As a director, Neeraj Ghaywan has already made a significant impact with his first film, Masaan, and this time he returns with a realistic film, Homebound, in his unique style. Once again, he has created a film that leaves the audience in silence in a dark theater. He has made a film that reveals many truths of this country. He has created a film that touches the heart directly. He has made a film that has received an official entry for the Oscars.
The film Homebound honestly depicts poverty, friendship, ambitions, and the harsh realities of society. The backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic makes it even more impactful. Homebound stars Vishal Jethwa, Ishan Khatter, and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles.
Story
The story of Homebound showcases the ups and downs in the lives of two friends—Chandan (Vishal Jethwa) and Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter). They are very special friends whose small joys, big wishes, families wrapped in poverty, and burdens of responsibilities are all the same, and they stand by each other in happiness and sorrow. Both participate in the police recruitment exam. Chandan passes, but Shoaib fails. Chandan falls in love with Sudha (Janhvi Kapoor), but the pressure of his career and hasty decisions weaken their relationship. Shoaib gets an opportunity to go to Dubai, but his attachment to his country and family stops him, and he takes a job as an office boy. After Chandan leaves the city, distances grow between them until fate reunites them in an emotional way. Then comes the pandemic, which shook the whole world.
Acting
Vishal Jethwa has portrayed the character of Chandan with complete authenticity. His demeanor reflects the identity of a small-town boy. Ishaan Khatter has infused life into his character, especially leaving a deep impact towards the end. Janhvi Kapoor is good in her role, showcasing innocence, although her tone could have been slightly better. Harshika Parmar delivers a heart-touching dialogue as Chandan’s sister. The roles of Shoaib and Chandan’s parents are also performed excellently.
Writing and Direction
Along with direction, Neeraj has also contributed to the writing of Homebound. The story by Basharat Peer, Varun Grover, and Neeraj Ghaywan is inspired by true events. Their story touches the heart. The screenplay beautifully intertwines the warmth of friendship with the harsh realities of society. The struggles for jobs, career challenges, and difficulties during the pandemic are deeply embedded in the story. The film’s script is tight, and with a runtime of about two hours, it concludes without any interruptions.
The cinematography of the film beautifully captures the closeness of friendship and the silence of the pandemic. The locations and production design feel very authentic. Neeraj Ghaywan’s direction is calm and balanced. He succeeds in conveying what he wants to through his film. The honest presentation of friendship and struggle in Homebound is touching. The climax is particularly impact and chilling. Depicting the pandemic period sensitively without sensationalism is a significant achievement for Neeraj Ghaywan.
Conclusion
Homebound is a story that touches the heart, connecting friendship, social struggles, career dilemmas, and personal choices. There is pin-drop silence in the theater. This means the film leaves such an impact that not a single second diverts your gaze and attention. If you enjoy realistic and emotional cinema like this, Homebound is definitely a film worth watching. I am sure that when you watch Homebound, you will emotionally connect with it. You might even find your eyes welling up. I give this film 4 stars.
