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Movie Storyline

Background and Initial Setback

Manoj Kumar Sharma, hailing from Chambal village where exam cheating is rampant, initially fails his 12th standard exams due to a crackdown on malpractice by DSP Dushyant Singh. This failure leads him to work with his brother, facing challenges that inspire him to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Determination and Academic Pursuits

Undeterred by his initial failure, Manoj clears his 12th exams without cheating and enrolls in a Bachelor of Arts program, aiming to become a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). Financial hardships and systemic obstacles, including the suspension of Group I exams, compel him to shift his focus towards the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations.

Struggles in Delhi

In Delhi, Manoj faces numerous challenges, including financial constraints and the competitive nature of UPSC preparations. With the support of fellow aspirants like Gauri Bhaiya, who opens a tea shop named "Restart" to assist others, Manoj perseveres through multiple attempts, learning from each failure.

Personal Relationships and Growth

During his journey, Manoj develops a romantic relationship with Shraddha Joshi, a UKPSC aspirant. Misunderstandings and personal revelations test their bond, but they eventually reconcile, providing mutual support in their respective pursuits of civil service positions.

Ultimate Success and Fulfillment

Through unwavering determination and resilience, Manoj successfully clears the UPSC examinations, achieving his goal of becoming an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. He marries Shraddha, who also attains a position as a Deputy Collector, and they both embark on their professional careers, embodying the film's central theme of perseverance leading to success.

"12th Fail" is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language biographical drama directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, based on Anurag Pathak's 2019 book. The film narrates the inspiring journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcomes significant challenges to become an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. Here are the main events of the film:

Manoj's Early Life and Academic Setback

Manoj Kumar Sharma hails from Chambal, a region notorious for banditry. His father, an honest clerk, faces suspension after confronting a corrupt officer. Manoj, along with his peers, prepares cheat slips for the Class 12 exams, a practice tacitly supported by their teachers. However, the arrival of DSP Dushyant Singh, who enforces strict anti-cheating measures, leads to Manoj and his classmates failing the exam. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Struggles and Determination

To support his family, Manoj and his brother operate a traveling rickshaw. After his brother is falsely accused of smuggling alcohol, Manoj seeks help from DSP Dushyant Singh, who advises him to pursue his goals without resorting to dishonest means. Inspired, Manoj retakes his exams without cheating, passes, and enrolls in a Bachelor of Arts program, aiming to become a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Challenges in Higher Education

Manoj's journey to Gwalior for further studies is fraught with difficulties, including the theft of his belongings. He learns that the state government has suspended Group I exams for the next three years, thwarting his immediate plans. Undeterred, Manoj shifts his focus to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams and moves to Delhi to prepare for the civil services, aspiring to become an IPS officer. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Perseverance Amidst Setbacks

In Delhi, Manoj faces multiple challenges, including initial failures in the UPSC exams and personal setbacks. He meets Shraddha Joshi, a fellow aspirant, and they develop a close relationship. Despite enduring hardships, including working odd jobs to sustain himself, Manoj remains steadfast in his preparation, eventually clearing the preliminary and main examinations. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Achieving the Dream

Manoj's relentless dedication culminates in his success as he qualifies for the rank of IPS officer. He marries Shraddha, who also achieves her goal of becoming a Deputy Collector. The film concludes with Manoj expressing gratitude to DSP Dushyant Singh, whose earlier guidance played a pivotal role in his journey. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

"12th Fail" serves as a testament to resilience and integrity, highlighting the transformative power of education and determination in overcoming systemic challenges.

Positive Reviews

• Beautiful Cinematography: Praised for its stunning and evocative visuals.
• Strong Performances: Lead actors deliver emotionally compelling performances.
• Emotional Depth: Storyline resonates deeply with many viewers.
• Faithful Adaptation: Appreciated by fans of the original novel.
• Artistic Direction: Bold and unique cinematic approach applauded.

Neutral Reviews

• Slow Pacing: Works for some, but might feel tedious to others.
• Balanced Themes: Mix of romance and drama appeals to niche audiences.
• Niche Appeal: More suited for fans of period dramas.
• Predictable Storyline: Strong acting overshadows expected plot developments.
• Selective Resonance: Film has a specific audience in mind.

Negative Reviews

• Pacing Issues: Described as overly slow and uneventful by some viewers.
• Character Development: Lack of depth in secondary characters criticized.
• Narrative Flow: Complaints about fragmented and disjointed storytelling.
• Unresolved Plot Points: Some storylines felt incomplete or abandoned.
• Pretentious Style: Perceived as overly self-indulgent and inaccessible.

Positive Reviews

Touching Underdog Success Story

Critics have described "12th Fail" as a "nicely told, touching underdog success story," highlighting its well-executed narrative and high technical standards. [Source]

Vikrant Massey's Brilliant Performance

Vikrant Massey's portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma has been lauded as "brilliant," with reviewers noting his ability to bring a myriad of shades to his character, enhancing the film's emotional depth. [Source]

Inspiring and Relatable Narrative

The film's depiction of perseverance and resilience resonates with audiences, offering an inspiring narrative that reflects the struggles and triumphs of many, making it a "must-watch" for understanding the hardships of UPSC aspirants. [Source]

Neutral Reviews

Authentic Depiction of Aspirants' Struggles

Reviewers note that "12th Fail" provides an authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by civil service aspirants, shedding light on the education system's demands, though some feel it adheres closely to familiar narratives. [Source]

Minimalistic Background Score

The film's background score is described as minimalistic yet poignant, complementing the unostentatious performances, though it may not fully compensate for perceived storytelling gaps. [Source]

Negative Reviews

Overemphasis on Inspirational Elements

Some critics argue that the film focuses excessively on its inspirational aspects, potentially overshadowing other narrative elements and leading to a somewhat predictable storyline. [Source]

Potential for Deeper Character Development

While the film succeeds in portraying a compelling journey, there is a sentiment that deeper character development could have enriched the narrative, providing a more nuanced exploration of the protagonist's experiences. [Source]