Neeraj Ghaywan’s “Homebound” has been unanimously selected as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, with the director crediting Martin Scorsese’s extensive involvement as executive producer for the film’s success. The Cannes-premiered drama, which received a nine-minute standing ovation, represents a triumphant return for Ghaywan a decade after his debut “Masaan,” with Scorsese providing detailed script notes and editorial guidance throughout the filmmaking process.
Table of Contents
A Decade-Long Journey Back to Cannes
Ten years after his breakthrough debut “Masaan” captured hearts at Cannes and won both the Fipresci Prize and Promising Future Award, Ghaywan returns to the festival circuit with “Homebound.” The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival on May 21, receiving a remarkable nine-minute standing ovation that left critics and audiences deeply moved.
“In a way, it is like me ‘homebound’ to Cannes,” Ghaywan reflected on his return to the prestigious festival. The director’s journey back wasn’t easy – he admits to struggling with impostor syndrome after the unexpected success of “Masaan,” which paradoxically clipped his wings rather than launching his career.
Martin Scorsese’s Instrumental Contribution
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of “Homebound” is the involvement of Martin Scorsese as executive producer. The legendary director’s participation wasn’t merely ceremonial – his influence shaped the film from script to screen.
| Scorsese’s Contribution | Impact on Homebound |
|---|---|
| Script Development | Provided detailed notes on narrative structure and character arcs |
| Editorial Process | Reviewed three different cuts of the film |
| Creative Guidance | Advised on subtlety versus exposition in storytelling |
| International Credibility | Elevated the film’s global profile and festival prospects |
“He started from the scripting stage,” Ghaywan reveals about Scorsese’s involvement. “He gave copious amounts of notes, not just in the scripting but also on the editing stage. He saw three cuts.” The collaboration came through co-producer Mélita Toscan du Plantier, who had maintained a friendship with Scorsese and knew of his admiration for “Masaan.”
Scorsese’s feedback was characteristically detailed and practical. “They are pretty articulate,” Ghaywan explains. “On email you get very cohesive points which would make sense for the script. He helped me structure the script in various phases, telling me about being expository, saying something with a bigger voice or being more subtle about things.”
The 82-year-old cinema legend’s statement about the film speaks volumes: “I loved the story, the culture and was willing to help. Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that’s a significant contribution to Indian cinema.”
The Story Behind Homebound
“Homebound” follows two childhood friends – Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), a Muslim, and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), a Dalit – from a small North Indian village who dream of becoming police officers. The film explores their journey as they pursue a career that promises the dignity and respect they’ve been systematically denied.
The screenplay, written by Ghaywan, draws inspiration from Basharat Peer’s 2020 New York Times essay “Taking Amrit Home” (later retitled “A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway”). The story unfolds against the backdrop of caste divisions, religious tensions, and the despair of the pandemic lockdown, creating what critics have called “a searing indictment of modern India.”
Critical Acclaim and Festival Success
The film’s reception has been overwhelmingly positive across international festivals:
Cannes Film Festival 2025:
- 9-minute standing ovation
- Premiered in Un Certain Regard section
- Critics praised its “deeply empathetic” portrayal
Toronto International Film Festival:
- Named second runner-up for TIFF People’s Choice Award
- Described as transformative viewing experience
Critical Reception:
- Variety called it “a moving character piece and searing indictment”
- The Hollywood Reporter India praised it as “A Stunning Portrait of Systemic Cruelty and Defiant Courage”
- BBC Culture highlighted its exploration of marginalized communities
The Dharma Productions Factor
The involvement of Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions – known primarily for glossy Bollywood blockbusters – in this intimate, socially conscious drama represents a significant shift in the production house’s approach.
“I don’t know why we get slotted,” Johar says with evident frustration about perceptions of Dharma. “We’ll do mainstream commercial films. We’ll do slightly middle of the road. And we’ll do ‘Homebound.’“
Producer Somen Mishra jokes, “This is the most gareeb [poorest] film that we have ever made. It’s a tight budget, [much] less compared to our other big films. Everyone took a pay cut, which helped make the film possible.”
Oscar Prospects and Industry Impact
The selection of “Homebound” comes after last year’s disappointment when India chose “Laapataa Ladies” over Payal Kapadia’s Cannes prize-winner “All We Imagine as Light,” a decision that sparked debate about the Federation’s selection process. “Laapataa Ladies” ultimately failed to reach the Academy shortlist.
| Recent Indian Oscar Entries | Festival Recognition | Oscar Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| All We Imagine as Light (2024) | Cannes Grand Prix | Not selected by FFI |
| Laapataa Ladies (2024) | Limited festival presence | Failed to reach shortlist |
| Homebound (2025) | Cannes + TIFF recognition | Current Indian entry |
“Homebound’s” strong international festival presence, combined with Scorsese’s backing and critical acclaim, positions it favorably for Oscar consideration. The film’s authentic portrayal of marginalized communities and universal themes of friendship and aspiration could resonate with Academy voters.
Technical Excellence and Performances
The film showcases exceptional technical craftsmanship that supports its emotional narrative:
Cast Performance:
- Ishaan Khatter delivers a career-defining performance as Mohammed
- Vishal Jethwa brings authenticity to the role of Chandan
- Janhvi Kapoor provides naturalistic support in a grounded role
Technical Aspects:
- Pratik Shah’s cinematography captures both intimacy and epic scope
- Naren Chandavarkar and Benedict Taylor’s score blends Indian rhythms with orchestral elements
- Shot primarily in and around Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh in 2024
The film was completed in an impressive 43 production days with a two-month editing timeline to meet festival submission deadlines, demonstrating remarkable efficiency without compromising quality.
Looking Toward Oscar Night
As “Homebound” prepares for its theatrical release in India on September 26, 2025, the film carries the hopes of an entire industry seeking recognition on the world’s biggest cinematic stage. The Oscar ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026, with the shortlist announcement expected on January 22, 2026.
Ghaywan’s statement following the selection encapsulates the film’s significance: “I’m deeply honored that ‘Homebound’ has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars. Rooted in the love for our land and our people, it carries the essence of the home we all share.”
The journey from a New York Times article to Cannes acclaim to Oscar contention represents more than just one film’s success – it signals a potential renaissance for Indian independent cinema on the global stage, with Martin Scorsese’s involvement serving as both validation and bridge between Indian storytelling and international appreciation.
Whether “Homebound” can convert its critical acclaim and festival momentum into Oscar success will depend largely on the campaign strategy in the coming months. With Dharma Productions’ resources, Scorsese’s endorsement, and a deeply moving story that transcends cultural boundaries, the film stands among India’s strongest Oscar contenders in recent years.
Read More: Sixer Season 2 OTT Release Date Expected Soon – TVF’s Cricket Drama Returns on Amazon MX Player
FAQs
What is Homebound about?
Homebound follows two childhood friends from a small North Indian village – a Muslim and a Dalit – who pursue careers as police officers seeking dignity and respect. The film explores their friendship against the backdrop of caste discrimination, religious tensions, and pandemic-era struggles.
How did Martin Scorsese get involved with Homebound?
Co-producer Mélita Toscan du Plantier, who had previously worked on Ghaywan’s “Masaan,” introduced the project to Scorsese. The legendary director had praised “Masaan” in 2015 and was intrigued by Ghaywan’s second feature, ultimately providing extensive script notes and editorial guidance.
What awards has Homebound won so far?
While Homebound hasn’t won major awards yet, it received significant recognition including a nine-minute standing ovation at Cannes 2025, selection in Un Certain Regard, and second runner-up for TIFF People’s Choice Award. It’s now India’s official Oscar entry for 2026.
When will Homebound be released in theaters?
Homebound is scheduled for theatrical release in India on September 26, 2025, following its international festival circuit run including Cannes and Toronto film festivals.
Why is Homebound significant for Indian cinema?
The film represents a convergence of independent Indian storytelling with mainstream production (Dharma) and international recognition (Scorsese). Its selection as India’s Oscar entry signals renewed confidence in socially conscious Indian cinema on the global stage.
