Mumbai: As the global awards season brought international cinema into focus, Indian actor Vishal Jethwa marked a significant milestone in his career with Homebound, a film that made it to the Academy Awards shortlist. While the film did not secure a final Oscar nomination, its inclusion among the top 15 shortlisted films out of 86 international entries stood as a moment of pride and validation for the actor and the entire creative team.
For Vishal Jethwa, the Oscar shortlist journey was far from a disappointment. Instead, it represented recognition of years of perseverance, quiet dedication, and faith in meaningful storytelling. Coming from a modest background, the actor described the achievement as extraordinary, highlighting how sincere performances and honest narratives can transcend borders and resonate with global audiences.
Sharing his reflections, Vishal said that reaching the Oscar shortlist itself felt like a win. Representing India on a prestigious international platform reaffirmed his belief that cinema rooted in emotional truth has the power to travel far beyond expectations. The experience strengthened his conviction in choosing stories driven by authenticity rather than trends.
The actor expressed heartfelt gratitude to director Neeraj Ghaywan for shaping Homebound into a globally relevant narrative, and to producer Karan Johar for backing the film and trusting its emotional depth. Vishal also acknowledged the contribution of his co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, describing them as inspiring collaborators who enriched the film through their performances.
Looking ahead, Vishal Jethwa views this phase as a defining moment that has given him a broader perspective on his career. Rather than focusing on the absence of a final nomination, he sees the experience as a strong foundation for future creative risks and growth. Being part of an internationally recognised project early in his journey, he believes, has instilled renewed motivation and confidence.
While Homebound concluded its journey at the shortlist stage, the final Oscar lineup featured films from across the world, including The Secret Agent (Brazil), It Was Just an Accident (France), Sentimental Value (Norway), Sirât (Spain), and The Voice of Hind Rajab (Tunisia), reflecting the Academy’s growing appreciation for culturally rich and character-driven stories.
India’s association with the Oscars has seen limited but memorable milestones, with Lagaan being the last Indian film to receive a nomination in this category in 2001. In recent years, films like Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light have further highlighted India’s evolving presence on the global cinema stage. Homebound now adds to this narrative of Indian films earning international recognition.
At its heart, Homebound tells the story of two childhood friends navigating adulthood after attempting to clear the national police examination. Exploring themes of ambition, friendship and societal pressure, the film presents a grounded portrayal of contemporary Indian realities—an approach that helped it connect with critics and audiences worldwide.
