Key Points

Nawazuddin Siddiqui immersed himself in the real Costao Fernandes' personality to bring authenticity to his role. The film follows a fearless customs officer battling corruption in 90s Goa. Producer Vinod Bhanushali trusted Nawazuddin and the script despite the risks of a biopic. Directed by Sejal Shah, the film has garnered praise since its ZEE5 release.

Key Points: Nawazuddin Siddiqui Reveals How Real Costao Fernandes Shaped His Role

  • Nawaz studied Costao's emotions and gestures rather than copying him
  • The film portrays a 90s Goa customs officer fighting smuggling
  • Producer Vinod Bhanushali backed the biographical crime drama
  • Directed by debutant Sejal Shah with a strong supporting cast
2 min read

Nawazuddin Siddiqui explains how meeting real-life Costao Fernandes helped his role in crime drama

Nawazuddin Siddiqui explains how meeting the real Costao Fernandes helped him craft his fearless customs officer role in the ZEE5 crime drama.

"I focused more on his thoughts—what made him angry, what made him smile. - Nawazuddin Siddiqui"

Mumbai, May 3

The biographical crime drama Costao, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, was released on May 1 on ZEE5 and has received positive reviews from viewers.

Set in Goa during the 1990s, the film revolves around the story of a bold customs officer who stands up against a powerful smuggling network, fighting crime and corruption while dealing with pressure from both the underworld and his own department.

Nawazuddin plays Costao Fernandes, a sharp and fearless officer who doesn't follow rules but always seeks justice.

While speaking to ANI, Nawazuddin spoke about preparing for the role and shared how meeting the real Costao Fernandes made a big difference in understanding the character. The actor also explained that instead of copying him, he tried to understand his feelings and behaviour.

"I prepared a lot. I met him before the shoot. We met while he was sitting quietly and I just observed him," Nawazuddin told ANI.

"I didn't try to copy him. I focused more on his thoughts--what made him angry, what made him smile. I paid attention to his gestures, postures, and where his madness came from. These were the things I kept in mind. And of course, the script was so strong that it made things easier on set," he added.

Vinod Bhanushali, the producer of Costao, spoke about taking the risk of making a biographical film and shared that it felt right when the team came together.

"When a story like this comes along, you feel it must be told. And when an actor like Nawaz bhai agrees to do it, you feel confident as a producer that the film will turn out well, Once a strong team is formed, we feel this film should be made. And when it comes to risk, well, business always has risks," Bhanushali said.

The film is directed by Sejal Shah, who is making her debut as a filmmaker. It also stars Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal in key roles.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Nawazuddin never disappoints! His dedication to understanding characters is what makes him stand out. Just watched Costao yesterday and his performance gave me goosebumps. The way he portrays that quiet intensity is brilliant 👏
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Priya M.
Interesting to see a film about a Goan customs officer - we need more regional stories in mainstream cinema. Though I wish they'd shown more of the local Goan culture and Konkani language. Still, kudos to the team for bringing this real-life hero's story to light!
A
Amit S.
"Where his madness came from" - what a fascinating way to approach a character! This is why Nawaz is in a league of his own. Most actors just mimic the external traits, but he digs deeper. Can't wait to watch this over the weekend!
S
Shweta R.
The 90s Goa setting sounds intriguing! Hope they've captured that era well - the music, the fashion, the pre-internet rawness. Also curious to see how they've shown the underworld-smuggling angle. Our coastal security forces don't get enough recognition for their work.
V
Vikram J.
Respect to the producer for taking the risk with a biographical film. Our industry needs more original content instead of remakes. Though I wonder if the film will do justice to the complexities of fighting corruption within the system. That's the real challenge our officers face daily.
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Neha T.
Just finished watching - Nawaz is fantastic as always! But the real surprise was Priya Bapat's performance. The film could have been tighter in the second half though. Still, a good weekend watch with some solid dialogues and that vintage Goa vibe 😊

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