Varun Dhawan and not Vikrant Massey was first considered for 12th Fail - Here's why Vidhu Vinod Chopra didn't cast him

Zero Se Restart is a behind-the-scenes documentary of the making of 12th Fail, and it reveals how Varun Dhawan was also in the race.

Not Vikrant Massey But Varun Dhawan Was Considered First For 12th Fail

The year 2023 was a remarkable one for Bollywood, showcasing a diverse range of successful films that resonated across genres. Among these was 12th Fail a surprise box-office winner celebrated for its compelling content and stellar performances. Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the film delivered Vikrant Massey’s career-best performance, which continues to receive acclaim. Many fans even believe Massey could win a National Award for his portrayal. However, what if we told you that Vikrant Massey wasn’t the first choice for the role? Initially, the makers considered casting Varun Dhawan.

Why Vidhu Vinod Chopra Did Not Cast Varun Dhawan

In the recently released documentary Zero Se Restart Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Jaskunwar Singh Kohli offer a behind-the-scenes look at the making of 12th Fail. Through vivid storytelling and a mix of anecdotes, the duo reveal the process of crafting the film. The documentary details everything from meticulous research to humorous moments on set, such as VVC sending adorable videos to his family.

One of the intriguing revelations is the casting dilemma. As per Zero Se Restart the team initially considered Varun Dhawan for the role of Manoj. While many on the team supported the idea, Chopra was not convinced. He explained his reservations, stating that while Varun would undoubtedly look striking as a cop in the climactic scenes, he wouldn’t fit the tone of the film's first two acts.

Also Read: 12th Fail OTT release date - When, where to watch Vikrant Massey's moving performance

Chopra felt that Varun would struggle to authentically portray the raw vulnerability required for Manoj’s journey in Chambal and Mukherjee Nagar, where he prepares for the UPSC exam. This concern ultimately led to the team dropping the idea of casting Dhawan and bringing Vikrant Massey on board—a decision that paid off brilliantly.

Zero Se Restart promises to be a treat for cinema lovers, offering unparalleled insights into the making of 12th Fail. The documentary, released in theaters on December 13, 2024, is a must-watch for fans of the film and anyone curious about the art of filmmaking. Stay tuned to OTTplay for more updates from the world of streaming and cinema.

Also Read: Rishab Shetty praises Vikrant Massey's 12th Fail, says film 'holds an important lesson'

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