In a significant move that underscores the power of cinema in impacting society, the Supreme Court of India recently hosted a special screening of Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s highly acclaimed film ’12th Fail’. The event showcased the story of perseverance and resilience, with a turnout that included some of the nation’s top judicial minds.
Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, accompanied by the film’s lead actors Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar, were present at the screening. Also in attendance were IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and IRS officer Shraddha, the real-life inspirations behind the film. This remarkable gathering followed Kiran Rao’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ screening held only a few weeks prior at the same esteemed venue.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, judges, over 600 officials of the Supreme Court, and their families filled the auditorium, eager to partake in the cinematic experience. Following the viewing, an interactive session was conducted where the audience engaged with the film’s team, delving into the deeper narratives and meanings embedded in the story.
‘12th Fail’ directed, produced, and penned by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is an adaptation of Anurag Pathak’s 2019 non-fiction book, chronicling Manoj Kumar Sharma’s journey from abject poverty to becoming an Indian Police Service officer. The narrative serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of education and determination.
Reflecting on the screening, CJI Chandrachud expressed profound admiration for the film. He remarked, “In times where inspiration is paramount, our society thrives on hope, and all of you have delivered this hope—not just for tonight but for the entire nation. We need more stories like these that spotlight real individuals rising above their adversities, inspiring society to believe in their own potential. I am confident that everyone present, especially the families of our staff, will internalize this message and pass it on to encourage future generations to contribute positively to the nation.”
Justice Chandrachud continued by commending the film’s cast and crew, “Films like ’12th Fail’ push us to strive for excellence daily. Vidhu Vinod Chopra has masterfully translated a real-life story onto the screen. Vikrant and Medha have seamlessly embodied their characters, making their portrayal deeply authentic and moving.
. Their commitment to the roles is palpable throughout the film.”
He added, “There were moments during the movie where I found myself emotional. The film powerfully delivers a message of hope. On behalf of the entire workforce and my colleagues at the Supreme Court, I extend heartfelt thanks to the ’12th Fail’ team for sharing this inspirational evening with us.”
Vidhu Vinod Chopra reciprocated the compliments by sharing his feelings about the evening. He stated, “This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Sitting next to Dr. Chandrachud, who comprehensively grasped every nuance and message in the film, validated the five years I invested in making it. I am deeply thankful to all the revered judges and members of the Supreme Court for their presence. It was truly a magical evening.”
The film also features performances by Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Priyanshu Chatterjee in significant roles, further enriching its narrative depth. ’12th Fail’ hit theatres on October 27, 2023, and has since garnered widespread critical acclaim and audience appreciation.
The unprecedented screening at the Supreme Court highlights the evolving relationship between the judiciary and cultural mediums like cinema, underscoring the role of films in fostering societal reflection and growth. By bringing such powerful real-life stories to the forefront, filmmakers like Vidhu Vinod Chopra are not only entertaining but also educating and inspiring mass audiences, including those at the highest echelons of the nation’s judicial system.
As the evening drew to a close, the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose between the film creators and the judiciary was unmistakable. The successful screening and the ensuing dialogue are a testament to the universal appeal of stories of human triumph, reinforcing the idea that cinema is a pivotal force for societal change.
