- By Tapapriya Dutta
- Sat, 02 Aug 2025 12:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Vikrant Massey is one of the talented actors in the film industry, who has shown his versatility wth various roles. But his role as Manoj Kumar Sharma (an UPSC aspirant) in 12th Fail has given him due credit. The film not only gained appreciation but also recognised the talents of lead actors Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankr. The movie won various accolades, including winning Filmfare Awards in 2024 for various categories like Best Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor (Critics) and Best Editing. In the same year, the movie also won the International Indian Film Academy Awards for two categories, including Best Story, Best Screenplay. Now, finally, 12th Fail has received Best Feature Film and Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 71st National Film Awards. As the movie received such a prestigious award, here is why it deserved to win the National Film Awards.
Why 12th Fail Deserved To Win Best Feature Film In 71st National Film Awards?
Engaging Storyline
The story focuses on the failures and the struggles of UPSC aspirants, who give their everything to fulfil the dream of becoming an IAS. It also shows how every aspirant struggles to survive in the world of competitive exams out of millions of contenders, especially without having a strong financial background.
A moment of pride and gratitude 🤍#12thFail wins Best Feature Film, and Best Actor in a leading role - @VikrantMassey at the 71st National Film Awards for the Year 2023. pic.twitter.com/E2RVWa2Gzf
— Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films (@VVCFilms) August 1, 2025
Stellar Performances
Vikrant Massey’s performance has touched the chord of the audience’s hearts on an emotional level. His depth of acting in the movie made him a star in the film industry. With this film, Medha Shankr’s talent was also identified and gained fame. It also gave recognition to actors Anant V Joshi and Anshumaan Pushkar for their powerful performances.
Relatable Theme
The movie was shown from the perspective of an ordinary village boy, who failed in 12th at his first attempt. But his dream to achieve great things in life never let him take a back step. It shows that even without having financial support or great resources, a man can achieve anything he wants if determined to do so.
Direction And Production
Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who is known for bringing exceptional concepts to the big screen. This time, he again proved his vision to think differently with his 12th Fail movie.
Relationship Dynamics
The film also touched on several aspects during the journey of an UPSC aspirant, such as friendships, hard work, love and parents’ aspirations for their children. It shows how each one of them either balances the relationships with their friends, partner and family with their career or gets detached slowly while following their dreams.