A gripping portrayal of UPSC aspirants’ struggles, the film resonates globally with its stellar performances and impactful storytelling.
12th Fail directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra
In a dazzling celebration of cinematic excellence, the 69th Filmfare Awards took the audience by storm as ’12th Fail’ emerged as the shining star, securing the coveted Best Film Honor. The glittering ‘Black Lady’ trophy found its way into the hands of the talented team behind this masterpiece, with actors Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar basking in the glory of their triumph.
Directed by the visionary Vidhu Vinod Chopra, ’12th Fail’ weaves a compelling narrative inspired by the real-life experiences of IPS officer Manoj Kumar, unraveling the untold stories of UPSC aspirants. The film artfully captures the challenging journey of millions of students striving to conquer the hurdles of the UPSC entrance exam.
The spotlight not only illuminated the film but also singled out Vikrant Massey for his outstanding portrayal, earning him the Best Actor (Critics) award at the gala held in Gujarat. Massey’s performance was nothing short of stellar, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of both critics and audiences alike.
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’12th Fail,’ which premiered globally on October 27, resonated with viewers and industry luminaries, garnering widespread acclaim. The film’s success at the Filmfare Awards, where it received a staggering 12 nominations and clinched 5 prestigious awards, further underscores its profound impact on the cinematic landscape.
Shot across diverse locations such as Agra, Chambal, Delhi, Mussoorie, and Mumbai, the film captures the essence of the challenging journey portrayed on screen. Rajendra Nagar and Mukherjee Nagar, known as education hubs for government job aspirants, served as pivotal settings for a significant portion of the movie.
The cinematic gem, released theatrically on October 27, 2023, not only garnered critical acclaim but also emerged as a sleeper hit, surpassing expectations by grossing over ₹66 crore (US$8.3 million) worldwide on a budget of ₹20 crore (US$2.5 million).
Adding to its triumph, ’12th Fail’ started streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from December 29, 2023, extending its reach to a broader audience.
As the curtain fell on the 69th Filmfare Awards, ’12th Fail’ stood tall, a testament to its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and its ability to strike a chord with audiences worldwide. The film’s journey from the script to the screen is not just a success story; it’s a celebration of resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream against all odds.
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