A tale of deceit and betrayal

Jacinto Cruz’s first Konkani film in DVD format, ‘Chori’, revolves around a family where the youngest son, John (Ulhas Tari), joins the seminary against the wishes of his mother (Diana). The eldest son, Steve (Pascoal Rodrigues), is in love with Sandy (Antonette de Maina).

As Sandy is an orphan, Steve’s mother takes advantage of the situationand assures to unite her with her eldest son on the fulfilment of one condition. Despite much hesitation, she finally agrees.

John, now a brother, is serving in the same village where Sandy lives. On the behest of his mother, she tries to seduce Bro John. She then blackmails him and after falling prey to her tactics, he obliges to give up his vocation.

Once her plan is fulfilled, Sandy deserts John and reveals that she is only interested in marrying Steve. Unable to stand the betrayal, John commits a crime.

What step does Steve as all of this unfolds? What is John’s fate? Who feels responsible for the ruin of the family?

‘Chori’ has an interesting tale to relate, but the casting could have been handled more diligently. Even the name of the film doesn’t fit as the entire film speaks about love and betrayal, as well as deserting one’s vocation; the image on the cover and the contents of the film have nothing to do with the title ‘Chori’.

Ulhas Tari and Pascoal Rodrigues play their roles well as siblings in the family. Diana handles her wicked character tactfully. Antonette de Maina does justice to her role.

In the comic acts, Janet, Filipe, Selvy, Richard and comedian Agostinho form a perfect quintet for some lighter moments. But more comedy scenes would have enhanced the presentation.

Rendition of songs by Bushka, Lawry, Rosario de Benaulim and Marcus Vaz are appealing to the ear. But they should have been divided in between the acts, instead of clubbing them all together.

Joywin Fernandes has handled the photography while the recording and dubbing has been done at Magic Studio, Margao under the guidance of Chris Correia. The film has been edited by Atmaram Sawant, with Norman Cardozo as the music director.

The DVD has been produced by Joseph D’Cruz, Marcel D’Cruz and Jose Rodrigues.