Martin Scorsese has become a crucial supporter of the film Homebound, a poignant Indian drama now shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. His deep involvement during the editing process reflects the importance of the Martin Scorsese Homebound Collaboration, which shines a spotlight on the moving story of two migrant workers exploring identity and dignity in India.
A Story of Friendship, Displacement, and Dignity
Homebound centers on the growing bond between two migrant workers portrayed by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, who navigate the complexities of social identity and displacement. Both actors, familiar from notable works such as A Suitable Boy and Salaam Venky, describe their participation in the film as deeply transformative on both personal and professional levels.
Vishal Jethwa stated,
“This film has changed me as a person, also as a professional,”
adding,
“When I see how much I’ve grown after doing this film, the way I used to look at society before and now, I see a lot of changes in a positive way.”
Khatter echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the film’s unique atmosphere:
“It really feels like a film that has a very special air around it,”
he said.
“We worked on it with utmost sincerity, not for the rewards, but just to bring the story to life in the most authentic way.”
Martin Scorsese’s Dedicated Role Behind the Scenes
The involvement of Martin Scorsese as executive producer elevated the project significantly. Known for his legendary status, Scorsese worked late into the night reviewing numerous edits and collaborating with director Neeraj Ghaywan on refining the script. Khatter recalled their conversations, sharing,
“He was telling us that it would be around 11 p.m. when he would shut himself out in his room and kind of live with ‘Homebound’ and watch this film.”
He added,
“It’s just such a privilege and an honor to hear him talk about how he would be alone in his room watching your work.”
During filming, the crew affectionately referred to Scorsese as Bade Papa, meaning Big Daddy, highlighting the respect and warmth surrounding his mentorship. Jethwa reflected on meeting Scorsese, saying,
“Meeting him, I got to know why he’s legendary,”
and shared the significance of his praise:
“Knowing that someone legendary like Martin Scorsese has seen your work and is praising your work, it is more than anything to me. It already feels like we have received some big awards.”
Creative Collaboration Driven by Purpose and Authenticity
The creative environment of Homebound was shaped by the partnership between director Neeraj Ghaywan, noted for his socially conscious storytelling, and Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, a powerhouse in Indian commercial cinema. Khatter highlighted this synergy:
“Karan produced a film like this because he wanted to do something meaningful with Neeraj. He never pressured Neeraj to make a certain kind of film. He only empowered him to make his film the best way that he can.”
Ghaywan’s approach to directing involved unique methods designed to enhance authenticity. On set, he implemented a technique called Code 360, where the crew whispered and communicated only through the emotional tone appropriate for each scene. He also crafted specific music playlists for actors to help them connect deeply with their roles.
Jethwa remarked on Ghaywan’s immersive style:
“Neeraj has this way where he is very involved with all the actors. He makes this atmosphere that helps actors perform even in a better way. He gave us a lot of weapons, like language, and he also told us to lose weight so that we don’t look muscular on screen.”
Commitment to True Stories and Empathy
The film’s final chapter draws from actual events, adding gravitas to the actors’ portrayals. Both Khatter and Jethwa engaged in extensive preparation to deliver honest and respectful performances. Khatter explained,
“We wanted to make it authentic and nothing else, and not to pander to a certain gaze. The beauty of Neeraj’s cinema is that it’s inherently very Indian but has a universal idiom.”
Homebound has struck a chord globally, with audiences at festivals like Cannes, Toronto, and others responding to its powerful themes of empathy and human connection. Jethwa highlighted this universal appeal, stating,
“What we are craving for right now as humans is empathy. People in some or the other way, unknowingly also discriminate people because of how they look, what they talk, what they eat, and their belief system. This film is very important to each and everyone.”
Actors Focus on Recognition Through Genuine Storytelling
As the film’s Oscar campaign gains momentum, the cast remains grounded in their goals. Jethwa said,
“I’m just enjoying this process a lot because only very few actors get this opportunity to even go for an Oscar campaign. I really hope the best film wins, and I also hope that ‘Homebound’ is the best film.”
Khatter expressed similar sentiments about the power of the work itself, stating,
“The thing that gives me the confidence to enjoy this moment is the fact that I know we’ve made a beautiful and honest film. The film speaks for itself, and that is the best thing we can do — just make sure it reaches people.”
