In the realm of Indian cinema, Vidhu Vinod Chopra is a name synonymous with grandeur, cinematic brilliance, and storytelling prowess. However, with “12th Fail,” a departure from his usual genre, Chopra brings us a heartwarming tale rooted in reality. This Vikrant Massey-starrer takes you on a journey that is as far removed from Chopra’s typical cinematic landscape as one could imagine. In a world filled with poetic gangster films, crime thrillers, and period dramas, “12th Fail” dares to tell the straightforward story of a 12th-grade student who, through sheer perseverance and an unwavering attitude, cracks the prestigious UPSC examination to become an IPS officer.
If one were not aware of the director, it would be easy to mistake this film for the work of Rajkumar Hirani, known for his heartwarming and inspirational stories. The title itself, “12th Fail,” is a nod to the protagonist’s humble beginnings, as opposed to a more common “12th Pass.” This narrative choice immediately establishes the underdog nature of the story and its focus on the journey from failure to success.
The plot of “12th Fail” is based on the real-life story of Mohan Kumar Sharma, as chronicled in Ashok Pathak’s best-selling book. Mohan’s transformation from the Chambal region’s wilds to the hallowed halls of the UPSC building in the capital is nothing short of extraordinary. The contrast between his modest background and the competitive world of the UPSC exams is stark. His journey becomes a testament to the power of hope and determination.
The film’s success can be attributed to Vikrant Massey’s exceptionally convincing portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma. Manoj hails from a small village in Madhya Pradesh, an area once terrorized by dacoits. His story of constant failure and eventual success will resonate with anyone who has experienced the grueling process of preparing for civil service exams. Massey embodies the character’s struggles and triumphs, making Manoj a relatable and endearing protagonist.
Supporting Manoj on his journey are the characters that surround him. Medha Shankar plays his supportive girlfriend, and Anantvijay Joshi portrays his helpful friend. Anshumaan Pushkar takes on the role of an experienced exam taker, representing the many UPSC aspirants who share their dreams and challenges. Priyanshu Chatterjee adds depth to the film as the straight-arrow cop who becomes Manoj’s idol. Together, they create a believable and engaging ensemble cast that enriches the narrative.
The film’s strength lies in its well-calibrated writing, which maintains relatability even when the story delves into seemingly unbelievable scenarios. For instance, Manoj’s determination leads him to study in a room with a noisy flour mill, working diligently during the day and studying through the night. Such real-life instances may seem extraordinary, but the film convincingly portrays them as part of Manoj’s incredible journey.
As Vidhu Vinod Chopra celebrates his 45th year in the film industry, “12th Fail” stands out in his filmography. While Chopra is known for helming some of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters, this film is distinguished by its sweetness of spirit combined with a strong sense of realism. Despite the occasional mood spikes and the use of background music, “12th Fail” remains grounded in the everyday struggles of its characters. The film’s locations, although some are sets, and certain characters, while somewhat exaggerated, maintain a sense of authenticity. This balance between real-life inspiration and cinematic storytelling keeps the audience engaged.
One of the film’s highlights is its portrayal of the countless young aspirants who converge in coaching centers, particularly in places like North Delhi’s Mukerjee Nagar. These students, far from their homes, cram day and night, aspiring to transcend their current circumstances and achieve something greater. It’s a quintessential Indian story that resonates with many who have experienced the rigorous demands of civil service exam preparation.
While “12th Fail” delivers an overall heartwarming and inspirational narrative, there are moments when the story loses some momentum. For example, the character Shraddha, who is depicted as highly educated, initially believes that Manoj is more educated than he actually is. This aspect of the plot requires a certain suspension of disbelief, as it seems apparent that Manoj is not as educated as Shraddha initially assumes. Additionally, the film employs an all-knowing voiceover, a device that feels somewhat outdated and unnecessary in a narrative where the visuals can speak for themselves.
Nonetheless, the central theme of “12th Fail” is a powerful message of hope, perseverance, and the belief that honesty is a viable path to success. In a world often marked by cynicism, the film offers a refreshing dose of naivety, which can be seen as an elixir for troubled times. It reminds viewers that one can maintain their integrity while ascending to the top, and that even in the face of failure, one can dust themselves off and start anew.
In conclusion, “12th Fail” is a departure from Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s typical cinematic fare, offering a grounded and heartwarming story of an underdog who defies the odds to achieve greatness. Vikrant Massey’s exceptional performance and a strong supporting cast bring the characters to life, making the audience believe in their journey. While the film has moments that could be refined, its core message of hope and perseverance is a much-needed balm for our cynical times. “12th Fail” is a testament to the power of dreams and the enduring belief that, in the face of adversity, success is attainable. It stands as a reminder that sometimes, a touch of naivety can be the elixir we need to overcome life’s challenges and find our way to a brighter future.
