you're a student or preparing for an examination, it can work as a much-needed boost during your journey. But it isn't only for students. Anyone who feels lost, stuck, or defeated in life can find something meaningful in this story. It is definitely worth watching.

One interesting thing about the film is that you also get to see Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, the founder of Drishti IAS Coaching, making an appearance in the movie. His presence adds another interesting connection to the world of civil services preparation portrayed in the film.

The film is called 12th Fail but ironically, it became a huge Success. It also received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film, along with several other awards. And honestly, I can understand why.

So, in the end, all I want to say is: Whenever you feel lost in the game of life, don't quit.

Just...

Restart. Restart. Restart.