Hello Readers, this blog post is part of an assignment assigned by Dilip Barad sir from the Department of English, MKBU. In this blogpost, I am sharing my review on the recent released film 12th fail #Restart.
Introduction:
In the sun-baked plains of rural India, whispers of failure cling to the dust like tumbleweeds. Here, a 12th grade exam isn't just a test, it's a barbed wire fence separating possibility from a life preordained by societal expectations. "12th Fail," a film both gritty and heart-wrenching, isn't just the story of one man breaching that fence, it's a symphony of second chances orchestrated in the face of relentless doubt. Based on the real-life odyssey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, this isn't a fairytale of overnight transformations, but a poignant exploration of resilience, self-belief, and the transformative power of education. Prepare to walk dusty roads alongside Manoj, where every stumble is a lesson, every setback a catalyst, and where the echoes of failure pave the path to an extraordinary triumph.
Genre:
Biographical drama
Director:
Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Cast:
Vikrant Massey, Medha Shankar, Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, Priyanshu Chatterjee.
Story:
Inspired by the true story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a young man from Chambal, India, who failed his 12th grade exams but didn't let that define him. The film follows his journey as he overcomes societal pressures, financial hardships, and personal doubts to achieve his dream of becoming an Indian Police Service officer.
Themes:
Education, social inequality, perseverance, second chances
Reception:
"12th Fail" was critically acclaimed for its inspiring story, convincing performances, and realistic portrayal of rural life in India. It was a box office success as well, generating positive reviews and resonating with audiences.
The film is based on the 2019 non-fiction book of the same name by Anurag Pathak.
It was dubbed and released in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada languages after its Hindi success.
Theoretical Framework:
Bildungsroman:
This literary theory focuses on the development and maturation of a young protagonist as they navigate challenges and forge their identity. We can apply this to Manoj's journey, analyzing how his failures propel him to self-discovery and redefine his success beyond academic achievement. The film aligns with the classic Bildungsroman structure by presenting obstacles like societal pressures, financial hardship, and internal doubts as catalysts for his growth. However, it also challenges the traditional trope of linear progress by showcasing setbacks as integral to his eventual triumph.
Social Realism:
This film theory emphasizes the portrayal of real-life social and economic conditions and their impact on individual lives. We can view "12th Fail" through this lens by examining how it depicts the harsh realities of rural India, from the pressure to conform to educational expectations to the struggle for economic mobility. The film aligns with Social Realism by presenting an unflinching portrait of inequality and its impact on Manoj's aspirations. However, it also transcends mere critique by offering a glimmer of hope through Manoj's determination and the transformative power of education as a tool for social change.
By using these frameworks, we can analyze specific cinematic elements, such as:
Mise-en-scène:
How the film's setting, costumes, and props visually represent the protagonist's circumstances and societal pressures.
Music and Sound Design:
How the soundtrack underscores the film's themes of struggle, hope, and perseverance.
Montage:
Training montage:
Fast-paced sequences showcasing Manoj's relentless efforts in preparing for his police entrance exams, amplifying the intensity of his determination and the arduous journey he undertakes.
Flashback montage:
Brief snippets of his childhood experiences with education and societal pressures provide context for his struggles, evoking empathy and understanding for his past challenges.
Contextualization:
Education System:
The film throws a critical light on the Indian education system's obsession with standardized tests as the sole gateway to success. Manoj's failure in the 12th grade exams became a social stigma, highlighting the pressure on young minds and the need for a more holistic approach to education.
Government Jobs:
Manoj's pursuit of an IPS career reflects the societal fascination with government jobs as markers of stability and prestige. The film explores the intense competition and systemic inequalities within these systems, questioning the accessibility of such aspirations for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Cultural Context:
Set in rural India, the film grapples with deeply ingrained societal expectations and prejudices. Manoj's journey challenges the notions of caste, class, and predetermined life paths, showcasing the struggle for upward mobility and the impact of societal constructs on individual dreams.
Youth Aspirations:
"12th Fail" speaks to the aspirations of countless Indian youth yearning to break free from limitations and define success on their own terms. Manoj's story resonates with their desire for self-determination, regardless of academic failures or societal pressures.
Socio-cultural Relevance:
It challenges the societal perception of academic achievement as the sole measure of worth, advocating for alternative paths and celebrating individual potential.
Manoj's journey embodies the struggles of marginalized communities in navigating systemic inequalities and defying preordained destinies. His success becomes a beacon of hope, inspiring others to fight for their dreams.
The film underscores the power of perseverance and unwavering self-belief, offering a relatable narrative of overcoming setbacks and finding strength in personal ambition.
Manoj's story challenges the stigma associated with failure, advocating for opportunities for self-redemption and personal growth beyond standardized labels.
"12th Fail" goes beyond entertainment to spark crucial conversations about educational reform, social mobility, and the pursuit of individual dreams.
Thematic Study:
Defying Societal Expectations:
Manoj's journey is a poignant rebellion against the rigid societal definitions of success. His failure in the 12th grade exams acts as a catalyst for him to break free from the preordained path of academic achievement and pursue his own aspirations. This theme challenges viewers to re-evaluate the narrow parameters of societal success and celebrate individual potential beyond standardized labels.
Second Chances and Redemption:
The film champions the notion of second chances and personal redemption. Manoj's failures are not portrayed as definitive, but rather as stepping stones on his road to self-discovery. His pursuit of the IPS, despite societal ridicule, underlines the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the opportunity to rewrite one's narrative.
Education and Social Mobility:
"12th Fail" critiques the flaws of the Indian education system, highlighting its tendency to perpetuate social inequalities and limit opportunities for underprivileged communities. Manoj's struggles to navigate alternative paths outside the academic mainstream expose the systemic biases and the urgent need for a more holistic approach to education.
Family and Support Systems:
The unwavering support of Manoj's family serves as a vital counterpoint to societal pressures. Their faith in him and their willingness to challenge traditional norms become instrumental in his pursuit of his dreams. This theme emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and community support in fostering resilience and defying societal expectations.
Perseverance and Determination:
Manoj's relentless pursuit of his IPS dream epitomizes the power of perseverance and determination. The film's portrayal of his arduous training and unwavering focus inspires viewers to overcome personal challenges and chase their aspirations with unwavering spirit.
Societal Commentary:
The film criticizes the focus on standardized tests and advocates for a more holistic approach that recognizes diverse talents and aptitudes.
Manoj's journey embodies the struggles of marginalized communities to break free from the shackles of caste, class, and socio-economic limitations.
The film encourages viewers to challenge societal pressures and believe in their own potential, regardless of their academic background or perceived failures.
"12th Fail" offers an alternative narrative of success, one that prioritizes personal fulfillment, resilience, and defying societal expectations.
Comparative analysis (12th Fail and Chak De! India):
Both "12th Fail" and "Chak De! India" resonate with audiences through their powerful portrayals of individuals defying societal expectations and achieving success against overwhelming odds. However, despite thematic similarities, their narratives and cinematic approaches offer fascinating points of comparison:
Similarities:
Both films tackle significant social issues rooted in Indian society. "12th Fail" critiques the obsession with standardized tests and caste-based hierarchies, while "Chak De! India" confronts gender prejudice and the marginalization of women in sports.
Both protagonists, Manoj in "12th Fail" and Kabir Khan in "Chak De! India," face immense pressure and skepticism from the community. They overcome personal failures, external doubt, and systemic inequalities to achieve their goals.
Both narratives challenge conventional definitions of success, emphasizing personal fulfillment, resilience, and defying societal norms. Manoj's success extends beyond academic achievements, while Kabir Khan finds vindication in leading the underdog Indian women's hockey team to victory.
Differences:
"12th Fail" is a personal journey of self-discovery and social commentary, emphasizing Manoj's individual struggle. "Chak De! India" adopts a broader scope, exploring themes of teamwork, national pride, and societal transformation through the prism of the women's hockey team.
"12th Fail" employs a gritty realism, portraying the harsh realities of rural India and Manoj's emotional struggles. "Chak De! India" uses a more uplifting and cinematic style, interspersed with moments of humor and celebration to balance the challenges faced by the team.
Both films utilize potent symbols to reflect their themes. "12th Fail" uses the failed 12th grade exam as a symbol of societal pressure and the need for educational reform. "Chak De! India" employs the hockey stick and the team's journey as metaphors for overcoming gender bias and achieving national glory.
Cultural Significance:
"12th Fail" resonates with contemporary Indian audiences by offering a relatable portrayal of the education system's flaws and the struggles faced by individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. It sparks crucial conversations about educational reform and the importance of self-belief beyond academic scores.
"Chak De! India" celebrates the underdog spirit and the power of teamwork in overcoming societal prejudice. It has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring young women to pursue sports and challenging discriminatory perceptions of their athletic capabilities.
By comparing these two films, we gain a deeper understanding of how similar themes of defying societal expectations can be explored through diverse narratives and cinematic approaches. Both films, though distinct in their focus and style, celebrate the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and inspire audiences to challenge the limitations imposed by society.
Conclusion:
"12th Fail," this movie is about winning against the odds! Imagine a guy named Manoj, stuck in a system that judges him only by one test. He fails, feels lost, but doesn't give up. He chases his dream, not some boring desk job, but a tough officer's career. Family cheers him on, society mocks him, but Manoj keeps going. He pushes through, like a champ, proving that success isn't just about grades, it's about believing in yourself, beating expectations, and carving your own path. This movie makes you think, makes you root for Manoj, and reminds you: never let anyone tell you what you can or can't do! it's more than just a film, it's a story about defying limits and winning big!
References:
Chakraborty , M. N. Nationalist Transactions: Chak De! India and the down-and-out Sports ..., www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10304312.2012.731259. Accessed 17 Jan. 2024.
Graham, Sarah. A History of the Bildungsroman. Cambridge University Press, 2019.
Kumar, Anuj. “‘12th Fail’ Movie Review: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Delivers yet Another Hug of Hope That Is More Earnest than Magical.” The Hindu, 26 Oct. 2023, www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/12th-fail-movie-review-vidhu-vinod-chopra-delivers-yet-another-hug-of-hope-that-is-more-earnest-than-magical/article67460764.ece.
Pathaka, Anuraga, et al. Twelfth Fail: Hara Vahi Jo Lada Nahi. Harpercollins India, 2021.
Word Count: 1764
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