Imagine a film so powerful it leaves a seasoned filmmaker feeling humbled and emotionally shaken. That's exactly what happened to Anurag Basu after watching Homebound, a film that has not only captivated audiences but also earned a spot on the shortlist for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. But here's where it gets controversial: Can a film truly make you feel 'small' as a creator, or is it a testament to the boundless potential of cinema? Let’s dive in.
Published on December 25, 2025, the news of Basu's profound reaction to Homebound has sparked conversations across the industry. In an exclusive interview with Zoom, Basu revealed that the film left him so moved that he immediately texted its director, Neeraj Ghaywan. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, Homebound is a story of friendship, duty, and the pressures faced by young India. But it’s not just the plot that’s gripping—it’s the raw, emotional depth that has critics and audiences alike hailing it as a masterpiece.
And this is the part most people miss: Basu didn’t just praise the film; he admitted to feeling a sense of creative inferiority. In his own words, “Cinema is so good that even if you’re not going to meet those people and be in that situation, you live that moment sitting in a theatre. It really affected me. I have never been so affected.” He specifically highlighted Shalini Vatsa’s powerful ‘chappal scene,’ which he described as deeply moving. Earlier, on October 10, Basu had taken to X (formerly Twitter) to call Homebound “a timely, aching film” that deserves every conversation—and yes, an Oscar nod.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound follows childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), whose shared dream of joining the police force shapes their lives. Janhvi Kapoor adds emotional depth to the narrative, making it a story that resonates far beyond its setting. The film premiered on Netflix on November 21 and has since garnered major accolades, including screenings at the Cannes and Toronto International Film Festivals. Inspired by journalist Basharat Peer’s article Taking Amrit Home, Homebound is a testament to the power of storytelling.
As the Academy Awards approach, Homebound stands alongside 14 other films in the International Feature Film category, including Argentina’s Belén, Brazil’s The Secret Agent, and Japan’s Kokuho. The final nominations will be announced on January 22, 2026, but the buzz around Homebound is already undeniable.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Does Homebound deserve its Oscar nod, or is the hype overblown? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this cinematic phenomenon that has even industry giants like Anurag Basu feeling inspired yet humbled.
