The prestigious Toronto International Film Festival 2025 will feature the screening of Neeraj Ghaywan's movie Homebound, which stars Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, and Vishal Jethwa.

Going back home to screen at the Toronto International Film Festival

Karan Johar, the movie's producer, announced the news on Wednesday with an excited social media message. The filmmaker shared on Instagram, "@tiff_net, #Homebound has been officially chosen for the Toronto International Film Festival 2025 in the Gala Presentations category. "Another time for us at Dharma" - incredibly pleased and happy to be a part of this distinguished festival.

The Cannes victory for "Homebound"

Following its debut at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, the picture has already caused a sensation worldwide. At Cannes, Neeraj Ghaywan's movie was given a nine-minute standing ovation. Later, pictures of the sobbing filmmaker surfaced on social media.

The plot of Homebound centers on two childhood pals from a tiny North Indian hamlet who pursue a career in the police force in order to gain the respect they have been denied for so long. But as they get closer to their goal, increasing despair threatens the relationship that binds them together.

In his words, the movie is "a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival."

Martin Scorsese's relationship with "Homebound"

Another feather in Homebound's cap is the TIFF screening. It had previously managed to secure the legendary director Martin Scorsese as an executive producer. Homebound received accolades from Martin Scorsese in an official letter that the film's crew shared.

Melita Toscan du Plantier sent me the idea for Neeraj's second movie, and I was intrigued because I had seen his first picture, Masaan, in 2015 and liked it. The story, the culture, and the chance to contribute all captivated me. Neeraj's film is a well-made and important addition to Indian cinema. Scorsese said, "I'm delighted the film is an official selection at Un Certain Regard in Cannes this year."

The movie is not yet available in India.

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