Indian cinema has reached a significant milestone as Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026). This recognition positions it among the final 15 films selected from a pool of entries submitted by 86 countries and regions.
Homebound has officially been shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in the International Feature Film category. This achievement means the film is now eligible for the final nomination round, where Academy members will cast their votes after viewing all 15 selected films. Ultimately, only five films will secure final Oscar nominations.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in the lead roles, with Janhvi Kapoor playing a significant supporting role. The film narrates the story of two childhood friends, Shoaib and Chandan, whose common dream of joining the police force shapes their lives amidst social pressures, duty, and friendship. The narrative delves into themes of aspiration, responsibility, and emotional resilience, focusing on the experiences of young India.
Homebound has garnered strong international acclaim. It premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, a prestigious platform for world cinema. Following this, it was screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the Second Runner Up award for the International Audience Choice Award. These festival successes were instrumental in generating global momentum for the film.
The film is produced by Dharma Productions, with Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta as producers. Co-produced by Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier, it features renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar as Executive Producers, enhancing the film's international credibility.
The International Feature Film category recognizes feature-length films produced outside the United States that feature predominantly non-English dialogue. Each country is allowed to submit one official entry, making the selection process exceptionally competitive. Advancing to the final 15 is already considered a major achievement in itself.
Q1. What is the significance of Homebound being shortlisted for the Oscars?
Answer: Being shortlisted for the Oscars signifies recognition of Homebound's artistic merit and enhances its visibility on an international platform, promoting Indian cinema globally.
Q2. Who directed the film Homebound?
Answer: Homebound is directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, known for his impactful storytelling and cinematic vision.
Q3. What themes does Homebound explore?
Answer: The film explores themes of aspiration, responsibility, and emotional resilience through the journey of two childhood friends aspiring to join the police force.
Q4. How did Homebound perform at international film festivals?
Answer: Homebound premiered at Cannes Film Festival and later won the Second Runner Up award at TIFF, showcasing its global appeal and critical acclaim.
Q5. What is the process for selecting films in the Oscars International Feature Film category?
Answer: Each country submits one film, and the Academy selects 15 films for final consideration, leading to nominations where only five films are chosen for the final Oscars.
Question 1: Who is the director of the film Homebound?
A) Karan Johar
B) Neeraj Ghaywan
C) Martin Scorsese
D) Adar Poonawalla
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What award did Homebound win at the Toronto International Film Festival?
A) Best Picture
B) Audience Choice Award
C) Second Runner Up
D) Best Director
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: In which category has Homebound been shortlisted for the Oscars?
A) Best Picture
B) Best International Feature Film
C) Best Director
D) Best Actor
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What is the main theme of the film Homebound?
A) Friendship and betrayal
B) Aspiration and resilience
C) Love and sacrifice
D) Adventure and exploration
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: How many countries submitted entries for the Oscars International Feature Film category?
A) 50
B) 86
C) 100
D) 75
Correct Answer: B
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