Cannes [France]: A decade after his acclaimed debut Masaan, director Neeraj Ghaywan made a powerful return to the Cannes Film Festival with his latest feature, Homebound, which premiered on Wednesday at the 78th edition of the festival.
The screening of Homebound received an emotional 9-minute standing ovation, with audience members erupting in applause as the film concluded. Footage circulating online shows a visibly moved Ghaywan holding back tears and embracing producer Karan Johar. Lead actor Ishaan Khatter was also seen tearing up during the extended applause.
A Story of Friendship, Dignity, and Struggle
According to Variety, Homebound follows two childhood friends from a rural village in North India who aspire to join the police force—a job they believe will bring long-awaited respect and security. But as their dreams near reality, growing desperation threatens the very bond that sustains them.
“Homebound is a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival,” said Ghaywan.
“It’s about people who are often unseen, and the quiet strength they carry in a world that rarely pauses for them. I hope the film helps us look closer—with empathy—and see what we’ve been conditioned to ignore.”
A Global Endorsement: Martin Scorsese Joins as Executive Producer
In a major endorsement, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese came on board as executive producer for Homebound. In an official statement shared by the film’s team, Scorsese praised Ghaywan’s work:
“I saw Neeraj’s first film Masaan in 2015 and loved it. When Melita Toscan du Plantier sent me the project of his second film, I was curious—and I loved the story and the culture. Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that’s a significant contribution to Indian cinema.”
“I’m glad the movie is an official selection at Un Certain Regard in Cannes this year,” Scorsese added.
Cast & Crew
- Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
- Cast: Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, Vishal Jethwa
- Producers: Karan Johar, Dharma Productions
- Executive Producer: Martin Scorsese