12th Fail is an inspiring cinematic journey that celebrates resilience, determination, and the courage to start over in the face of adversity. Based on the true story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, the film dives deep into the struggles and triumphs of a young man determined to overcome societal, financial, and personal challenges to achieve his dream. Without revealing too much, this is a story that will connect with anyone who has ever dared to chase an impossible goal, reminding us that setbacks are not the end but an opportunity for a new beginning.

Film Title | 12th Fail |
Genre | Drama |
Directed by | Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
Written by | β |
Release Date | 27/10/2023 |
Starring | Vikrant Massey, Medha Shankr, Anant Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Geeta Agrawal Sharma, Harish Khanna, Vikas Divyakirti, Sarita Joshi |
Language | Hindi |
12th Fail captures the essence of persistence against all odds, focusing on a journey where failure is not a deterrent but a stepping stone to success. The filmβs tone is motivational, layered with moments of struggle, friendship, and unwavering hope. It reflects the reality of millions of students preparing for Indiaβs toughest exam, the UPSC, and offers a peek into the emotional and physical battles they endure.
The movie appeals to students, dreamers, and anyone facing a tough road toward their ambitions. It resonates with audiences by portraying the value of self-belief, hard work, and the refusal to quit. With its grounded storytelling and relatable characters, 12th Fail becomes more than just a movieβit becomes an emotional experience and a lesson in perseverance.





Story and Cast Details
The film follows Manoj Kumar Sharma, a young man from a small town whose life takes a drastic turn when academic failure threatens to end his dreams. Instead of giving up, Manoj decides to restart his academic journey, taking on the immense challenge of preparing for the UPSC examβa test known for its brutal difficulty and intense competition. His path is filled with personal struggles, societal pressures, and the constant fight to keep hope alive.
Vikrant Massey delivers a career-defining performance, bringing authenticity, vulnerability, and strength to Manojβs character. Medha Shankr shines as his emotional anchor, adding warmth and depth to the story. The supporting cast, including Anant Joshi and Anshumaan Pushkar, add realism and charm to the narrative, while Priyanshu Chatterjee and Vikas Divyakirti deliver memorable performances. Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra crafts an inspiring, heartfelt tale with a perfect blend of drama and motivation, making each scene impactful and relatable.
12th Fail is more than just the story of an individual; it is the story of countless aspirants who face adversity with unshakable determination and courage.
Conclusion
With its inspiring message, stellar performances, and grounded storytelling, 12th Fail stands as a must-watch for anyone chasing a dream. It is a reminder that failure is not the opposite of success but an essential part of the journey toward achieving it.