Costao is an unflinching portrayal of the life of Costao Fernandes, a courageous and honest customs officer from Goa, set in the 1990s. The film follows his attempt to stop the illegal landing of 1500kg of gold in Goa, which tragically results in the death of Peter D’Mello (played by Hussain Dalal), the smuggler’s brother, during a confrontation. This act of self-defense propels Costao and his family into grave danger, not only from powerful enemies but also in the form of a complex legal battle. Nawazuddin Siddiqui brings this compelling character to life with unmatched depth, as he faces threats to his life while trying to expose the smugglers.
What Works for Costao?
Costao stands out as a sincere attempt to tell the story of an unsung hero. It successfully captures the essence of Costao’s journey without feeling contrived or melodramatic. The heroism at the heart of the story is authentic, making it easy for viewers to connect with the character, even without the usual chest-thumping dialogues found in commercial films. Although a few lines do stand out and highlight Costao’s bravery, the film never loses its natural tone.
The screenplay is another strength, keeping the story engaging without succumbing to the usual tropes of mainstream cinema. The characters are well-written and grounded, which makes them relatable and ensures the viewer remains invested in the narrative. While there are some slower moments in the middle, the film’s brisk 2-hour runtime helps maintain its grip on the audience.
What Could Have Been Better?
While Costao stays true to the authenticity of its story, this choice could alienate those who expect more drama, music, or entertainment from a biographical film. The movie takes risks by focusing on realism and presenting its characters as they are, which may disappoint some viewers who are accustomed to more conventional filmmaking. However, given that the film is not being released in cinemas, any potential loss from not adhering to commercial expectations is likely mitigated.
Performances and Direction
Nawazuddin Siddiqui once again proves why he is one of the most skilled actors in Bollywood. His portrayal of Costao is both powerful and nuanced, demonstrating his wide emotional range. Particularly notable is his performance in scenes that require him to balance both strength and vulnerability. His confrontation with D’Mello is a standout moment, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Gagan Dev Riar delivers an excellent performance as CBI officer Narang, leaving a lasting impression with his nuanced portrayal. Priya Bapat as Maria Fernandes, Hussain Dalal as Peter D’Mello, and Kishore Kumar G as D’Mello all contribute effectively to the film’s strong cast.
Sejal Shah, making his directorial debut after working as a cinematographer on projects like Bodyguard and Kaali Khuhi, impresses with his confident handling of the film. His direction feels seasoned and assured, ensuring that the film never betrays its first-time director status.
Final Verdict
Costao is a rare gem among Hindi OTT releases, offering a refreshing break from the usual, predictable content. If you’ve been feeling disillusioned by the lack of original and compelling films on streaming platforms, Costao is a must-watch. With its gripping narrative, strong performances, and authentic storytelling, it promises to be a memorable experience. The film will begin streaming on Zee5 starting May 1, 2025.
