12th Fail (2023)
DirectorVidhu Vinod Chopra
StarringVikrant Massey, Medha Shankr, Anant Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar
Watch onJioHotstar
Best for: Viewers who appreciate inspirational dramas based on true stories and stories of perseverance.
Where to watch 12th Fail online in India
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JioHotstarAvailability for India, data by JustWatch. Updated 23 October 2026.
12th Fail OTT release date
| Theatrical release (India) | 27 October 2023 |
|---|---|
| OTT / digital release (India) | 29 December 2023 |
| Gap between theatre and OTT | 63 days |
| Streaming now on | JioHotstar |
Release dates for India as listed on TMDB.
12th Fail story (no spoilers)
12th Fail follows Manoj Kumar Sharma, a young man from a modest background who fails his 12th-grade exams. Rather than giving up, he decides to restart his academic journey, aiming for the UPSC exam, one of India's toughest competitive tests. The film, based on a true story, shows his struggles and determination as he navigates setbacks and challenges while pursuing his goal of becoming an IPS officer. Along the way, he meets Shraddha Joshi and forms bonds with friends like Pritam Pandey and Gaurinandan. The drama, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, focuses on resilience and the courage to begin again, with the tagline #RESTART. The tone is inspirational and grounded, highlighting the personal and academic hurdles faced by aspirants.
Should you watch 12th Fail?
Watch it for
- Vikrant Massey leads as Manoj Kumar Sharma, bringing a grounded intensity to the role of a UPSC aspirant.
- Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra crafts a drama rooted in the real-life story of an IPS officer, focusing on the idea of restarting after failure.
- The 146-minute runtime allows for a detailed look at the UPSC preparation journey and the personal relationships that shape Manoj's path.
- The film's tagline #RESTART and its focus on second chances resonate with anyone who has faced academic or personal setbacks.
Skip it if
- If you prefer fast-paced thrillers over a slow-burn drama about exam preparation, this may feel too deliberate.
- The film deals heavily with academic failure and competitive exams, which might not appeal if you're looking for light entertainment.
- With a runtime of 146 minutes, the pacing might feel long if you're not invested in the UPSC journey.
12th Fail cast
Vikrant Masseyas Manoj Kumar Sharma
Medha Shankras Shraddha Joshi
Anant Joshias Pritam Pandey
Anshumaan Pushkaras Gaurinandan
Priyanshu Chatterjeeas Dushyant Singh
Geeta Agrawal Sharmaas Pushpa Sharma
Harish Khannaas Ramveer Sharma
Vikas Divyakirtias Vikas Divyakirti
Sarita Joshias Dadi
Sam Mohanas Deep Mohan
Sonal Jhaas Shraddha's Mother12th Fail movie details
| Director | Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
|---|---|
| Writer | Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Jaskunwar Kohli |
| Music | Shantanu Moitra |
| Cinematography | Rangarajan Rambadran |
| Producer | Vidhu Vinod Chopra |
| Release date | 27 October 2023 |
| Runtime | 2h 26m (146 minutes) |
| Original language | Hindi |
| Country of origin | India |
| Languages spoken in the film | English, Hindi |
| Original title | 12वीं फेल |
| Budget | $2.4 million (approx.) |
| Worldwide box office | $37,231 (approx.) |
Parental guide: is 12th Fail family friendly?
This is a general guide based on the film's drama genre and is not a certification; parental discretion is advised for younger children. This is a general guide based on genre and certification.
12th Fail official trailer
Our verdict
12th Fail is a sincere drama that portrays the grind of UPSC preparation and the emotional toll of failure. Vikrant Massey's performance and Vidhu Vinod Chopra's direction make it a compelling watch for those interested in stories of resilience. It's a grounded, inspiring film that earns its runtime.
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Dil Dhadakne DoFrequently asked questions
Where can I watch 12th Fail online in India?
12th Fail is available for streaming on JioHotstar in India.
When did 12th Fail release in India?
12th Fail had its theatrical release in India on 27 October 2023.
Who is in the cast of 12th Fail?
The cast includes Vikrant Massey as Manoj Kumar Sharma, Medha Shankr as Shraddha Joshi, Anant Joshi as Pritam Pandey, Anshumaan Pushkar as Gaurinandan, Priyanshu Chatterjee as Dushyant Singh, Geeta Agrawal Sharma as Pushpa Sharma, Harish Khanna as Ramveer Sharma, and Vikas Divyakirti as himself.
Who directed 12th Fail?
12th Fail is directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
What is the runtime of 12th Fail?
12th Fail has a runtime of 146 minutes.
Page last updated 23 October 2026. Facts from TMDB; how we write these pages: editorial policy.