Martin Scorsese Joins Neeraj Ghaywan as Executive Producer

Martin Scorsese has come on board as the executive producer of the Indian film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. The film is set for a theatrical release on September 26, 2025, and is India’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, highlighting the global attention the film has garnered.

Neeraj Ghaywan on the Oscar Entry and Scorsese’s Involvement

Neeraj Ghaywan, the director of Homebound, expressed his excitement after the film was selected as India’s entry for the Oscars 2026. He said,

“I am, of course, pleased for myself and for our producer Karan Johar. If as you say, Homebound has a good chance of bringing home the Oscar, then I am most happy.”

Ghaywan also revealed that the film has gained momentum since its premiere, particularly after catching the attention of Martin Scorsese, who agreed to join as executive producer.

“That was most unexpected and highly flattering. I am hoping the film’s incredible journey takes it all the way to the shortlist of Oscar nominations,”

he added, reflecting on the honor that having Scorsese attached to the project brought.

Details About the Film Homebound

Homebound follows the story of two childhood friends, portrayed by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, living in rural North India. They dream of becoming police officers, but their ambitions are complicated by religious and caste-related barriers. The narrative also includes Janhvi Kapoor’s character, Sudha Bharti, a fellow student, weaving together themes of friendship, aspiration, and discrimination.

The film draws inspiration from a real essay published in The New York Times about migrant workers during the COVID-19 lockdown in India. Set against this pandemic backdrop, it examines societal inequalities and personal struggles, offering a poignant commentary on human dignity. An OTTplay review encapsulates its essence, stating,

“It’s a reminder of the privileges we often overlook and a plea to make the world better for those who’ve never had the luxury of choice. It’s not an easy film to watch—but it shouldn’t be. Neeraj Ghaywan holds up a mirror, and what you see may not be flattering. But if you’re willing to sit with that discomfort, Homebound will stay with you long after you leave the theatre,”

highlighting the film’s emotional and social impact.

The Film’s Journey at Festivals and Its Production Team

Homebound received a standing ovation at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival, further cementing its critical acclaim. It premiered earlier at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it caught the attention of worldwide audiences. The film is produced by notable figures including Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra. Neeraj Ghaywan’s direction and the associated production houses have contributed to giving this socially relevant story an international platform.

Where and When to Watch Homebound

Homebound will be released in theaters globally on September 26, 2025. Following its theatrical run, the film will become available on Netflix, expected around November 2025, roughly eight weeks after its cinema debut. This streaming release will make it accessible to a wider audience beyond the theaters, especially important given the film’s poignant themes and international recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homebound

Q: What inspired Homebound’s story?

A: Neeraj Ghaywan’s new film Homebound, which premiered in the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, finds its roots in a poignant real-life story first told in a New York Times op-ed during India’s COVID-19 lockdown.

Q: Who are the primary cast members of Homebound?

A: Produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, and directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa.

Q: Is Homebound releasing in theaters?

A: Yes. Homebound will hit theaters on September 26, 2025, worldwide.

The Significance of Scorsese’s Role and What Lies Ahead

Martin Scorsese’s decision to join Homebound as executive producer is a significant endorsement, potentially increasing the film’s visibility in international cinema and awards circuits. His involvement underlines the film’s quality and relevance, especially as it tackles urgent issues like caste discrimination and migrant hardships within a pandemic context. As Homebound progresses through its Oscar journey, the hope remains that it will earn a place among the nominations, drawing global attention to Indian social realities and filmmaking excellence.

With Homebound’s theatrical release imminent and streaming availability shortly after, viewers across the world will soon engage with this compelling story backed by a highly talented cast and crew, supported by the monumental influence of Martin Scorsese as executive producer. The film represents a meaningful convergence of Indian storytelling with international support, indicating a promising future for films that blend social consciousness with cinematic artistry.