'Homebound' Movie Review, Netizens Call Ishan Khatter And Vishal Starrer, 'An Absolute Masterpiece'

Homebound, the 2025 film, narrates a tale of friendship between two childhood friends, Mohammed Shoaib Ali, played by Ishan Khatter and Chandan Kumar, played by Vishal Jethwa. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, the film also stars Janhvi Kapoor and Reem Shaikh among others. The movie had its world premiere on May 21, 2025, at the Cannes Film Festival. It also received a 9-minute standing ovation at the red-carpet event. Now that the film has hit the big screens on September 26, 2025, here comes the review of the movie.

What to expect in Neeraj Ghaywan's Homebound movie?

Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, is a tale of friendship between two boys, 'Mohammed Shoaib Ali' (played by Ishaan Khatter) and 'Chandan Kumar' (played by Vishal Jethwa), who hail from a marginalised background. Both 'Shoaib' and 'Chandan' dream of becoming police constables, as they believe that this job will earn them the respect that they’ve always been denied. However, life took the duo in different directions.

'Chandan' meets 'Sudha Bharti' (played by Janhvi Kapoor), who wants him to study further instead of settling for the police constable’s job. Meanwhile, 'Shoaib' struggles with financial problems at his home. These challenges create differences between the two, making them question how unfairly the system has been treating people like them. The film is not just about caste and religion; it’s about true friendship.

Netizens share reviews about Neeraj Ghaywan's Homebound

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound has finally hit theatres, and the early reactions are very positive. The audience, especially those who watched it at the premiere, are lauding the film, calling it a masterpiece and also praising the performances of Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Pointing at how the film made it way into the Oscar nomination in 2026, a user wrote, "#Homebound is one of those films that doesn’t just end with credits, it lingers. Neeraj Ghaywan made something that feels so close to home, yet strong enough to travel. Feels special that this is the film stepping out for us, from India to the Oscars, from our towns to the world."

Calling the film 'an absolute masterpiece', a user commented, "#Homebound Movie Review @ghaywan delivers an absolute masterpiece! A raw, emotional story of friendship, dignity & struggle that hits straight to the heart.. @DharmaMovies." Lauding the actors, a user wrote, "Once again, @DharmaMovies backed strong content and brought it to mainstream cinema; both the actors looked promising in their characters. JK was nice." Expressing pride over the film’s selection at the Oscars nomination, "#DharmaProductions' #Homebound, directed by #NeerajGhaywan, has been selected as #India's official entry for the #Oscars2026. Had the privilege of watching it yesterday – one word to describe it: BRILLIANT. #KaranJohar."

What are critics saying about the film?

Homebound has struck a strong chord with critics, who are praising it for its emotional depth, social message, and outstanding performances. The film, based on journalist, Basharat Peer’s New York Times article, blends the personal struggles with the major backdrop of the migrant crisis during the pandemic, Covid-19, creating a beautiful narrative that is both intimate and universal.

Critics are lauding Homebound for its emotional yet simple storytelling. They praised Neeraj Ghaywan’s direction, the stellar performances of Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, and the film’s true portrayal of rural India and the migrant struggles, calling it deeply moving and unforgettable.

What are your thoughts on the movie, Homebound? Let us know.

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