Vikrant Massey's 12th Fail Wins Best Film At National Film Awards: Where To Watch
The 71st National Film Awards were announced with 12th Fail winning Best Feature Film and Vikrant Massey receiving Best Actor.
The winners of the 71st National Film Awards for the year 2023 were officially announced on August 1. Among the most celebrated films was 12th Fail, which received the prestigious Best Feature Film award. The movie also earned Vikrant Massey the Best Actor award, which he shared with Shah Rukh Khan, who was honoured for his performance in Jawan. This marks a significant milestone for Khan, as it is his first National Award in a career spanning over three decades.
12th Fail is a Hindi-language biographical drama inspired by the real-life journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who rose from poverty to become an officer in the Indian Police Service (IPS). The film has been written, directed and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and it captures the struggles and determination of a young man facing societal and financial hurdles to pursue his dream of serving the nation. The film stars Vikrant Massey as Manoj Kumar Sharma, while Medha Shankr plays the role of his wife, Shraddha Joshi Sharma. Other key performances include Anant Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar and Priyanshu Chatterjee, who bring depth to the story with their strong supporting roles.
Where to watch 12th Fail
For those who haven't yet experienced the powerful journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, 12th Fail is now available for streaming on Hotstar. The film has resonated deeply with audiences for its inspiring message and relatable portrayal of hardship, making it one of the most talked-about films of the year.
Plot Summary of 12th Fail
Set in a small village in the Chambal region, the story revolves around Manoj Kumar Sharma, a teenager preparing for his 12th-grade exams with the hope of landing a peon's job. In his village, cheating during exams is a widespread practice. However, when a principled police officer, DSP Dushyant Singh, cracks down on cheating, Manoj fails to clear the exams.
Following his failure, Manoj joins his brother Kamlesh in driving a passenger vehicle to earn a living. During their journey, the brothers come into conflict with goons linked to a local politician. They are saved once again by DSP Dushyant Singh, whose honesty and courage deeply influence Manoj. Inspired by Singh, Manoj dreams of becoming a police officer like him.
He manages to clear his exams the following year and initially aspires to become a DSP. His ambition grows as he sets his sights on the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest competitive exams in the country. The film captures his relentless pursuit, academic struggles, and emotional battles, painting a realistic picture of what it takes to rise from nothing and make it big.
The musical composition for the 12th Fail adds a rich emotional layer to the storytelling. Shantanu Moitra composed the film's music, while lyrics were penned by Swanand Kirkire and Raftaar.
Other Major Winners at the National Awards
Alongside 12th Fail, several other films and artists were honoured at the 71st National Film Awards. Rani Mukerji was recognised as Best Actress for her outstanding performance in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, a film that portrays a mother's legal battle against a foreign government to reclaim her children.
Vicky Kaushal's Sam Bahadur won in multiple categories, including Best Makeup, Best Costume Design and Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values.
In the field of choreography, Vaibhavi Merchant took home the Best Choreography award for her work in Karan Johar's vibrant family drama Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.
Other notable mentions include Adah Sharma's The Kerala Story, Sanya Malhotra's Kathal, Teja Sajja's Hanu-Man, and Ranbir Kapoor's Animal, all of which received acclaim in various categories.
First Published:
August 02, 2025, 10:32 IST
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
37 minutes ago
- Time of India
'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' box office collections day 9: Pedro Pascal's superhero flick sees fresh momentum; Global collection crosses Rs 2252 crore mark
After a lukewarm run during its initial week, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' appears to be getting a second wind. The film, headlined by Pedro Pascal , has seen a significant boost in collections on its ninth day. The global earnings soared to an impressive Rs 2252.45 crore, according to data from Sacnilk website. The early days showed signs of decline. Post-Day 5, the Day 9 numbers suggest growing interest, possibly due to strong IMAX 3D appeal and word-of-mouth buzz finally catching on. India Contribution Modest But Steady; English Version Leads the Pack In India, the film has earned Rs 30.09 crore net, with Rs 22.06 crore coming from the English version alone. The Hindi version has brought in Rs 6.59 crore, followed by Tamil at Rs 86 lakhs and Telugu at Rs 58 lakhs. Interestingly, the English version has maintained the highest day-to-day consistency. Day 9 alone added Rs 1.91 crore to the English total, showing a slight rebound from the mid-week dip. In contrast, the Hindi version saw a smaller Rs 19 lakhs on Day 9, while Tamil and Telugu made marginal additions of Rs 6 lakhs and Rs 2 lakhs, respectively. No Final Verdict Yet; But Revival Sparks Hope for Extended Run Despite its box office turnaround, 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' is yet to receive an official verdict in any language. The numbers are promising, but the lack of a declared hit or average status leaves room for cautious optimism. Still, fans and analysts alike are hopeful. Pedro Pascal's presence and the film's high-concept visual storytelling seem to be finding traction with a wider audience, especially those seeking immersive big-screen experiences. ETimes review for the film reads, "Pedro Pascal stands out as Reed Richards, portraying the duality of a brilliant scientific mind who views everything through a pragmatic lens. His internal conflict over his unborn child's normalcy—constantly running scans and tests—is handled with finesse. Vanessa Kirby impresses as Sue Storm, balancing her duty as a superhero with that of a mother who refuses to sacrifice one for the other." Vanessa Kirby & Pedro Pascal Lead Marvel's First Family; Fantastic Four Teaser Ignites Fan Hype
India.com
39 minutes ago
- India.com
This 2-hour 20-minute gripping drama-thriller, with an IMDb rating of 7.2, blends astrology, science, and a jaw-dropping climax, movie name is...
Directed by Nelson Venkatesan, the film stars Atharvaa Murali and Nimisha Sajayan in a gripping tale that explores the intersection of astrology and science. It follows two souls battling life in different ways — Anand, still reeling from the loss of his first love and fresh out of rehab, and Divya, who suffers from a mental health condition. Their arranged marriage happens against some opposition, but Anand chooses to stand by Divya despite learning about her struggles. The twist that changes everything Soon after their wedding, happiness fills their home with the birth of their child. But on the very same day, everything changes. Divya claims her newborn has been swapped. Initially dismissing it as paranoia, Anand begins to uncover disturbing truths that shake him to his core. The investigation takes them deep into a dark web of astrology-linked superstitions, psychological battles, and a chilling international child trafficking ring. More than just a thriller DNA doesn't just aim to scare — it holds a mirror to society, questioning deep-seated prejudices and the unjust burden placed on mothers to 'prove' their love and sanity. Its layered writing keeps the mystery tight until the last frame, where the climax lands like a jolt. The background score doubles the suspense, while the cinematography adds to the unease — from hospital corridors to dimly lit investigative sequences. Both visually and emotionally, it grips till the end. Where to watch DNA With an IMDb rating of 7.2 and a BookMyShow score of 8.9, DNA is now streaming on JioHotstar in Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, and Malayalam. If you missed it in theatres, now's your chance — grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and let the mystery unfold.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
VALIDATION, PRIDE, GRATITUDE: 12TH Fail, Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway, Kathal among winners at the 71st National Film Awards
12th Fail Best Feature Film Best Actor: Vikrant Massey This year, Hindi cinema seems to be the star at the National Film Awards. Responding to a query on whether Bengali cinema doesn't have that impact anymore, Ashutosh added, 'Every regional cinema has its high time and low time. You suddenly see a wave of great cinema from Bengal, or from Marathi, Tamil, Malayalam — and then there are other times when you don't. It's constantly in flux. Why this wave happens, nobody can answer. This year, we've seen equally important films from every region.' A noticeable trend this year was the rise of debut directors. 'There were a large number of debut directors this year, which is a great thing,' Gowariker said, adding, 'There are so many more filmmakers coming in and creating their own voices to tell the stories they want to tell.' 'A happy man today, forever grateful' Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani has won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment – a moment of pride for the filmmaker and the team. Reacting to the honour, Johar shared, 'It feels surreal, two years on... to receive so much love for a film that we put so much love in. I'm a happy man today, and I will remain forever grateful for this.' Ranveer Singh, who played Rocky Randhawa in the film, said the real success lies in how the film has emotionally connected with audiences, 'The real win for RRKPK is how it has grown to become people's go-to comfort film. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Is Why Smart People Put Baking Soda in Their Shampoo Read More Undo They rewatch it again and again, as a form of emotional regulation.' The film also won Best Choreography for Dhindhora Baje Re , choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant. Alia Bhatt marked the occasion by sharing behind-the-scenes moments from the shoot. 'A 20-year-old boy's dream has come true' 12th Fail , directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and starring Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankr, has won the National Award for Best Feature Film. Vikrant also bagged the Best Actor honour for his powerful performance in the film. He expressed gratitude to the jury and the makers of 12th Fail . 'A 20-year-old boy's dream has come true,' said Vikrant, dedicating the honour to the marginalised. 'This award is for everyone fighting the socio-economic paradigm of our country. ' Director Vidhu, called the recognition 'a moment of immense pride.' He added, 'It's a story that has struck a chord with audiences across boundaries. My aim was to inspire people to face their hardest battles with honesty, no matter where they are in life. This film has charted a remarkable journey of its own.' Mrs. Chatterjee V/s Norway Rani Mukerji: Best Actress in a Leading Role First win for Rani: 'I dedicate it to all the incredible mothers of the world' Rani Mukerji has won her first-ever National Award for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway , a milestone moment in her 30-year career. Overwhelmed by the honour, the actor called the recognition 'a validation of my 30-year body of work, my dedication to the craft, and my spiritual connection with cinema.' Mukerji credited the team behind the emotional drama, including producers Nikkhil Advani, Monisha Advani, Madhu Bhojwani, and director Ashima Chibber. 'This film celebrated the resilience of motherhood,' she said, adding, 'There is nothing like a mother's love and her ferocity to protect her own. I dedicate this National Award to all the incredible mothers of the world.' Reflecting on the real-life story of an Indian immigrant mother at the film's heart, Mukerji said it 'shook me deeply.' Becoming a mother herself made the role even more personal. She also thanked her fans, saying, 'Your love and support is everything I've ever needed to stay motivated. You've embraced every role I've brought to life. Without you, I'd be a nobody today.' Her cousin and actress Kajol also shared her pride, writing, 'Your performance was pure fire and heart. Congratulations on the win.' 'An unforgettable moment for all of us' Sam Bahadur, Meghna Gulzar's biopic on India's first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, bagged three honours at the 71st National Film Awards –Best Feature Film on National, Social and Environmental Values, Best Make-up, and Best Costume Design. Director Meghna Gulzar called the film 'a salute to the courage, wit, and unmatched legacy of Sam Manekshaw.' She added, 'It was a story we were privileged to bring to life. Winning a National Film Award is an unforgettable moment for all of us. ' Vicky Kaushal, who played the lead, shared his pride on Instagram, 'So proud!!! Congratulations team.' Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Best Hindi Film 'This win is for every storyteller' Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery , a sharp satire rooted in rural India, has bagged the National Award for Best Hindi Feature Film. Directed by debutant Yashowardhan Mishra, the film stars Sanya Malhotra in a standout role as a small-town cop chasing a curious case of missing jackfruits. Calling the honour 'incredibly reaffirming,' Mishra thanked the jury and collaborators, saying, ' 'I'm thankful to the jury for this great honour. It is incredibly reaffirming to be recognised for the work we do and the stories we choose to tell. I am grateful to have found collaborators in Guneet Monga Kapoor , Achin Jain, Balaji, Ekta Kapoor, and Netflix. I share this award with my wonderful cast and crew who shaped the film in myriad ways.' Producers Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain celebrated the win as 'a victory for every voice that deserves to be heard.' Guneet said, 'Every time a story from the heart of India is honoured, it's a win for every voice that deserves to be heard. This win is for every storyteller who dares to look closer and tell stories that matters. ' Sam Bahadur Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social, and Environmental Values Best Make-up Best Costume Designer; Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai Best Screenplay 'This is 12 years of hard work' Deepak Kingrani, who won Best Dialogue for Manoj Bajpayeeled Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, called the honour a reward for over a decade of dedication. 'A lot of good films were in competition, but only one can win. Ye 10-12 saal ki mehnat hai ,' he said. Reflecting on the film's much-discussed climactic monologue, he added, 'It's inspired by a dialogue between Shivji and Parvati… If someone trusts you and you deceive them, that's the worst betrayal. ' Kingrani said the monologue perfectly echoed the film's message. Kerala Story wins big ...but Kerala CM isn't happy Sudipto Sen's The Kerala Story took home top honours at the National Film Awards, winning in the Best Director and Best Cinematography categories. Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah welcomed the recognition. 'It's been a very, very tough film to make, and to get this kind of recognition at the national level with two very prestigious awards is supremely exciting and satisfying,' he said. Director Sudipto told ANI , 'The journey of making The Kerala Story was a team effort and it is the team's victory. It was not made in Mumbai but we went to small villages and cities in Kerala and collected facts for the story. It is a different kind of feeling.' However, the decision to recognise the film has drawn criticism from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He expressed his disappointment, stating that the film promotes an ideology that, in his view, distorts facts and spreads communal discord. 'By honouring a film that spreads blatant misinformation with the clear intent of tarnishing Kerala's image and sowing seeds of communal hatred, the jury of the National Film Awards has lent legitimacy to a narrative rooted in the divisive ideology of the Sangh Parivar,' he wrote on X.
