The recently released Telugu version of the Bollywood blockbuster, “12th Fail,” starring Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar in lead roles and directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, has garnered attention. Let’s delve into the film.
Synopsis:
“12th Fail” draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Manoj Kumar Sharma, an IPS officer hailing from a humble background in Chambal. Raised amidst financial struggles, Manoj’s father faces suspension for his unwavering honesty at work. The narrative unfolds as Manoj navigates a school environment where malpractice is encouraged during exams. The pivotal arrest of the headmaster by DSP Dushyant (Priyanshu Chatterjee) becomes a turning point. Dushyant imparts the value of honesty to Manoj, igniting a belief that an honest officer can instigate societal change. The film explores Manoj’s journey to success and the challenges he confronts.
Highlights:
The brilliance of the film lies in its engaging screenplay, skillfully crafted by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The narrative seamlessly blends elements of humor and emotion, offering gratifying moments. Vikrant Massey’s portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma stands out as a major asset. His earnest performance elevates the film, making it a game-changer for him. Supported admirably by Medha Shankar, the real-life couple’s chemistry shines through, particularly in the poignant final interview scene. The supporting cast, including Anant Vijay Joshi, Saritha Joshi, Vikas Divyakirti, and Anshuman Pushkar, deliver commendable performances.
Areas for Improvement:
Despite its strengths, “12th Fail” grapples with pacing issues, with occasional slowdowns in the proceedings. Crisper editing could have heightened the impact. Predictability becomes a factor, a common challenge in this genre. The initial moments of the second half lack vigor, and the conflict between the lead pair could have been presented more effectively. The film’s emphasis on the necessity of honest officers may not resonate with those seeking commercial elements. The continuous voiceover, even for minor details, could have been toned down.
Technical Aspects:
Shantanu Moitra’s music, especially the Telugu lyrics, adds value to the film. The Telugu dubbing team deserves praise for seamlessly integrating the dubbed version. Cinematographer Rangarajan Ramabadran effectively transports viewers into Manoj Kumar Sharma’s world. While the editing could have been crisper, the production values remain commendable.
Director’s Perspective:
Vidhu Vinod Chopra successfully infuses humor and emotions into this real-life saga, extracting terrific performances from the cast. While the director’s skill is evident, a few scenes in the second half could have been refined.
Verdict:
“12th Fail” emerges as a sincere portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma’s inspiring journey as an IPS officer. Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar deliver noteworthy performances, complemented by heartwarming moments. Despite pacing issues and predictability, the film stays true to its purpose. If you appreciate real-life inspiring stories, “12th Fail” is worth a watch this weekend.