Vishal Bhardwaj commends filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra for the unexpected success of “12th Fail,” a film that defied industry expectations by performing remarkably well in the midst of a trend favoring spectacle cinema. Despite its modest budget of Rs 20 crore, the movie, starring Vikrant Massey, premiered in cinemas in October and continues to draw audiences even after its availability on OTT platforms, amassing over Rs 70 crore at the box office.
Vishal Bhardwaj views the triumph of “12th Fail” as a positive development, highlighting its lack of star power or gimmicks and praising its beautiful background score as examples of pure filmmaking by Chopra, whom he regards as delivering his best work in this film.
Vishal Bhardwaj talks about ‘Independent cinema’
Vishal Bhardwaj notes the progression and subsequent regression of independent cinema, prompting exploration into the factors responsible for this shift.
Reflecting on the film’s success and audience reception, Bhardwaj sees it as evidence that audiences are willing to embrace diverse content, provided it offers genuine value for their theater experience.
He notes the ongoing exploration within the industry regarding the viability of various film genres, from intense dramas like “Animal” to patriotic films like “Jawan” or big-budget spectacles like “Pathaan,” alongside the popularity of mindless action films from the South Indian cinema. Bhardwaj suggests a sense of imbalance in the current landscape, prompting further inquiry and adaptation within the industry.
Vishal Bhardwaj commended filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra for the success of “12th Fail,” a film that defied industry expectations by performing exceptionally well during a time dominated by spectacle cinema. Despite having a reported budget of ₹20 crore, the movie starring Vikrant Massey was released in theaters in October and continues to attract audiences even after its availability on OTT platforms. Impressively, it has grossed over ₹70 crore at the box office, surpassing predictions and demonstrating its enduring popularity.
About 12th Fail 
Manoj Kumar Sharma belongs to Chambal village where cheating in exam is a common thing. He is appearing for his 12th standard exams and eyeing a peon’s job. But a strict police officer DSP Dushyant Singh arrives during the exams and stops the cheating process, Manoj is unable to pass the examinations and starts to ride a passenger vehicle with brother Kamlesh. Hey both land in trouble with goons of a politician but Dushyant Singh comes to their aid.
Inspired by his honesty, Manoj starts considering him an idol and wants to become like him. The following year, he clears his 12th standard exams and dreams of becoming a DSP officer but his destiny has different plans which brings Manoj into the world of UPSC, one of the toughest exams in the world.
