Designed to be an ode to resilience and determination, ’12th Fail’ chronicles the extraordinary journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer who overcame immense odds to achieve his dreams. Manoj comes from a humble village in Chambal, Madhya Pradesh, and his academic difficulties begin early when he fails his Class XII exams due to the crackdown on cheating imposed by the new Directorate of Schools, Dushyant Singh. Undeterred by this setback, Manoj passed the exam the following year, albeit with a third grade.
Unaware of the complexities of the civil services exam, Manoj ventures to Delhi to fulfill his aspirations. However, his lack of academic prowess poses a major obstacle in his path to success. Unafraid of challenges, Manoj embarks on a journey marked by relentless perseverance and unwavering determination. With the support of his mentor, friends, and girlfriend Shraddha Joshi, he navigates the trials and tribulations of life, taking menial jobs to support himself while pursuing his dream.
Every stage of Manoj’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, from his struggles and setbacks to his unwavering commitment to starting anew each time. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are drawn into Manoj’s world and empathize with his triumphs and tribulations. The tension builds as you approach the final hurdle: the interview, a moment filled with silent anticipation and anticipation.
The film seamlessly weaves together the various threads of Manoj’s life, drawing inspiration from legendary figures like APJ Abdul Kalam and BR Ambedkar. It brilliantly highlights the importance of education and empowerment in challenging the status quo, highlighting the motivations behind corrupt politicians’ efforts to stifle the intellectual growth of young people.
Vikrant Massey delivers an impressive performance, bringing to life the complex character of Manoj Kumar Sharma. His performance captures the character’s myriad emotions, from frustration and helplessness to unwavering determination. Priyanshu Chatterjee shines in her role as DCP, displaying the courage and integrity that define her character. Her interaction with Manoj reflects a mix of respect and pride, underscoring the impact of mentorship.
Geeta Agrawal Sharma and Harish Khanna deliver nuanced performances as Manoj’s parents, adding depth to the film’s emotional landscape. Director Chopra’s masterful storytelling ensures that every character gets a chance to shine, resulting in a compelling and inspiring cinematic experience.
“12th Fail” is a cinematic gem that resonates with viewers on a deep level, leaving a lasting impression with its moving narrative and brilliant performances. It serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. So whenever you are thinking of quitting all you need to do instead is #RESTART.