Ishaan Khatter's 'Homebound' Makes Oscars Shortlist; Karan Johar Celebrates

The film 'Homebound,' directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, has advanced to the shortlist for the 98th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, the movie was India's official entry for the prestigious award.

Both Karan Johar and Neeraj Ghaywan have expressed their delight at the film's achievement.

The Academy unveiled the shortlists for 12 categories on Tuesday, with 15 films making the cut for Best International Feature. From this group, five will be selected as the final nominees, to be announced on January 22nd.

'Homebound' will compete with films from other countries, including Argentina ('Belen'), Brazil ('The Secret Agent'), France ('It Was Just an Accident'), Germany ('Sound of Falling'), Iraq ('The President’s Cake'), Japan ('Kokuho'), Jordan ('All That’s Left of You'), Norway ('Sentimental Value'), Palestine ('Palestine 36'), South Korea ('No Other Choice'), Spain ('Sirat'), Switzerland ('Late Shift'), Taiwan ('Left-Handed Girl'), and Tunisia ('The Voice of Hind Rajab').

Karan Johar's Reaction

Karan Johar shared his excitement about 'Homebound's' Oscar journey. He posted the film's poster on social media, stating he was overjoyed by the news and struggling to express his feelings.

"Homebound has been shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards. We’re deeply grateful for the extraordinary love and support we’ve received from around the world," Johar wrote.

He also added on Instagram, “I am not sure I can articulate how proud, elated and over the moon I am with the journey of #HOMEBOUND all of us @dharmamovies are privileged to have this proud and important film in our filmography,” further thanking Neeraj Ghaywan for making their dreams come true, from Cannes to the Oscar shortlist. He also extended his love to the cast, crew, and teams involved in the film, encouraging viewers to stream 'Homebound' on Netflix.

Director Neeraj Ghaywan's Response

Similarly, Neeraj Ghaywan shared the film's poster on his social media, expressing his gratitude. "#Homebound has been shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards! @TheAcademy. We’re deeply grateful for the extraordinary love and support we've received from around the world."

About 'Homebound'

'Homebound' tells the story of two childhood friends, Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), who both aspire to become police officers. The film explores the challenges they face due to systemic and societal obstacles.

The movie delves into themes of friendship, duty, and the pressures faced by young Indians navigating oppression, class disparities, and economic hardships.

'Homebound' is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra. Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier are co-producers, with Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar serving as executive producers. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival. It is currently available for streaming on Netflix.