Martin Scorsese-Produced Drama "Homebound" Shines as One of India's Best Films

'Homebound' Review: A Scorching Drama of Friendship Amid Systemic Injustice MUMBAI, INDIA - In a year marked by numerous outstanding Indian films, Neeraj Ghaywan's "Homebound" stands out as one of the most powerful and poignant dramas to emerge from the country. The Martin Scorsese-produced film, which premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, has been hailed as a masterpiece by critics and audiences alike. At its core, "Homebound" is a story about two young men, Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), who embark on a perilous journey to their village during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film's narrative is a scorching indictment of systemic injustice, as these two friends from different backgrounds - one Muslim, the other Dalit - face unimaginable hardships in their quest for survival. The piggyback ride that Shoaib shares with Chandan early on in the film becomes a powerful metaphor for humanity. "It's a moment of great tenderness and vulnerability," says Ghaywan in an interview. "Shoaib is carrying the weight of his friend, but also the weight of their shared struggles." This poignant image sets the tone for the rest of the film, which is a heart-wrenching exploration of friendship, love, and resilience. "Homebound" has been praised for its raw, unflinching portrayal of life in rural India. "The film's use of location and setting is breathtaking," says critic Anupama Chopra. "It's as if the camera is breathing with the characters." The film's cinematography, handled by Sudeep Chatterjee, has been particularly lauded for its ability to capture the harsh realities of rural India. Industry insiders point out that "Homebound" marks a significant shift in Indian cinema, which has traditionally focused on romantic comedies and melodramas. "This film is a game-changer," says producer Ronnie Screwvala. "It's a bold, unapologetic exploration of the human condition." The film's success is also seen as a testament to the growing influence of international collaborations in Indian cinema. "Homebound" has been making waves at various film festivals around the world, including the Toronto International Film Festival and the Mumbai Film Festival. With its powerful narrative, stunning cinematography, and outstanding performances from Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, it's no wonder that this film is being hailed as one of the year's best Indian films. As for what's next, Ghaywan has hinted at working on a new project with Scorsese, while Ishaan Khatter is set to star in several upcoming films. With "Homebound" cementing its place as a modern classic, it will be interesting to see how this talented team continues to push the boundaries of Indian cinema. Production Credits: Director: Neeraj Ghaywan Producers: Ronnie Screwvala and Dharma Productions Cast: Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and others Release Details: Premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival Released in India on [insert date] Available on streaming platforms worldwide *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*