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12th Fail

12th Fail is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language biographical drama film written, directed and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

12th Fail is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language biographical drama film written, directed and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. It is based on Anurag Pathak’s non-fiction book about Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame poverty and early academic failure to become an Indian Police Service officer.

Premise

The film portrays Manoj Kumar Sharma’s journey from a poor background in Chambal to attempting India’s civil service examinations. It focuses on perseverance, education, and social mobility.

Production

12th Fail was announced in November 2022 and is based on Anurag Pathak’s book of the same name. Vidhu Vinod Chopra served as director, producer, and co-writer.

Release and reception

The film premiered in cinemas on 27 October 2023 and was later made available on streaming platforms. Critics praised its performances and inspirational tone, and it performed strongly at the box office relative to its budget.

Cast

Vikrant Massey plays Manoj Kumar Sharma, with Medha Shankar appearing as Shraddha Joshi. The ensemble also includes Anantvijay Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Geeta Agarwal Sharma, Harish Khanna and others.

Key facts

  • 12th Fail is a 2023 Hindi biographical drama based on the true story of Manoj Kumar Sharma.
  • The film was directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and is based on Anurag Pathak’s book.
  • It was released theatrically on 27 October 2023 and became a sleeper hit.
  • The film grossed over ₹69 crore worldwide on a budget of about ₹20 crore.
  • It is available to Canadian audiences through international streaming and film-distribution platforms.
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Canadian context

The film is available to Canadian audiences through international streaming and film-distribution platforms, and it may be of interest to viewers following Indian cinema and inspirational biographical dramas.

Frequently asked questions

What is 12th Fail about?
It is a biographical drama about Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcomes hardship and repeated academic setbacks to pursue the UPSC civil service exams and become an IPS officer.
Who directed 12th Fail?
Vidhu Vinod Chopra directed the film.
What is 12th Fail based on?
It is based on Anurag Pathak’s non-fiction book about Manoj Kumar Sharma.
When was 12th Fail released?
It was released theatrically on 27 October 2023.
Who stars in 12th Fail?
The film stars Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar, with Anantvijay Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar and Priyanshu Chatterjee in supporting roles.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12th_Fail
    Supports: Basic film identification, plot basis, release date, cast, budget and box office
  2. The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vidhu-vinod-chopras-12th-fail-starring-vikrant-massey-locks-release-date/article67180230.ece
    Supports: Release date, source material, cast, and production details
  3. NDTV — https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/12th-fail-review-a-gentle-little-film-that-stays-true-to-its-purpose-3-5-stars-4518068
    Supports: Film premise, thematic focus, and critical reception
  4. The Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/film/2023/oct/24/12th-fail-review-indian-exam-yarn-offers-hope-on-overcoming-corruption-and-poverty
    Supports: Narrative focus and premiere timing
  5. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/81761732
    Supports: Streaming availability, synopsis, and cast listing