From glitzy red carpets to critical acclaim at coveted film festivals, Neeraj Ghaywan`s Homebound has been making headlines for months now. A six-minute-long standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival, winning at the Toronto International Film Festival, and now becoming India’s official entry to the Oscars, the film has raised the stakes with its milestones. After travelling the world, the Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor starrer is now coming home, all set to hit the Indian screens. But is it worth the global ovations and awards back home? Let`s find out.
Plot
As seen in the trailer, the film begins with two young boys, Chandan (Vishal Jethwa) and Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), who dream of becoming police constables, chasing the respect they`ve been deprived of. One belongs to the scheduled cast, while the other is a Muslim. Once they manage to make it to the exam, the system tests them, while they continue to fight their everyday battles with hope. The wait for the results keeps getting longer, and life keeps happening.
The results finally come out only to reveal that one of them has cleared, while the other fails with no hopes of another attempt. A classic ego clash tests their friendship as they give each other a reality check of their lives in a moment of fury. Romance blooms between Chandan and Sudha (Jahnvi Kapoor), but eventually falters due to the dilemma of education and career.
Eventually, Chandan and Shoaib mend their ways. Keeping their dreams and aspirations aside, they decide to take odd jobs in a different city to support their families. Just when things are falling in place, COVID-19 breaks out, and they are tested all over again. With barely an option to themselves, they set out on their way back home amid curfews, leading to a climax that’s better kept a secret.
Performances
Vishal Jethwa shines the brightest in this one, looking convincing as Chandan right from his first scene. He makes you want to see more of him. Ishaan Khatter does a good job as Shoaib, although he feels disconnected in portions. However, his performance in the climax overcompensates. Janhvi does her part well despite the limited screen time. Harshika Parmar shines as Chandan’s sister. With very limited screentime, her role is definitely among the strongest ones.
Worth or not?
Neeraj Ghaywan does what he’s best at – bringing forth the harsh socio-political realities in a very subtle yet introspective way. The story is powerful with Neeraj’s deep yet uncomplicated storytelling. Shreedhar Dubey, Varun Grover, and the director do a noteworthy job with the dialogues that are poignant and humorous at the right time.
Ishaan and Vishal’s characters are well-written and resonate with the audience. Jahnvi’s character, however, feels undeveloped.
Homebound is definitely worth a watch, as it gives a reality check while making you reflect. The climax is certainly the cherry on the cake. Expect a few sobs around you if you’re watching this one in the cinema hall.
