HOMEBOUND: WHEN FRIENDSHIP MEETS TRAGEDY

Director: Neeraj Ghaywan 

Cast: Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor 

Rating: 4.5/5

India’s official entry for Best International Feature at the 98th Academy Awards, Homebound, is based on Basharat Peer’s New York Times article, “A Friendship, a Pandemic and a Death Beside the Highway.” 

 

Key Highlights

Visuals: The film’s visuals are deeply immersive. Every frame feels unfiltered, perfectly complementing the story’s emotional depth.

Storyline: Homebound follows two childhood friends, a Dalit and a Muslim, who dream of escaping social discrimination by joining the police force. The film explores the harsh realities of systemic inequality and the enduring struggle for basic dignity in a society where caste and religion determine a person's worth.

Performance: Ishaan Khatter delivers a soul-stirring performance, portraying his character’s quiet strength and pain with remarkable authenticity. Vishal Jethwa brings a raw emotional intensity that makes his role unforgettable, while Janhvi Kapoor delivers one of her most mature performances to date.

Direction: Neeraj Ghaywan’s direction is detailed and deeply observant. It reflects a balance of realism and emotion. 

Reception: The film has received critical acclaim internationally. Critics have praised its emotional depth and the outstanding performances of the lead actors. 

Area for Improvement 

The pacing is noticeably slow at times, which may test the patience of some viewers.

Final Words 

Homebound is a thought-provoking film that shows the struggles of caste and religion with honesty. It’s a cinematic experience that lingers long after it ends.

Verdict 

A beautiful and emotionally rich film, Homebound is one of Neeraj Ghaywan’s finest works, powered by stellar performances from the cast. It's a must-watch!