Restart from Zero Review: A Guidebook on How to Rescue a Project
Restart from Zero, a documentary based on the making of the 2023 hit, 12th Fail, is in theaters now. Our review said, “The film feels like a love letter from Vidhu Vinod Chopra and his team to the filmmaker himself”.

Release date: December 13, 2024
Struggling with the idea of Varun Dhawan as the lead character of 12th Fail, believing that no one would recognize Vikrant Massey at an outdoor shoot, and accepting that no director wanted to work on the script – these were some of the biggest challenges. There are revelations which have been made by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. His latest film, Restart from Zero.
In simple words it is The movie feels like an extended behind-the-scenes (BTS) vlog The filmmaker’s journey of making one of the most successful films of 2023. It is a collection of various moments from the making of 12th Fail, shot by various team members, and even includes personal clips that the director has shared with his family.
see Zero Se Restart Trailer Here,
As straightforward as this over-an-hour-long film may seem, it begs the question: Why would anyone want to see this in a theater? It might make for a sweet watch on a winter afternoon, but it doesn’t seem like the kind of movie you’d enjoy while eating popcorn. However, it can serve as a valuable guide for film students who want to learn how to save a project when everything is going wrong.
But who are we to predict anything? In this film, Vidhu Vinod Chopra once again shares anecdotes, including his wife’s initial doubts about the choice of lead actor. He also revealed that he expected the film 12th Fail to earn just a few lakhs and run for a few weeks in theatres. The filmmaker discusses how he was suggested to cast Varun Dhawan in the lead role but ultimately decided against it. Why? They wanted someone who would blend in with the crowd. And that’s right – during a school scene, you’ll need more than a few guesses to recognize Vikrant Massey, the ultimate face of mega success.
Restart from Zero also feels like a love letter to the filmmaker from Vidhu Vinod Chopra and his team. It also celebrates his foresight, his unorthodox methods, and even his willingness to go into combat to protect his unit. Chopra’s unwavering belief in the project led her to take on the role of director after being turned down by several directors. He truly exemplifies the adage that even the worst adversity can create opportunities.
While the success of 12th Fail is now clear, a poignant moment in this BTS film shows how everyone underestimated Vikrant Massey’s popularity. While shooting in Mukherjee Nagar – a bustling student hub – Chopra and his team decided not to bring security, believing that no one would recognize Massey. Yet, in the very next scene, we see hundreds of students gathering outside the hotel in hopes of catching a glimpse of the actor. After the film’s massive success, it is unlikely that any filmmaker will make that mistake again.
Overall, if you’re a fan of 12th Fail or just have a passion for the art of filmmaking, you’ll enjoy Restart from Zero.