Homebound is one of the most anticipated films of 2025. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, the film tells the moving story of two young men, Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa) and Mohammed Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), who navigate poverty, caste, and faith in small-town India. The film also stars Janhvi Kapoor. It is produced by Karan Johar, Aadar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta under Dharma Productions. Inspired by a real-life story detailed in Basharat Peer’s New York Times article Taking Amrit Home, the movie explores the struggles of migrant workers during the COVID-19 lockdown and their fight for dignity and survival. Homebound is India’s official entry to the Oscars.
Homebound Story
Homebound begins with Chandan and Shoaib traveling in a crowded tractor at night, reading by torchlight, bound for an exam that promises a brighter future. By morning, they arrive at a jam-packed railway station, surrounded by thousands of aspirants, all hoping to secure a police recruitment post. The numbers are staggering—2.5 million applications for 3,500 positions. Chandan quips, “Are we going to an exam or a war?” encapsulating the challenge that awaits them.
The film explores social disparities and identity struggles. Chandan, a Dalit, hides his caste in public to avoid discrimination, while Shoaib, a Muslim, faces prejudice despite his talent and integrity. Their journey is not just physical but deeply emotional, reflecting themes of friendship, sacrifice, and survival. The nationwide COVID-19 lockdown adds another layer of hardship, separating them from family and confronting them with life’s harsh realities.
Based on Basharat Peer’s article Taking Amrit Home, Homebound turns a real-life story into an evocative cinematic experience. The narrative is heartbreaking, yet full of hope, examining how social inequities and systemic barriers shape individual destinies.
Homebound Movie Review
Homebound delivers a deeply affecting, human-centric story that leaves a lasting impact. The film avoids melodrama and preachiness. It doesn’t dictate what to feel—it simply holds up a mirror to society. Director Neeraj Ghaywan ensures that every scene is purposeful, with precise pacing across its two-hour runtime. His direction is brilliant, just like his previous work, Masaan.
From the very first scene, Homebound grips you with its raw realism and deeply human storytelling. The journey of Chandan and Shoaib is both heartbreaking and inspiring. It’s not just a film about survival—it’s about hope, friendship, and confronting societal inequalities. Neeraj Ghaywan captures their story with empathy, subtlety, and a keen eye for detail, making it one of the most emotionally resonant films in recent times.
The film’s brilliance lies in its subtlety. The struggles of Chandan and Shoaib feel authentic. Moments like Chandan’s confession about hiding his caste—“Sach bolte hain toh sabse dur ho jaate hain, aur jhooth bolte hain toh khud se”—hit hard. The narrative balances social commentary, personal struggle, and emotional resonance perfectly. The film slows down a little, but gathers momentum quickly.
Technically, the film excels. Cinematography captures the grit and beauty of small-town India. Lighting, sound design, and editing enhance the story without drawing attention away from the characters. The background score by Naren Chandavarkar and Benedict Taylor heightens the emotional intensity in the right moments. Production design, costumes, and casting all contribute seamlessly, creating an immersive world.
Homebound Performances
Ishaan Khatter delivers a career-defining performance as Shoaib. He is restrained, magnetic, and mature beyond his years. Vishal Jethwa is equally impressive as Chandan, bringing raw honesty and depth to his character. Shalini Vatsa, as Chandan’s mother, adds quiet grace, while Janhvi Kapoor leaves a memorable impression in her brief appearance.
The chemistry between Ishan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa is the heart of the film. Their friendship feels lived-in and authentic, making the audience care deeply about their journey. Every actor, down to minor roles, contributes to the film’s realism and emotional weight.
Final Verdict
Homebound is a cinematic gem that’s as thought-provoking as it is heart-wrenching. It explores identity, caste, faith, and survival without ever feeling forced or melodramatic. Neeraj Ghaywan’s direction, combined with stellar performances by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, makes this film unmissable.
It is a story that stays with you after the credits roll. Heartbreaking, emotional, and profoundly human. Homebound deserves every bit of its critical acclaim and is India’s official entry to the Oscars.
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4/5)
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