Homebound misses Oscar nomination as 98th Academy Awards Shortlist is announced

India’s Oscar hopes took a disappointing turn on Thursday morning as Homebound failed to secure a nomination at the 98th Academy Awards. 

The Neeraj Ghaywan directorial, which was India’s official entry, did not make it to the final list of five films in the Best International Feature category.

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Homebound Fails to Enter Final Oscar List

Despite strong buzz and critical acclaim, Homebound could not advance beyond the shortlist stage. The film had earlier made it to the Academy’s shortlist of 15 films, raising expectations of a historic nomination. However, when the final nominations were announced, Homebound was absent from the top five.

The films that secured nominations in the Best International Feature category this year are Brazil’s The Secret Agent, France’s It Was Just an Accident, Norway’s Sentimental Value, Spain’s Sirât, and Tunisia’s The Voice of Hind Rajab.

Only three Indian films have ever been nominated in this category — Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay! (1988), and Lagaan (2001).

About the Film and Its Journey

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound tells the story of childhood friends Shoaib and Chandan, played by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa. Their shared dream of joining the police force shapes their lives, reflecting themes of friendship, duty, and the pressures faced by young Indians. Janhvi Kapoor plays a key role, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

The film premiered on Netflix on November 21 and has since earned recognition across international film festivals and award platforms.

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Critical Praise and Stellar Team Behind the Film

Homebound is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, with co-producers Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar served as executive producers.

The convincing chemistry between Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, Vishal’s impactful climax, and Janhvi Kapoor’s earnest portrayal made the movie standout.

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 16.