The film ‘Homebound,’ directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been chosen to represent India at the Oscars. This film has captured the attention of audiences with its profound neo-realism. The film is reminiscent of Satyajit Ray’s ‘Pather Panchali’ in its ability to evoke deep emotion and explore the human condition. Ghaywan’s approach to storytelling, as seen in ‘Masaan’ and ‘Homebound,’ is distinguished by its authenticity and poetic quality. The narrative of ‘Homebound’ revolves around the lives of two friends, a Dalit and a Muslim, played by Vishal Jetha and Ishaan Khattar, respectively. The performances by the cast are marked by subtlety and authenticity. The film’s capacity to depict persecution and resilience is remarkable, and a standout moment involves Shalini Vats. ‘Homebound’ is a powerful cinematic achievement, with every scene contributing to the story’s impact.
