Movie Review on Vita and Virginia

 Hello everyone! I'm Priyanshi and welcome to my blog and here I'm sharing my personal experience, perspectives and insights through the movie of vita and Virginia and this blog was the part of the thinking task which was given by Vaidehi ma'am. 

Thinking task:


1) Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship? 

   The relationship between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf was complex and multifaceted.  according to me Vita was the one who initiated the relationship. Vita was quite taken with Virginia and expressed her admiration and affection in letters to her.

As for who was taking advantage of the relationship, it’s important observe that both Vita and Virginia were married to men at the time, and their relationship was consensual. They both derived something from their relationship: Vita found in Virginia a kindred spirit and intellectual equal, while Virginia was inspired by Vita to write one of her most celebrated works, the novel "Orlando". Therefore, it wouldn’t be accurate to say that one was taking advantage of the other. Their relationship was a source of inspiration and emotional support for both of them.

2) Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

The question of identity confusion between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West is complex and multifaceted. Both women had intricate personal lives and identities that were shaped by their experiences, relationships, and the societal norms of their time.

Virginia Woolf: Virginia Woolf was a renowned writer and a central figure in the intellectual circle known as the Bloomsbury Group. She was married to Leonard Woolf, a politically active left-wing writer1. However, she also had a romantic relationship with Vita Sackville-West. This relationship, along with her innovative literary style, has led some critics to suggest that Woolf may have grappled with her sexual identity.

Vita Sackville-West: Vita Sackville-West was a popular writer from an aristocratic family. She was married to Harold Nicolson, a diplomat, but like Woolf, she too had relationships with other women. Her relationship with Virginia Woolf was particularly significant, and it inspired one of Woolf’s most celebrated works, the novel "Orlando". Sackville-West’s experiences and relationships suggest that she too might have faced questions about her identity.

In conclusion, both Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West had complex identities that were influenced by their personal relationships and societal norms. Their identities were not fixed but fluid, and they both navigated the complexities of their identities in their own ways. It’s important to note that any discussion of their identities should be grounded in historical context and respect for their personal experiences.

3)  What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

In the movie “Virginia and Vita”, society’s views on women and identity are depicted through the characters of Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West. The film is set in the 1920s, a time when societal norms were quite rigid.

Vita Sackville-West, portrayed as a successful writer and aristocratic socialite, is known for her strong will, sense of adventure, and numerous love affairs, particularly with women. This was much to the chagrin of her mother and society at large, which held conservative views about women’s roles and identities.

Virginia Woolf, on the other hand, is depicted as an ethereal and well-spoken bohemian writer. Her genius is often explained away as madness by society, reflecting the societal tendency to dismiss women’s intellectual capabilities.

according to my own personal emotions and it’s clear that the societal views depicted in the movie were restrictive and biased. The characters of Virginia and Vita challenge these norms, showcasing the complexity and diversity of women’s identities. Their story serves as a reminder of the progress made in societal attitudes towards women and identity, while also highlighting the challenges that still exist.

4) Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

The movie “Virginia and Vita” provides a fascinating glimpse into the society of 1920s England, a period marked by significant societal changes. The film is set amidst the bohemian high society of this era, a time when traditional norms were being challenged and a new wave of intellectual and artistic freedom was emerging. This was a society that was grappling with the tension between tradition and progress, a tension that was reflected in the lives of the characters in the film.

One of the key aspects of this society was the Bloomsbury Group, an informal collective that included Virginia Woolf, Vita Sackville-West, and other notable literary figures of the time. This group was known for its progressive views on art, literature, and society, and it played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the era. However, despite the progressive views of groups like the Bloomsbury Group, the society of the 1920s was still marked by rigid views on women’s roles. Women were expected to conform to certain norms, and their intellectual capabilities were often dismissed. This is reflected in the movie through the character of Virginia Woolf, who, despite her immense talent and intellect, had to struggle against societal expectations and prejudices.

Another interesting aspect of the society depicted in the movie is the unconventional lifestyles of some of its characters. Both Virginia and Vita were in open marriages, something that was quite unusual for the time. This reflects the non-traditional lifestyles that were being explored by some individuals within the high society, further highlighting the tension between tradition and progress that characterized this era.

The era was also marked by a rich literary output, with Virginia Woolf’s novel “Orlando”, which was based on Vita Sackville-West, being a notable work from this period. This novel, like the movie, explores themes of gender, identity, and societal norms, providing a commentary on the society of the time.

Finally, it’s worth noting the progressive political views that were held by some individuals during this era. Virginia Woolf, for instance, had strong views in support of feminism and pacifism, and she spoke out against colonialism. These views were quite progressive for the time, but they were also met with resistance from the society, further highlighting the complexities and contradictions of this fascinating period.

In conclusion, the society during the era of “Virginia and Vita” was a complex mix of traditional norms and progressive ideas. The movie provides a fascinating glimpse into this society, highlighting the tensions, contradictions, and complexities of this era. It’s a society that, despite its flaws and contradictions, produced some of the most influential literary works of the 20th century and left a lasting impact on the world.

5) Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

The direction of the movie “Virginia and Vita” is commendable for its ability to capture the nuances of the era and the complexities of the characters’ lives. The director skillfully uses visual storytelling to convey the emotional depth of the characters and the societal context in which they lived. The film’s pacing, framing, and cinematography all contribute to creating a vivid and immersive portrayal of 1920s England.

One of the most striking symbols in the movie is the use of mirrors. Mirrors are often used to reflect Virginia’s introspective nature and her struggle with mental health. They serve as a metaphor for self-reflection and introspection, highlighting Virginia’s internal conflicts and her quest for self-understanding.

The use of space in the movie is also noteworthy. The contrast between the confined spaces of Virginia’s home and the open landscapes of Vita’s ancestral estate symbolizes the contrast between their lives. Virginia’s life is marked by restrictions and societal expectations, while Vita enjoys a certain degree of freedom and independence. This contrast is further emphasized by the director’s use of lighting and color schemes, with Virginia’s scenes often characterized by a darker, more subdued palette, and Vita’s scenes featuring brighter, more vibrant colors.

In conclusion, the direction of “Virginia and Vita” is effective in bringing the characters and their era to life. The use of symbols and space in the movie adds depth to the narrative and enhances the portrayal of the characters and their societal context. The movie serves as a compelling exploration of the lives of two remarkable women and the society in which they lived.

6) "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?

In a Bollywood adaptation of “Vita and Virginia”, the casting would need to reflect the depth and complexity of the characters. For the role of Virginia Woolf, an actress like Vidya Balan could be a suitable choice. Known for her nuanced performances and ability to portray complex characters, Vidya Balan could effectively capture Virginia’s introspective nature and intellectual prowess.

For the role of Vita Sackville-West, an actress like Priyanka Chopra Jonas might be a fitting choice. Her strong screen presence and versatility as an actress would allow her to embody Vita’s charisma and independence.

Both actresses have proven their acting prowess in various roles and genres, and their pairing could bring a fresh perspective to the intriguing relationship between Virginia and Vita. However, the final casting decision would depend on various factors including the vision of the director and the chemistry between the actors.

THANK YOU!

On Yeats's poems (Thinking Activity)

Hello, readers. I'm Priyanshi! And also, a student of English literature and a fan of W.B. Yeats, one of the greatest poets of the 20th century. In this blog post, I will discuss two of his poems that reflect his views on war and its impact on society: “The Second Coming” and “On Being Asked for a War Poem”. These poems were written in the aftermath of the First World War and the Irish War of Independence, which Yeats witnessed and participated in. They express his disillusionment with the violence and chaos of the modern world, and his longing for a spiritual and cultural renewal. I will analyze the themes, symbols, and imagery of these poems, and compare and contrast them with each other and with other works by Yeats.

In-depth Analysis of W.B. Yeats’s Poems

1. The Second Coming


“The Second Coming” is one of Yeats’s most famous poems, written in 1919, soon after the end of World War I. The poem describes a world of chaos, confusion, and pain, and the speaker’s vision of the future. This vision replaces the Christian idea of the Second Coming—Jesus’s prophesied return to the Earth as a savior—with the arrival of a grotesque beast. The poem is often considered an allegory for the fraught times Yeats was living in.

The first stanza describes a world falling apart, where “the center cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world”. The falcon, a symbol of order and control, has lost its connection with the falconer, representing the loss of control and the descent into chaos. The “blood-dimmed tide” and the “ceremony of innocence” being drowned evoke images of violence and the loss of innocence.

The second stanza imagines the speaker receiving a vision of a grotesque beast, a “shape with lion body and the head of a man,” moving its slow thighs. This beast, its hour come round at last, slouches towards Bethlehem to be born. The image of the beast slouching towards Bethlehem suggests the arrival of a new era, but one that is far from the salvation traditionally associated with Bethlehem.

Interpretation: The poem reflects the disillusionment and chaos that followed World War I. The falcon losing connection with the falconer symbolizes the loss of control and the descent into chaos. The “rough beast” could symbolize the destructive forces unleashed by the war. The poem can be seen as a critique of the devastation caused by war and a warning about the consequences of unchecked power and violence.

2. On Being Asked for a War Poem


This poem was Yeats’s response to a request by Henry James for a political poem about World War I. In the poem, Yeats states that it is better for a “poet to keep his mouth shut” than to enter into debates about wars and politics. He feels that a poet should speak only about traditional lyric subjects and leave the war to soldiers and politicians.

The poem reflects Yeats’s belief in the power of poetry to transcend the immediate realities of war and politics. He suggests that poets lack the authority or expertise to offer meaningful insights into political matters. Their true purpose lies in providing solace and comfort to individuals, rather than engaging in political debates.

Interpretation: Yeats seems to suggest that poets lack the authority or expertise to offer meaningful insights into political matters. Their true purpose lies in providing solace and comfort to individuals. The poem reflects Yeats’s belief in the power of poetry to transcend the immediate realities of war and politics.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, both poems reflect Yeats’s response to the tumultuous times he was living in. While “The Second Coming” presents a bleak vision of a world in chaos, “On Being Asked for a War Poem” underscores the poet’s role as a beacon of comfort and solace in troubled times. The poems serve as a reminder of the power of poetry to capture the complexities of human experience and the enduring relevance of Yeats’s work.

Understanding the Zeitgeist of the 20th Century: From Modern Times to the era of Great Dictators

 Hello, I’m Priyanshi and also an ardent admirer of the 20th Century, a period that witnessed a whirlwind of changes. This era, marked by the rapid pace of industrialization, the widening rich-poor divide, and the rise of dictators, has always intrigued me. I’m particularly fascinated by the behavioral patterns of the dictators of this time, their rise to power, and their impact on society. My interest extends to the realm of cinema, especially the works of Charlie Chaplin. His films, such as ‘Modern Times’ and ‘The Great Dictator’, serve as a mirror to the socio-economic and political landscape of the 20th Century. They provide a profound understanding of the era, making them an excellent teaching tool for anyone keen to delve into the intricacies of this period.

  Through this blog, I aim to explore these themes in depth, drawing connections between the setting of the time and the literature it inspired. Join me as we journey through the tumultuous yet fascinating first half of the 20th Century. Let’s unravel the complexities of this era together. 

INTRODUCTION:


Modern Times (1936): “Modern Times” is a part-talkie social comedy film written, directed, and produced by Charlie Chaplin. In this film, Chaplin’s iconic Little Tramp character, in his last performance, struggles to survive in the modern, industrialized world. The film is set during the Great Depression and centers on a luckless factory worker (played by Chaplin) who finds himself at odds with modern technology. The film was one of the first 25 films selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the United States National Film Registry for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".


The Great Dictator (1940): “The Great Dictator” is an anti-war political satire black comedy film also written, directed, produced, scored by, and starring Charlie Chaplin. In this film, Chaplin plays both leading roles: a ruthless fascist dictator and a persecuted Jewish barber. The film advanced a stirring condemnation of Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, fascism, antisemitism, and the Nazis. The film was popular with audiences, becoming Chaplin’s most commercially successful film. Chaplin’s climactic monologue in the film has been praised as perhaps the greatest monologue in film history.

Charlie Chaplin’s Films and the 20th Century Setting

Charlie Chaplin’s films, particularly ‘Modern Times’ and ‘The Great Dictator’, serve as a profound critique of the socio-economic and political landscape of the first half of the 20th century.

Industrialization and Mechanization:


‘Modern Times’ is a critique of the industrialized world. The film depicts the dehumanizing effect of the assembly line on the workers, turning them into mere cogs in the machine. This reflects the concerns of the time about the loss of individuality and craftsmanship due to mass production. The mechanization of human beings under the influence of industrialization is a central theme in the film. It portrays the threat to the death of craftsmanship by mass production at the assembly lines.

Rich-Poor Divide:


Both films highlight the growing disparity between the rich and the poor. The capitalist promise of equal opportunity is shown to be flawed, leading to a wider gap between the wealthy and the impoverished. The films depict the struggle of humans to get basic amenities like food, shelter, and clothing amidst the growing richness of nations. They critique the capitalist promise of providing equal opportunity to all going wrong and hence making the poor poorer and the rich richer.

Dictators and Propaganda:

‘The Great Dictator’ is a direct satire on Adolf Hitler and fascism. The film showcases the manipulative tactics used by dictators to control and mislead the masses through propaganda. It portrays the gimmicks played by world leaders to dissuade their people through propaganda. The film also critiques the egoistic leadership leading towards the massacre of human lives in war.

War and Human Rights:


The films also touch upon the devastating impact of war, the violation of human rights, and the ghettoization of minorities. They underscore the need for peace, freedom, and basic human dignity. The films depict the curbing of basic human rights and the ghettoization of minorities.

Leadership and Rhetoric:


Chaplin’s portrayal of the dictator in ‘The Great Dictator’ highlights the use of rhetoric by leaders to sway public opinion. The gibberish speech in the film symbolizes the often-empty promises made by such leaders. The film portrays the blinding of the minds of the herd/mass/crowd with the help of rhetorical speeches, the words of which are nothing more than gibberish.

In essence, Chaplin’s films serve as a mirror to the era, reflecting the zeitgeist of the first half of the 20th century. They offer valuable insights into the period’s socio-economic-religio-cultural setting, making them an effective tool for understanding the literature and history of the time. The understanding of literature is incomplete if it is not connected with the setting of the time in which it is written. The understanding of the socio-economic-religio-cultural setting is a must for a deeper understanding of the literary text. When it comes to teaching the first half of the Twentieth Century, Charlie Chaplin’s films are the best to serve this purpose. The films like ‘Modern Times’ and ‘The Great Dictator’ serve the purpose and students can get an ‘easy’ understanding of the ‘esoteric’ nature of the literature. They help not only to understand the zeitgeist of the first fifty years of the last century but also to understand the time in which we live.

THANK YOU!!

Bob Dylan and Robert Frost

 Hello everyone! welcome to my blog! I am a passionate admirer of the lyrical genius of Bob Dylan and the poetic brilliance of Robert Frost. Their profound and evocative words have always resonated with me, inspiring me to delve deeper into the realms of poetry and songwriting and this blog was the part of the thinking activity which was given by Vaidehi ma'am.


Thinking Activity:


1.) Which is your favorite Poet/Lyricist? Why?

  Bob Dylan is renowned for his profound and poetic song lyrics. He moved from folk to rock music in the 1960s, infusing the lyrics of rock and roll with the intellectualism of classic literature and poetry. Dylan sold tens of millions of albums, wrote more than 500 songs recorded by more than 2,000 artists, performed all over the world, and set the standard for lyric writing. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016. His music has been credited with helping to bring folk music to the forefront of popular culture, and his songwriting has been highly influential. His work has been widely read and widely interpreted by many leading literary figures.

 Robert Frost is celebrated for his evocative and contemplative poetry. He was much admired for his depictions of the rural life of New England, his command of American colloquial speech, and his realistic verse portraying ordinary people in everyday situations. Frost contributed to American literature by blending traditional poetic forms with a modern sensibility. His accessible language, narrative style, and effective use of irony resonated with a wide audience. Frost’s impact extends beyond awards, influencing education and establishing him as a cultural icon. His work was widely read and widely interpreted by many leading literary figures.

Both Dylan and Frost have had a profound impact on their audiences and continue to be influential figures in literature and music. Their works are studied and appreciated by many for their depth, creativity, and relevance.

As my personal perspectives and my own point of view that I prefer as my favorite artist is Bob Dylan because he is considered a great poet and lyricist due to his verbal dexterity, insightful social commentary, influence on other artists, creation of new poetic expressions, and his ability to marry words and music effectively. His work has significantly shaped the landscape of music and literature.


2.) Share some lines from the Bob Dylan songs that you feel are relatable to you. Also, write the themes visible in those lines.


“Like a Rolling Stone” is a song by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, released on July 20, 1965, by Columbia Records. The confrontational lyrics originated in an extended piece of verse Dylan wrote in June 1965, when he returned exhausted from a grueling tour of England. Dylan distilled this draft into four verses and a chorus.

The song marked a significant departure from Dylan’s earlier folk music, signaling his move towards rock music. It was recorded as part of the sessions for the forthcoming album Highway 61 Revisited. The track is known for its signature Hammond B2 organ riff, improvised by rookie session musician Al Kooper. Despite initial hesitation from Columbia Records due to the song’s length and its heavy electric sound, “Like a Rolling Stone” became a worldwide hit, reaching No. 2 in the US Billboard charts. It is considered one of the most influential compositions in postwar popular music and was listed at No. 1 on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” lists.

The lyrics “Once upon a time you dressed so fine / You threw the bums a dime in your prime, didn’t you?” from Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” are rich in meaning and themes and I feel it.

Interpretation: These lines depict a person who was once well-off and generous, living their life in prosperity. The phrase “dressed so fine” suggests a high social status or wealth, while “threw the bums a dime” indicates a sense of carefree generosity that often accompanies such affluence. The question “didn’t you?” at the end adds a touch of irony, implying a significant change in circumstances.

Themes:

  1. Change in Fortune: The lyrics strongly hint at a reversal of fortune. They paint a picture of past affluence, suggesting that the person’s current state is a stark contrast to their prime. This theme is a reminder of the transient nature of material wealth and the unpredictability of life.

  2. Pride and Downfall: The lines also touch upon the theme of pride and downfall. The person used to take pride in their appearance and their ability to give away money casually. However, the use of past tense indicates that this is no longer the case, hinting at a fall from grace.

  3. Reflection and Realization: The rhetorical question “didn’t you?” prompts reflection and realization. It serves as a mirror, forcing the person to confront the reality of their changed circumstances. This theme explores the human capacity for introspection and personal growth in the face of adversity.


3.) Share some lines from the Robert Frost poems that you feel are relatable to you. Also, write the themes visible in those lines.

 the first stanza of “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost:

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth;

 Explanation:

In this stanza, the speaker comes across two roads diverging in a yellow wood, symbolizing a point in life where he must make a choice. The “yellow wood” suggests that it is autumn, a time often associated with change. The speaker expresses regret that he cannot travel both roads. This reflects the human condition of having to make choices in life and not being able to experience all possible outcomes. The phrase “And be one traveler” emphasizes the speaker’s solitude in this decision-making process.

The speaker spends a long time contemplating his decision, looking down one road as far as he can see. However, the road bends into the undergrowth, suggesting that the future is uncertain and outcomes of our decisions are often unknown until we experience them. This stanza sets the stage for the speaker’s decision-making process, introducing the central metaphor of the poem: life is a journey, and we must make choices about which paths to take. The speaker’s contemplation reflects our own struggles with decision-making and the fear of potential regret.

Themes in the Stanza:

  1. Individual Choices: The speaker’s dilemma of choosing between two roads represents the theme of individual choices. This theme reflects the human condition of making choices and living with their consequences.

  2. Permanence of Decisions: The speaker’s regret about not being able to travel both roads underscores the theme of the permanence of decisions. Once a choice is made, it’s often impossible to go back and choose differently.

  3. Uniqueness and Narrative: The speaker’s unique experience and the narrative he constructs from it is another theme present in this stanza. His contemplation and eventual decision contribute to his unique narrative.



4)  share some lines of any songs from Movies, Poems, or any type of music you feel is relatable to the theme of songs by Bob Dylan and poems by Robert Frost. 

 here are some lines from a song and a poem that echo the themes often found in Bob Dylan’s songs and Robert Frost’s poems:

Song: “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan

How many roads must a man walk down
Before you call him a man?
Yes, 'n' how many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand?
Yes, 'n' how many times must the cannonballs fly
Before they're forever banned?
The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind
The answer is blowin' in the wind

Poem: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Both these pieces reflect on life’s journey, choices, and the quest for understanding, themes commonly found in the works of both Bob Dylan and Robert Frost.


THANK YOU!!


Movie Review: 12th Fail #RESTART

 Greetings, fellow film lovers! I’m an ardent movie buff with a penchant for dissecting the nuances of cinematic storytelling. I find joy in sharing my perspectives on films with you all. Today, we’ll be exploring the depths of the movie “12th Fail”. Get ready for a comprehensive review and my personal insights on this film. Let’s embark on this cinematic journey together! Stay tuned!

Movie Review: 12th Fail


Introduction

“12th Fail” is a compelling tale of resilience and determination that leaves a lasting impression. Directed and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the film is based on the true story of an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who, despite failing his 12th-grade exams, overcomes numerous obstacles to achieve his dream.

Synopsis:

The film tells the inspiring story of Manoj Kumar Sharma (played by Vikrant Massey), a young man from a village in Chambal, Madhya Pradesh. After failing his 12th-grade exams due to the introduction of stricter rules against cheating, Manoj moves to Delhi to prepare for the Civil Services examination. Despite his lack of academic acumen, Manoj is driven by a burning desire to serve his country.

“12th Fail” is a top-class film that will leave you impressed and inspired. The narrative is engaging, drawing the viewer into Manoj’s journey as he navigates various challenges, including juggling menial jobs while studying for the UPSC exams. The film effectively portrays Manoj’s struggles and his determination to succeed, making the audience feel deeply invested in his journey.

The performances are commendable, with Vikrant Massey delivering a powerful portrayal of Manoj. His performance captures the character’s range of emotions, from agitation and helplessness to determination. Priyanshu Chatterjee also shines in his brief role as Dushyant Singh, an honest and brave DCP.

The film subtly touches upon societal issues such as the corrupt political system that seeks to keep the youth uninformed and easily manipulated. It also highlights the importance of education and the power it holds to change one’s life.

Theoretical Framework: 

“12th Fail” is a cinematic masterpiece that goes beyond conventional standards, offering a rich tapestry of cinematic elements that align with and challenge various film studies theories.

Cinematic Realism

The film aligns with the theory of cinematic realism, presenting an authentic portrayal of a UPSC aspirant’s life. The scenes depicting the protagonist’s struggles, from finding his first job at a library to cleaning a toilet, evoke empathy, making the audience feel the weight of his hardships.

Narrative Complexity

The film also explores narrative complexity, a theory that emphasizes the importance of intricate storytelling. The narrative unfolds as the protagonist’s friend, initially helpful, reveals his reluctance to see him progress. This plot twist adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the harsh realities of societal dynamics.

Cinematic Choices

The director’s cinematic choices, such as contrasting camera angles and lighting, amplify the emotional impact of key scenes. These choices highlight the director’s mastery, elevating each shot to a larger-than-life status.

Challenges to Conventional Cinema

While aligning with these theories, “12th Fail” also challenges conventional cinema. Despite its pacing issues and convoluted screenplay, the film manages to resonate with audiences. It demonstrates that a strong script can compensate for shortcomings in other aspects, challenging the notion that a successful film must adhere to a specific formula.

Contextualization:

“12th Fail” is a biographical drama that explores the life of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a man who overcame extreme poverty to become an Indian Police Service officer. The film resonates deeply with audiences as it addresses pressing issues like education, perseverance, and societal pressure on academic failures. It places itself within the broader discourse of the Indian education system and government jobs, reflecting the aspirations of many young Indians.

Thematic Study:

The film weaves a story that blends themes of success, hard work, determination, and overcoming adversity. The protagonist, hailing from modest financial means and lacking academic brilliance, faces the setback of failing his 12th standard exam. However, guided by a local public service officer, he learns the invaluable lesson that honesty is the path to progress. These themes contribute to the overall narrative and societal commentary, offering a compelling depiction of resilience in the face of adversity.

Comparative Analysis:

Comparing “12th Fail” with “Dasvi”, a Hindi-language comedy-drama film about the importance of education, we see some similarities and differences. Both films highlight the significance of education and depict protagonists who strive to overcome their educational shortcomings. However, while “12th Fail” is a serious biographical drama, “Dasvi” adopts a more light-hearted tone and storyline. The cultural significance of each film lies in their portrayal of the struggles and triumphs associated with education in India.

Conclusion:

“12th Fail” is a tribute to innumerable Indians who have to fight through extreme impoverishment while bearing the responsibility of their families, and then ultimately make it big in life. The film’s impact and relevance lie in its authentic portrayal of the protagonist’s journey, its exploration of societal pressures, and its emphasis on the power of education and perseverance. It serves as an inspiration for many, especially students working towards a better future.

References :


Wikipedia contributors. (2024, March 7). 12th Fail. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 15:10, March 10, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=12th_Fail&oldid=1212314365

https://bnnbreaking.com/arts/bollywood/12th-fail-a-true-story-of-struggle-and-success-thats-resonating-across-india/

https://thecinemaholic.com/12th-fail-true-story/

https://medium.com/@omninos22/navigating-exam-stress-lessons-from-12th-fail-movie-5c894ddd30a2

https://dmtalkies.com/12th-fail-summary-ending-explained-2023-film-vidhu-vinod-chopra/

https://serenewriter.com/animal-vs-12th-fail-a-tale-of-stories-and-messages/

12th Fail – An Inspirational Movie| Countercurrents

Assignment: 4 What is Plagiarism? Its Consequences and Forms

This blog is part of an assignment for Paper 209 - Research Methodology  - Sem - 4, 2025. What is Plagiarism? Its Consequences and Forms TAB...