In a cinematic landscape often dominated by flashy blockbusters and star-studded extravaganzas, “12th Fail” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the authenticity of human experiences. Directed by the seasoned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, this heartwarming tale has been making waves at the box office, impressing both critics and audiences alike. In this article, we delve into the film’s box office collection journey, critical reception, and the director’s vision that brought “12th Fail” to life.
Box Office
After its opening weekend, “12th Fail” has garnered significant attention for its notable box office performance. The film, starring Vikrant Massey as a 12th-grade failure with dreams of becoming a UPSC aspirant in the rugged terrain of Chambal, managed to record an impressive collection of ₹6.8 crore. The film’s financial journey has been a compelling narrative in itself.
On the third day of its release, “12th Fail” displayed commendable growth, with a recorded occupancy of 24.4 percent on Sunday. The positive word of mouth, driven by its relatable story of ambition and resilience, has contributed to this substantial improvement in box office figures.
On Sunday, the film managed to collect ₹2.8 crore, as per early estimates reported by Sacnilk.com. This addition bolstered the film’s total three-day collection to a commendable ₹6.42 crore. Such achievements are remarkable, especially for a movie that isn’t driven by big-budget special effects or A-list star power.
It’s worth noting that the film also exhibited higher Hindi occupancy on Sunday, with a figure of 24.41 percent. The journey of “12th Fail” at the box office began with an opening day collection of ₹1.1 crore, followed by a noteworthy increase to ₹2.51 crore on Saturday. These numbers exemplify the film’s capacity to resonate with viewers and its ability to grow organically through positive word of mouth.
The Story of “12th Fail”
“12th Fail” is not just another film; it’s a profound exploration of ambition, dedication, and the resilience needed to overcome setbacks. The narrative is inspired by Anurag Pathak’s best-selling novel, which delves into the incredible journey of two civil servants, IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and IRS officer Shraddha Joshi.
The film primarily follows the character portrayed by Vikrant Massey, a young man who fails his 12th-grade examination but remains undeterred in his quest to become a UPSC aspirant. His journey, set in the rugged and unforgiving terrain of Chambal, serves as the backdrop for this inspiring tale.
The film also features Medha Shankar, who plays a pivotal role opposite Vikrant Massey, adding depth and dimension to the story. The essence of “12th Fail” lies in its relatability, as it tells a tale that many viewers can connect with – the struggle to achieve one’s dreams against all odds.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception
The critical acclaim that “12th Fail” has garnered is a testament to its compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal of human experiences. The Hindustan Times review of the film has aptly described it as “a pure and honest tale of success and failure.” Critics have celebrated the film’s ability to tug at heartstrings while offering a realistic perspective on the journey to success.
Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh expressed his admiration for the film by stating that “a good film finds its audience.” His statement underscores the notion that quality cinema can transcend the need for extravagant budgets or superstar cast ensembles.
Sumit Kadel, another prominent trade analyst, hailed “12th Fail” as a “beautiful film that you can’t afford to miss.” He further endorsed the film by suggesting it deserved a “HIT” verdict at the box office, underlining its potential to resonate with viewers and make a significant impact.
Kadel also went on to label the film as the “most heartwarming and inspirational film of 2023,” emphasizing its ability to touch the hearts of its audience. The positive reviews and endorsements from industry experts have undoubtedly contributed to the film’s success and its growing popularity.
Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Vision
“12th Fail” is not just a cinematic venture for director Vidhu Vinod Chopra; it’s a labor of love and a reflection of his deeply rooted artistic principles. The director’s approach to the film is both personal and universal, as he believes that the story of “12th Fail” is a story of “each one of us.”
Chopra, who started writing the film when he was 66 and completed it at the age of 71, reveals the immense dedication and care that went into crafting this tale. He emphasizes that creating a film of this caliber requires years, not mere months, as every character has a unique story to tell.
Furthermore, “12th Fail” is not a conventional biopic but a story that encapsulates the experiences, aspirations, and dreams of individuals coming to big cities with hope in their hearts. The film resonates with anyone who has ever strived for something against all odds, making it universally relatable.
In his own words, Chopra explains, “It’s each one of us… There is a lot of me and you in the film.” His intention as an artist and filmmaker is not merely to amass wealth but to make a difference in people’s lives. Money has never been his primary motivator. Instead, he strives to create works of art that inspire and uplift, and “12th Fail” is a testament to this philosophy.
In a world where commercial considerations often drive creative decisions, Chopra’s unwavering commitment to telling a story that resonates with the human spirit is a refreshing departure from the norm. His decision to choose Vikrant Massey, a talented actor known for his nuanced performances, instead of relying on established franchises, reflects his dedication to the project’s core message.
