Neeraj Ghaywan's "Homebound," the only Indian feature selected for the 78th Cannes Film Festival this year, has made a significant impact, particularly within the Un Certain Regard section. The film received a 9-minute standing ovation, leaving the cast and crew overwhelmed with emotion.
"Homebound" explores the lives of Chandan Kumar and Mohammed Shoaib, two childhood friends from a marginalized community in North India, who aspire to become police officers. They believe this path will lead them to respect and a life free from the indignities they face daily. The film, set against a backdrop of societal challenges, delves into themes of caste discrimination, religious bias, and the struggles of India's invisible population.
The performances of Ishaan Khatter, who plays Mohammed, and Vishal Jethwa, who plays Chandan, have been widely praised for their natural and believable dynamic. Critics have noted that their on-screen friendship lends power to the story and underscores its coming-of-age elements. Khatter's portrayal captures the internal conflict of his character, particularly in moments where Mohammed faces discrimination. Jethwa authentically embodies the innocence of Chandan, drawing from his own experiences to bring depth to the role.
Janhvi Kapoor, who plays Sudha Bharti, a student the friends meet, has received mixed reviews. While some acknowledge her empathy and dedication to the role, noting her research and understanding of the character, others suggest her performance didn't quite reach the level of her co-stars. Ghaywan himself has stated Kapoor brought a genuine tenderness and moral clarity to her portrayal, highlighting her commitment to understanding the complexities of her character. Some reviews indicate that her acting felt like a struggle, in contrast to the more natural performances of Khatter and Jethwa.
The film also touches upon significant socio-political issues, including Hindu nationalism and the COVID-19 pandemic. Ghaywan doesn't shy away from addressing these issues directly, although some critics have pointed out that his approach is not always subtle. However, the powerful performances of the cast help to deliver the film's message effectively.
Director Neeraj Ghaywan's approach to filmmaking emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity. He strives to create a democratic environment on set, ensuring that at least 50% of each department comprises women and individuals from marginalized communities. He prioritizes creating a family-like atmosphere, fostering mutual respect and open communication among the cast and crew.
"Homebound" marks Ghaywan's return to Cannes after his debut film "Masaan," which also premiered in the Un Certain Regard section and won the FIPRESCI Prize and the Prix de l'Avenir. With "Homebound," Ghaywan broadens his scope, encompassing gender and class issues while exploring the impact of the pandemic on marginalized communities. Martin Scorsese served as an executive producer.
The film's premiere at Cannes has generated significant buzz, with many anticipating that it will follow a similar path to "All We Imagine As Light," a previous Cannes breakout about contemporary India. "Homebound" is expected to attract interest from art house distributors and streaming platforms, further amplifying its reach and impact. The film’s message emphasizes the importance of kindness and empathy towards those who are different.
