12th Fail: Within 3 days of OTT release, Manoj Kumar Sharma's biopic becomes Disney+ Hotstar’s most watched film of 2023

Acclaimed director Vidhu Vinod Chopra's movie, available on Disney + Hotstar since December 29, has garnered significant attention since its OTT release. Produced with a budget of around 20 crores, the film grossed 66.5 crores worldwide during its 52-day theatrical release, according to Sacnilk. In the film, Vikrant Massey stars as the main character, Manoj Kumar Sharma. The narrative follows Sharma's journey from a high school dropout to an IPS officer. Despite limited promotion during its theatrical release, the film achieved box office success, largely due to positive word-of-mouth reviews. However, its release was limited to around 600 theaters, restricting its audience. Its availability on Disney+ Hotstar has made it accessible to millions of eager viewers. Remarkably, it became the most watched film of 2023 on Disney+ Hotstar within just three days of its platform release.

According to Gaurav Banerjee, Head of Content, Disney+ Hotstar & HSM Entertainment Network, Disney Star, the film is doing "phenomenally well" on the OTT platform. He stated during an exclusive interaction with LiveMint, "within three days of its launch on the platform, it has emerged as the most watched film of 2023. Our audience has incredibly embraced legendary Indian filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra's vision. His sincerity and fearlessness are reflected in the film, and we are thrilled with our fans' enthusiasm for this heartfelt story from rural India."

Banerjee further added that the film "presents a powerful narrative of an individual's struggles and victories, revealing an inspirational true story."

Other Hindi films that have gained popularity on Disney+ Hotstar this year include Gaslight, Gulmohar, Apurva, IB71, and The Vaccine War. Livemint continues to be the fastest growing news website globally. Explore several benefits like insightful newsletters, real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed.