Talking about the same, Director Neeraj Ghaywan, added, “Inspired by a true story of friendship, Homebound explores the universal themes of connection and compassion as forms of quiet resistance. After screening in competition at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals and loved by everyone, it has now found a home on Netflix, reaching audiences in 190 countries. I am truly excited for this opportunity and deeply value my long-standing relationship with Netflix throughout my career.”

Adding onto that, Karan Johar, Producer, Dharma Productions, said, “Homebound is the kind of film that reminds us why stories matter – intimate, layered and guided with great care by Neeraj. As producers, supporting a film like this has been a privilege. Seeing the film reach Netflix allows it to connect with audiences far beyond its immediate world, and that journey is incredibly special for us at Dharma.”

Monika Shergill, Vice-President, Content, Netflix India, shares, “We’re delighted to welcome Homebound to Netflix after its acclaimed theatrical run. It is a film that explores an extraordinarily nuanced emotional landscape — one that only a storyteller like Neeraj Ghaywan could bring to life with such empathy and honesty. His voice continues to redefine the grammar of contemporary Indian storytelling. Ishan, Vishal and the entire cast deliver deeply felt performances that anchor the film and bring this moving story to life with remarkable sincerity. Our longstanding collaboration with Dharma Productions has been built on creative trust and a shared vision for quality storytelling — one that has resonated with audiences worldwide. With India’s narratives gaining growing recognition at the Oscars and on the world stage, Homebound is a poignant reminder of the depth and universality of our stories.”

Homebound’s festival journey added to its momentum, with a celebrated *premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes 2025,* followed by an *impactful screening at TIFF* – where it secured the *Second Runner-Up* spot for the International Audience Choice Award. What began as a rooted Indian story now unfolds across borders, cultures, and time zones inviting the world to witness its quiet power. Its world grows bigger and its emotions find new meaning on a global streaming stage.

By Keerti Kadam

The post ‘Homebound’, India’s official entry for the 98th Academy Awards, is ready to stream on Netflix from 21 November! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Sharing his emotions on the historic moment, Vishal Jethwa said “This moment feels absolutely surreal it’s the kind of news every actor dreams of hearing one day. To know that Homebound is representing India on the world’s biggest cinematic stage is beyond anything I imagined when I began my journey in films. I’m incredibly thankful to Neeraj Ghaywan for not only believing in me but for entrusting me with a role that challenged me as an artist and transformed me as a person. Working with #IshaanKhatter and #JanhviKapoor was equally special they were more than just co-actors; they were supportive collaborators who made every scene richer with their energy and generosity.

This recognition isn’t just a milestone for me personally it’s a testament to the entire team’s hard work, passion, and the power of Indian storytelling. I feel proud to be a part of a film that carries a piece of our culture and heart to an international audience. To be standing alongside such incredible talent and representing my country on a global platform is truly humbling, and I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead.”

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker #NeerajGhaywan, Homebound has already received critical acclaim on the international festival circuit for its poignant storytelling and gripping performances. Homebound follows the journey of two childhood friends in a North Indian village, striving to land a police job. However, as they edge closer to their dream, desperation and personal conflict begin to test the strength of their bond.

Produced by Dharma Productions, Homebound will now embark on its Oscar campaign journey, aiming to bring India closer to another historic win at the Academy Awards.

Starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, the film is set to release in theatres on September 26.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Vishal Jethwa is on cloud nine as Homebound becomes India’s Official Entry at the 98th Academy Awards! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

The story revolves around two childhood friends from a small North Indian village #Chandan, a Dalit boy, and #Shoaib, a Muslim boy. Bound by dreams of becoming police officers, they believe the uniform will earn them respect and lift their families out of hardship. But life has a harsher script in store.

When the police exam results are delayed for a year, their journeys begin to diverge. Shoaib, compelled by his family’s financial struggles, takes up a peon’s job, while Chandan pursues higher education. Eventually, Chandan clears the exam, but Shoaib doesn’t—creating a painful rift between them. To make matters worse, bureaucratic delays rob Chandan of his appointment letter, crushing his hopes. With no choice left, he migrates to Surat to earn money and build a proper home for his family. Around the same time, Shoaib, disillusioned after enduring religious discrimination at work, joins Chandan in Surat, saving for his father’s knee surgery.

Just as life begins to stabilize, the COVID-19 pandemic strikes. In their desperate attempt to return home, tragedy befalls them—Chandan doesn’t survive the journey.

What makes HomeBound resonate is not just its honest portrayal of caste, religion, and systemic injustice, but also its quiet moments of kindness and resilience that shine even in despair. Director #NeerajGhaywan crafts a narrative that is raw yet tender, ensuring the emotional weight lingers long after the credits roll.

Performances are the film’s strongest anchor. #IshaanKhatter brings an understated vulnerability to Chandan, while #VishalJethwa delivers an equally compelling act as Shoaib. Their chemistry gives the film its emotional core, making the audience invest deeply in their journey.

HomeBound is more than the story of two friends it is a mirror reflecting the countless lives whose dreams are tested against the unforgiving realities of our times. A poignant watch, it leaves you shaken, moved, and perhaps more empathetic.

Rating: ***1/2

By Team CineBuster

The post Review : HomeBound – A Tale of Dreams, Struggles, and Unbreakable Bonds first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

As the lights came up and applause filled the theater, Vishal greeted the audience with a heartfelt “Namaste” and “Assalamalaikum,” earning an emotional and warm response. Attendees lauded his integrity and genuine nature, noting how his respectful gestures reflected the values he brings to his craft.

Speaking modestly about the acclaim, Vishal shared, “Honestly, I’m a little taken aback by all this love and appreciation. I didn’t expect this reaction. I simply trusted #NeerajGhaywan sir’s vision and followed his instructions every step of the way. Everything you’ve appreciated about my performance is really a reflection of the guidance I received on set. To be here at TIFF and feel this kind of warmth from an international audience is surreal and deeply humbling.”

Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound has been creating buzz across the global festival circuit for its powerful storytelling and performances. Vishal Jethwa’s grounded approach and authenticity have once again reinforced his place as one of India’s most promising young actors.

The thunderous applause and heartfelt reactions at TIFF have not only celebrated Vishal’s acting talent but also highlighted his humility a rare combination that is fast making him a global favorite.

By Keerti Kadam

The post For Vishal Jethwa, the warmth from an international audience at TIFF is surreal and deeply humbling! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Homebound marks Ghaywan’s long-awaited return to the big screen and to #Cannes , a decade after his debut film #Masaan premiered at the festival and won two awards. In the years since, Masaan has continued to deeply resonate with audiences in India and beyond — making Homebound one of the year’s most keenly awaited films.

Talking about the collaboration, Martin Scorsese said, “I have seen Neeraj’s first film Masaan in 2015 and I loved it, so when #MélitaToscanduPlantier sent me the project of his second film, I was curious. I loved the story, the culture and was willing to help. Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that’s a significant contribution to Indian cinema. I am glad the movie is an official selection at Un Certain Regard in Cannes this year”

Sharing his thoughts on the film, producer #KaranJohar shared,”Homebound is an extraordinary confluence of talent, vision, and storytelling at its finest. Having Martin Scorsese, a true legend of cinema, lend his wisdom and support to Neeraj’s remarkable vision elevates our film to a rare artistic height. Neeraj Ghaywan continues to be one of the most authentic and insightful voices in Indian cinema today, and we are immensely proud to support him on this journey. With an incredibly gifted cast and the prestigious stage of Cannes, we eagerly look forward to sharing Homebound’s powerful story with audiences around the world.”

Reflecting on this collaboration, Neeraj Ghaywan said: “To have an icon like Mr. Scorsese lend his name to Homebound is an honour beyond words. I’m deeply grateful to our co-producer Melita Toscan, who introduced us to him. Mr. Scorsese mentored us through the screenplay and multiple rounds of editing. He listened with care, understood the cultural context, and offered thoughtful, incisive notes each time. His kindness and commitment are extraordinary, and to have him nurture our film has been both a rare privilege and a profoundly humbling experience.”

Homebound has also secured French distribution through Ad Vitam, the acclaimed distributor behind celebrated international films, including Oscar-winners #AFantasticWoman and #SonofSaul , which also won the Grand Prix at Cannes.

Produced by Karan Johar, #AdarPoonawalla , #ApoorvaMehta and #SomenMishra with #MarijkedeSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier as co-producers, Homebound promises to carry forward Ghaywan’s exploration of human relationships and social landscapes in modern-day India.

With Scorsese’s backing and its Cannes selection as the sole Indian title this year, Homebound sets the stage for a stirring and compelling film that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Martin Scorsese boards Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound as Executive Producer! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

The post Richa Chadha urges fellow actors to promote writers, creators and directors first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Vicky is known for his performances in much acclaimed films like Masaan, Raazi, Love Per Square Foot. What’s common in his filmography is that he has most often worked with first time directors. Be it Neeraj Ghaywan (Masaan), Anand Tiwari (Love Per Square Foot) or Aditya Dhar (URI) and now, Bhanu Pratap Singh for Bhoot.

Talking about his experience working with them, Vicky said, ”I have more often worked with new directors. The energy working with them is very refreshing. It feels like a school project collaboration – all of us sharing and discussing our ideas. It’s a completing different vibe.”

Zee Studios presents Bhoot, a Dharma Productions Film. The film directed by Bhanu Pratap Singh is slated to release on 21st February. It also features Bhumi Pednerkar and Ashutosh Rana.

The post Debut directors lucky for Vicky Kaushal first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.