Toronto Film Festival: Homebound Wins 2Nd Runner-Up In International People's Choice Award

Mumbai (Maharashtra): The critically acclaimed film 'Homebound', which stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in the lead roles, has been named the second runner-up for the International People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival in Canada. The International People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival is being presented for the very first time ever, marking a new chapter in celebrating audience-favorite films. The recognition highlights the movie's strong impact on viewers and its growing international acclaim. It had earlier received praise at international film festivals like Cannes 2025. The Neeraj Ghaywan directorial is set to hit the theatres in India on September 26, 2025.  Produced under the banner of Dharma Productions, 'Homebound' also stars Janhvi Kapoor in the lead role. Taking to their Instagram handle, Dharma Productions shared the release date of the movie on Saturday. "No feeling is final. #Homebound is releasing in cinemas on 26th September, worldwide," wrote Dharma Productions.

A post shared by Homebound (@homeboundthefilm)

 What is the Plot of Homebound?

As per Variety, 'Homebound' revolves around two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who chase a police job that promises them the dignity they've long been denied. But as they inch closer to their dream, mounting desperation threatens the bond that holds them together. Director Neeraj Ghaywan described 'Homebound' as“a deeply personal story about friendship, dignity, and survival.” "It's about people who are often unseen, and the quiet strength they carry in a world that rarely pauses for them," said the director, adding that he hopes the film“helps us look closer--with empathy--and see what we've been conditioned to ignore.” Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese serves as an executive producer on the film. In an official note shared by the film's team, Martin Scorsese praised 'Homebound' prior to its screening in Cannes 2025 earlier this year. "I have seen Neeraj's first film Masaan in 2015 and I loved it, so when Melita Toscan du Plantier sent me the project of his second film, I was curious. I loved the story, the culture, and was willing to help. Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that's a significant contribution to Indian Cinema. I am glad the movie is an official selection at Un Certain Regard in Cannes this year," Scorsese said.  The film recently received a 9-minute-long standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, reported Variety.

(With inputs from ANI)

MENAFN14092025007385015968ID1110059901