Homebound Heads to Oscars: Neeraj Ghaywan Credits Martin Scorsese’s Instrumental Role

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.

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.

“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.

“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.

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