MUMBAI: Zee5 has unveiled the trailer for its much-anticipated original film Costao, a gritty drama set against the backdrop of 1990s Goa. The film follows the fearless customs officer Costao Fernandes, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, as he dares to challenge an empire fuelled by smuggling, corruption, and fear.

Directed by debutant Sejal Shah, Costao promises a powerful narrative of courage, sacrifice, and the brutal cost of defying a corrupt system. Joining Nawazuddin in the cast are Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal. The film is set to premiere on Zee5 on 1 May.

The trailer introduces viewers to Costao’s unrelenting fight against the underworld and his own system, showcasing heart-pounding action and emotional depth. When a deadly confrontation with a notorious smuggler’s brother ignites a high-stakes manhunt, Costao finds himself hunted and betrayed. Battling alone for justice, family, and redemption, he embodies audacious courage and sharp instincts. As the stakes rise, the question looms can he survive the system he dares to oppose and at what cost?

A Zee5 spokesperson commented, “At Zee5, we remain steadfast in our mission to tell stories that challenge norms and ignite meaningful dialogue. Real-life stories like Costao hold immense significance for us as they reflect courage, resilience, and truths that deserve to be seen and heard. The film is a strong addition to our expanding original film slate, with a story that is not only compelling but also thought-provoking. Our collaboration with the makers reflects a shared vision for delivering powerful narratives that go beyond the expected. As we continue to focus on differentiated storytelling, we are proud to back films like Costao that leave a deep and lasting impression on viewers.”

Producer Vinod Bhanushali added, "We've always loved creating untold stories that are as interesting as they are unique, and Costao is the perfect example of that. With Nawazuddin in the lead, you know you're in for something special. His performance as Costao is pure magic raw, intense, and layered in a way that will keep you hooked from the very first second. After Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, we felt Costao deserved a platform like Zee5 for the story to reach the right audience. Our shared vision for authentic storytelling perfectly aligned, allowing us to craft a movie that challenges conventions and surprises at every turn. As a movie Costao demands your attention, and trust me, you won’t want to look away. We’re beyond excited for you to experience this rollercoaster when it drops on May 1!"

Speaking about her debut, director Shah said, “Costao is the story of an officer who risked his life to do the right thing and paid the price for it. It’s raw, intense, and full of moments that will leave you questioning how far one person can go in the name of duty. Bringing this world to life has been a challenge and a privilege, and I couldn’t have asked for a better actor than Nawazuddin to play Costao. He brings an unmatched authenticity and complexity to the character. Zee5 has always backed bold, powerful storytelling, and I’m excited to collaborate with them. I can't wait for audiences to experience Costao a story that deserves to be told."

Nawazuddin reflected on his role, saying, "Costao is not just a story about a customs officer fighting against a ruthless smuggling empire it's about the cost of standing up to an entire system built on corruption and betrayal. There is a dialoug in the film where the character says ‘Humare society mein sabko chahiye ki Officer honest ho aur brave ho… lekin Ghar mein Nahi’; it’s so true. Costao’s courage in the face of unbeatable odds reflects this perfectly. His battle is not only against criminals but against a system that tries to break him at every turn. I can’t wait for viewers to experience the explosive twists, raw emotion, and relentless intensity that Costao brings. It’s a story that will keep you at the edge, questioning what’s right, what’s wrong, and what one man is willing to sacrifice for justice. Don’t miss it; Costao drops on May 1"

Produced by Vinod, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Bhavesh Mandalia, Shah, Shyam Sunder, and Faizuddin Siddiqui, and written by Mandalia and Meghna Srivastava, Costao is poised to be a must-watch thriller.

Watch the trailer here.