Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra has unveiled the behind-the-scenes story of his latest venture, “12th Fail,” revealing that it was director Rajkumar Hirani who inspired the film’s inception and suggested actor Vikrant Massey for the lead role.
“12th Fail” narrates the extraordinary life of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who triumphed over severe poverty to achieve the rank of an IPS officer. Vidhu Vinod Chopra shared insights into the film’s creation, expressing how Rajkumar Hirani played a pivotal role in the project.
Speaking to Times of India, Vidhu Vinod Chopra disclosed, “Manoj Sharma came to me with the book (‘Twelfth Fail’) and requested me for a blurb in the book. I saw that behind the book, Raju Hirani and Sachin Tendulkar praised it. I called Raju, and he suggested that this book could be made into a film. I asked if he would direct it, but he was occupied with something else. Then, I started writing and fell in love with the script. It was Raju who suggested Vikrant’s name. I had seen his film ‘A Death in the Gunj,’ and I had liked him. Vikrant inspired me to direct this film.”
Recently celebrating 100 days in cinemas with Vikrant Massey and co-actor Medha Shankar, Vidhu Vinod Chopra reflected on the journey that brought “12th Fail” to the silver screen. The film was released on October 27, 2023, receiving accolades from various celebrities, including Kareena Kapoor, Kamal Haasan, Alia Bhatt, and more. “12th Fail” was honored with the Best Film award at the 69th Filmfare Awards.
Based on Anurag Pathak’s book, the movie sheds light on the life of Manoj Kumar Sharma and his remarkable journey from poverty to becoming an IPS officer. Vikrant Massey portrays the lead role of Manoj, while Medha Shankar brings to life the character of his wife, IRS officer Shraddha Joshi.
Reflecting on his role, Vikrant Massey told ANI, “The movie is a very typical Vidhu Vinod Chopra movie, based on hard reality and is a very hard-hitting film. The role was very challenging. I had to lose weight and darken my skin.”
“12th Fail” continues to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and stellar performances, marking another success in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s illustrious filmmaking career.
Sources By Agencies
