Sandeep Heble

Good movies come once in a while. The Konkani movie “Juze” is one of them. A powerful, thought provoking and yet delightful film with a well- worn narrative which keeps you hooked throughout. Juze is the oppressive slum lord, a virtual don who terrorises the migrants who live and work for him. A young school going boy Santosh shows signs of resilience and courage to stand up to him. Will he succeed? The saga of fear, courage and hope is what makes the movie such an engaging watch. There is also a cute love story going between Santosh and his school crush Maya which adds charm to the Film and takes you on a nostalgic trip, reminding you of your own school and college days. The lead actors, most of them theatre actors who are making their Film debut, have all put in brilliant and commendable performances. The movie features Rushikesh Naik as Santosh, Sudesh Bhise as the slum lord and Barkha Naik as Maya. Prashanti Talpankar, an established actor, excels in her role as the despairing grandmother. Miransha Naik’s first film as a Director is absolutely brilliant. The scenic locales mostly from South Goa are captured beautifully. After Nochom-ia Kumpasar, this is yet another movie which raises the bar of Konkani cinema. The movie, on par with some of the best films from World cinema, is getting rave reviews and winning International acclaims. Currently being screened at all the Inox multiplexes, you shouldn’t miss watching this one.