Neeraj Ghaywan’s much-anticipated Homebound finally arrives in cinemas today after making waves at Cannes and earning India’s official entry spot for the Oscars. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, the gripping drama based on Bashar

Neeraj Ghaywan’s much-anticipated Homebound finally arrives in cinemas today after making waves at Cannes and earning India’s official entry spot for the Oscars. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, the gripping drama based on Basharat Peer’s New York Times article is already the talk of the town. Let’s dive into what the reviews have to say.

Times of India

“Homebound hits like a thunderbolt, unleashing a whirlwind of emotions—personal, socio-political, and, above all, deeply humane. With a perfectly paced two-hour runtime, the film never drags. The narrative doesn’t feel agenda-driven—it simply holds up a mirror to society, serving as a stark and stirring commentary on our growing apathy. You don’t see the storm coming—but when it hits, it shakes you to the core and leaves you numb. Yes, it’s tragic, but the characters never indulge in self-pity or despair. Long after the end credits roll, you're still seated, overwhelmed, tears rolling down your cheeks.”

PC: Tiff

“The film excels across the board—performance, storytelling, technical finesse, and dialogue. The writing by Shreedhar Dubey, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Varun Grover is deeply affecting. From sound design and lighting to cinematography, each piece elevates the story. The performances are outstanding. Ishaan Khatter delivers a career-defining performance—measured, magnetic, and mature. Vishal Jethwa is equally riveting—raw, honest, and an absolute revelation. Shalini Vatsa, as Chandan’s mother, leaves a lasting impression with quiet grace. Janhvi Kapoor is sincere in her brief appearance.”

PC: The Hindu, BBC

IMDB

“Neeraj Ghaywan returns with Homebound, another film that thrives on realism and emotional depth. It weaves an honest narrative about friendship, ambition, and the harsh truths of society, all while introducing new characters and conflicts that add freshness to the journey. The cinematography beautifully captures the intimacy of friendships and the emptiness of pandemic-era spaces. The production design and chosen locations feel authentic and rooted in reality. Ultimately, Homebound succeeds as a heartfelt story that mixes friendship, social struggles, career dilemmas, and personal choices into a meaningful narrative. For those who appreciate realistic cinema with emotional resonance, Homebound is well worth a watch.”

PC: The Hollywood Reporter

The Indian Express

“Neeraj Ghaywan backed by Dharma Entertainment has crafted a film which is urgently, cracklingly contemporary, speaking of and to an India where the advantage of birth and religion has unfairly deprived a whole section of its citizens from benefits most of us take for granted. Both Khatter and Jethwa are excellent, with the latter feeling closer hewn to his character. But if this film belongs to just one person, it is Shalini Vatsa. Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars. It may or may not bring an Oscar home. What it has done is to bring up troubling home truths, unflinchingly but without rancour, which lends the film a note of compassion and cautious optimism, something we so desperately need in these times.”