Janhvi Kapoor’s newest picture, Homebound, has been a tremendous step on the international film front by getting shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards under the International Feature Film category. Neeraj Ghaywan is the director of the Indian drama that has become one of the 15 movies selected for the shortlist across the globe and thus, a plethora of cultures and countries is represented.
Homebound in the Oscar Race
The shortlist was published by the Motion Picture Academy, which included films from all parts of the world such as Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, East Asia, and India, indicating how highly competitive this year’s contest is. The very Indian Homebound is in competition with titles like Argentina’s Bel N, France’s It Was Just an Accident, Brazil’s The Secret Agent, Germany’s Sound of Falling, and Iraq’s The President’s Cake.
Having come to such a level is already a big notch in the belt of Indian movies; this is especially true because the competition is increasing in the already tough category of International Feature Film. On the other hand, even though shortlisting does not automatically result in a nomination, still, it acts as a master key to the world market and opens the film’s door wide before the final voting round that gives away the five official nominees. The list of final Oscar nominees was expected to be announced on January 22, 2026, and the actual Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15.
Homebound Streaming on OTT
Homebound featuring Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa was released on Netflix on November 21, 2025, and now the film is available for online viewing. Storyline depicts two friends believing that a government job is the only way to gain people’s respect. The heart of the story comprises their attempts at getting a police job and the hurdles that they encounter on the way.
This achievement considers Homebound as one of the most awaited Indian movies of the awards season and a must-see for international viewers who are discovering the modern Indian cinema.
