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

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