TGLife
Musical film Konkani film Kantaar, starring Jackie Shroff, Ester Noronha and Noel Sean was premiered at Ravindra Bhavan Margao. The film that features 15 local Goan stage artists, also steals the credit to be the first film in which veteran singer Lorna who is also known the nightingale of Goa, will for the first time perform as a playback singer on the silver screen.
Produced by Janet Noronha, the film is directed by Nilesh Malkar and the trailer has already been released. Targeting the Konkani speaking audience in Goa the film will be screened in the theatres in Margao, Panaji and other prominent cities in the State.
The film, is the second movie of Malkar who has also directed the film Soul Curry starring Jackie Shroff. “Kantaar revolves round the philosophy of life,” shares Ester Noronha who plays the lead female character in the film. It is her second Konkani film, the first being Sophiya, which turned out to be a hit. Ester appeals the audience to watch Konkani films in theatres and thus contribute to the growth of this upcoming Konkani film industry.
Shot in South Goa, Kantaar took 22 days to complete. It was shot mainly in Margao, Benaulim and Varca area. The dubbing was done in a state-of-the-art studio in Mumbai. “The film, through the Goan way of life, shows how youth approaches life. It is the story of life told through music. The main protagonist is played by Jackie Shroff while Ester represents today’s youth. It is noteworthy that Jackie took efforts to learn to speak Konkani in 15 days. All the dubbing is in his original voice,” briefs Malkar who has done Soul Curry with the actor earlier. “Living life is easy, but dying is very difficult,” can be the one liner of the film, according to Malkar.
Janet Noronha, the producer of the film was happy with the overall experience of making the film. Understanding the need for promotion of Konkani film she set a separate budget for it. “Unless the people know about the film, see the trailer and teasers, how should we expect that they would turn up in the theatres?” she asks and adds, “We must make all efforts to reach out to the audience and present a good story. If the story is strong and carries a social message, the film is appreciated.”
Noel Sean, an actor from Hyderabad, shared his experiences in Goa. “It was good to interact with the locals and learn their language. People here are friendly and hospitable. I have fallen in love with the nature, sea and the people in Goa. I would like to come here again,” he promises.
