The film “Costao”, released on ZEE5, is a biographical film set in the backdrop of Goa in the 1990s. This is the story of Costao Fernandes (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), an honest customs officer, who one day gets information about gold smuggling while performing his duty. During the investigation of this case, an accidental murder takes place, which complicates both his life and family.
The film shows how an honest government officer is caught between a corrupt system and court trials. Along with this, family emotions, moral conflicts and courage to confront the system are also seen in the story.
Performance & Characters:
- The film’s biggest strength is the sincerity and seriousness with which Nawazuddin Siddiqui portrays Costao Fernandes. In some scenes, his style even feels like Ganesh Gaitonde from Sacred Games – depth, weight and those special Nawaz-style one-liners.
- Priya Bapat plays Costao’s wife “Maria” and handles the emotional aspect of the family very well.
- Co-stars like Kishore Kumar, Hussain Dalal and Mahika Sharma have also given good performances in their respective roles, although the focus remains completely on Nawazuddin.
Direction & Screenplay:
Sezal Shah’s direction and writing are straightforward. There is no overdrama or masala in the film, and that is its strength – but this simplicity may feel incomplete to some viewers.
- The story has thrills, courtroom drama and emotional layers, but everything is presented in a very simple treatment.
- According to many critics, the film could have been more impactful if the story had more depth or cinematic flair.
- The location of Goa has been used, but its liveliness is not fully felt in the film.
Presentation and Cinematic Elements:
- The background music and camera work are simple, but effective.
- The pace of the film can feel slow in parts, especially after the mid section.
- The narration is done from the perspective of Costao’s daughter, which gives the story an emotional and personal touch.
Positive aspects:
- Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s powerful performance
- Story based on a true incident
- A film that can be watched with family without any abuses or vulgarity
- Theme of honesty, courage and struggle against the system
Negative aspects:
- Lack of cinematic impact in direction
- Court trials and legal aspects could have been shown in more detail
- Goa setting could have been shown more lively
- Lack of thrills and turning points
Ratings and conclusions:
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
“Costao” is a simple but true story, which Nawazuddin Siddiqui brings to life with his acting. This film can be seen less as a thriller, but more as an inspirational biopic depicting the honesty and struggle of a man.
If you are looking for high-octane thrills or courtroom drama, then you may find this film to be ordinary. But if you appreciate true stories and honest performances, then “Costao” is definitely worth watching – especially on ZEE5, sitting at home, with the family.