Oscars 2026: Ishaan-Vishal's 'Homebound' makes it to the shortlist
What's the story
Neeraj Ghaywan's critically acclaimed film Homebound, featuring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The film is now one of 15 contenders in the category and will compete for a spot among the final five nominees, to be announced in January.
Competition
'Homebound' joins prestigious company in Oscar race
The other films that have made it to the shortlist are Argentina's Belen, Brazil's The Secret Agent, France's It Was Just an Accident, Germany's Sound of Falling, Iraq's The President's Cake, Japan's Kokuho, Jordan's All That's Left of You, and Norway's 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) are also in the running.
Plot
'Homebound' explores caste, religion, and unfulfilled dreams
Homebound tells the story of childhood friends Shoaib (Khatter) and Chandan (Jethwa), who dream of becoming police officers. The film delves into their struggles with caste, religion, and societal pressures in a small North Indian village. Meanwhile, Dharma Productions's Instagram page celebrated the news, saying, "We're deeply grateful for the extraordinary love and support we've received from around the world."