People often say that movies can really touch your heart, make you rethink your life choices, and remind you of important truths. I used to doubt this idea, thinking it wasn’t always the case. While some great films definitely inspire deep thoughts, others help you realize that just having a roof over your head is a privilege. This is what I experienced after watching “Homebound,” directed by Neeraj Ghaywan. Featuring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in pivotal roles, the film offers a wake-up call about life, rural India, and more. In this week’s review from unstumbled, we take a closer look at Homebound.
What Is Homebound About and What To Expect
Homebound is a powerful film that runs for just over two hours. It tells the story of two childhood friends: Mohammed Shoaib Ali, a Muslim boy who dreams of becoming a police officer (played by Ishaan Khatter), and Chandan Kumar, a Dalit boy with the same aspiration (played by Vishal Jethwa). Set in a rural village in Madhya Pradesh, the film highlights their struggles as they pursue their dream of providing a stable life for their families. To know more about the locations, you can read our shooting location guide here.
As the story unfolds, we see Mohammed and Chandan face numerous challenges, from working in a mill in Surat to walking home during the first phase of the COVID pandemic. Their determination for a better future is truly inspiring and makes you rethink your own life choices. Along the way, we also meet Sudha Bharti, Chandan’s love interest, who has different social views (played by Janhvi Kapoor). Though her role is more of a cameo, she leaves a memorable impact in her scenes.
Homebound not only sheds light on the struggles faced by mill workers during the pandemic but also reveals the hidden realities of rural India, often overshadowed by the glamour of urban life. With compelling performances, a tight script, and sharp dialogue, the film encourages you to reflect on issues like caste discrimination and rural challenges, serving as a mirror to our humanity.
unstumbled’s Take: Worth A Watch Or Not
If you enjoy movies that offer a slower pace and prompt you to reflect on life and the world around you, then this film is for you. However, if you prefer comedy and action, you might want to skip it. Overall, unstumbled gives this a must-watch movie score, as it represents the essence of pure cinema. From the cinematography to the background score, every actor in the film delivers a standout performance. Homebound allows you to experience a wide range of emotions, including rage and grief.
