The creators have released an intense trailer for “Costao,” featuring Nawazuddin Siddiqui in a striking new role. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1990s in Goa, the trailer presents Siddiqui as Costao Fernandes, a courageous customs officer who stands up against a formidable smuggling operation entrenched in corruption and fear. In a world rife with deep-seated corruption and rampant crime, “Costao” portrays the journey of a man who dares to challenge the status quo. The trailer highlights Nawazuddin as Costao, a tenacious customs officer whose bold strategies and steadfast determination pose a significant threat to the powerful criminal syndicate that rules Goa.
The narrative takes a gripping turn when Costao’s encounter with the sibling of a notorious smuggler ignites a perilous manhunt. Betrayed, isolated, and hunted from all directions, Costao finds himself in an unyielding struggle for survival. His fight transcends the pursuit of justice; it is also a battle for his family, his honor, and his redemption.
In discussing the film, Siddiqui remarked, “Costao is more than just a tale of a customs officer battling a merciless smuggling empire—it encapsulates the price of opposing a system entrenched in corruption and treachery. There is a line in the film where a character states, ‘In our society, everyone wants the officer to be honest and brave… but not at home’; this resonates deeply. Costao’s bravery in the face of insurmountable challenges embodies this sentiment. His struggle is not only against criminals but also against a system that seeks to undermine him at every opportunity. I eagerly anticipate viewers experiencing the explosive twists, raw emotions, and relentless intensity that ‘Costao’ offers. It’s a narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat, prompting reflections on morality and the sacrifices one man is willing to make for justice.”
Debut director Sejal Shah remarked, “Costao tells the story of an officer who put his life on the line to uphold his principles and faced the consequences. It is a raw and intense narrative filled with moments that challenge the limits of duty. Bringing this story to life has been both a challenge and an honor, and I could not have wished for a more fitting actor than Nawazuddin Siddiqui to portray Costao. He infuses the character with unparalleled authenticity and depth. ZEE5 has consistently supported bold and impactful storytelling, and I am thrilled to partner with them.
I eagerly anticipate audiences experiencing Costao—a narrative that truly deserves to be shared.” The film, directed by the newcomer Sejal Shah, also features Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal. It is produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Bhavesh Mandalia, Sejal Shah, Shyam Sunder, and Faizuddin Siddiqui, with the screenplay crafted by Bhavesh Mandalia and Meghna Srivastava. “Costao” is set to premiere on May 1 on ZEE5.
