Mumbai, Jan 6 (NationPress) As Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa’s film Homebound races towards the Oscars, acclaimed director Martin Scorsese has expressed that he was “deeply moved” by the film's narrative, which secured a place among 15 contenders for the International Feature Film category.

The Academy Awards announced on X that “fifteen films have advanced to the next stage of voting in the International Feature Film category.”

Homebound from India is competing with notable films like Argentina’s BELÉN, Brazil’s THE SECRET AGENT, IT WAS JUST AN ACCIDENT from France, Germany’s SOUND OF FALLING, Iraqi film THE PRESIDENT’S CAKE, Japan’s KOKUHO, Jordan’s ALL THAT’S LEFT OF YOU, Norwegian film SENTIMENTAL VALUE, Palestine’s PALESTINE 36, South Korea’s NO OTHER CHOICE, Spanish movie SIRÂT, Switzerland’s LATE SHIFT, Taiwan’s LEFT-HANDED GIRL, and Tunisia’s THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB.

According to the tweet, Oscar nominations will be revealed on Thursday, January 22nd.

As Neeraj Ghaywan’s film moves forward in the Oscar race, Scorsese took to Instagram, sharing a video where he discusses the film with the National Award-winning director.

In the caption, Scorsese noted: “I’m thrilled to be involved as an Executive Producer on HOMEBOUND (@homeboundthefilm), which has been shortlisted for the Best International Feature category at this year’s Academy Awards. I was deeply moved by this true story of two young men whose friendship and quest for dignity highlight the need for empathy and human connection in a divided world.”

The renowned director recalled reading the script for Homebound: “I remember collaborating on the script with you. I’ve been connected to it for about three years. It’s fulfilling to see it reach this stage. I hope American audiences will appreciate this film, which is based on a true story.”

Scorsese added: “Beyond the tragedy we all faced during COVID, there is joy in the lives of these two characters. I admire your approach to storytelling, focusing on humanity rather than delivering a heavy-handed lecture.”

“In this case, we delve into the humanity of these two young men and their families.”

Ghaywan shared that his vision for the film was to move away from sloganeering and political grandstanding. “The vehicle of friendship is powerful; it serves as a form of resistance. In a world filled with hate, we tend to label others based on superficial traits. This must change,” he stated in the video.

He concluded: “It’s time to empathize with our adversaries. We can disagree ideologically but must remember the humanity that connects us. This film embodies that intent.”

Ghaywan expressed gratitude to Scorsese in the comments, saying: “I will always appreciate your kindness and support. Your insights have been invaluable in shaping this film for audiences worldwide!”

Ishaan Khatter expressed his appreciation: “Receiving recognition from your esteemed perspective is a treasure. Thank you for your grace, sir. Your contribution to our film is truly priceless.”

The film narrates the story of Shoaib and Chandan, childhood friends from a small village in North India who aspire to become police officers, seeking the respect they never had. However, as they near their goal, pressures and challenges threaten their friendship.