'Never been so affected': 'Homebound' made Anurag Basu feel 'small'
What's the story
Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Basu recently praised Neeraj Ghaywan's film Homebound, which is representing Indian cinema at the Oscars 2026. In a recent interview with Zoom for the Best Performances Directors 2025 roundtable, Basu spoke about how he was deeply affected by the movie while watching it in a theater. He particularly lauded Ghaywan's storytelling and the performance of actor Shalini Vatsa.
Film impact
'Homebound' deeply affected Basu
Basu said, "Neeraj ka film dekhke, I really felt small. I messaged him also. Cinema itna accha hai na shayad aise logon se aapki mulaqat na ho." He added, "Cinema is so good that even if you're not going to meet those people and be in that situation, you still live that moment sitting in a theatre. It really affected me." "I have never been so affected. Shalini Vatsa's chappal scene shook me."
Earlier acclaim
Basu's previous praise for 'Homebound'
Earlier, on October 10, Basu had posted about Homebound, saying, "Saw #Homebound last night and I'm still in its beautiful hangover." "A timely, aching film that deserves every conversation and yes an Oscar nod." He added that Ghaywan made him feel "wonderfully inferior as a filmmaker." The film also stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa.
Oscar nod
'Homebound' shortlisted for Oscars 2026
Homebound has been shortlisted in the International Feature Film category by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The film tells the story of Shoaib and Chandan, who face societal injustices based on caste and religion. Their friendship is tested when COVID-19 changes their lives. Homebound is currently streaming on Netflix.