Ishaan Khatter has penned a heartfelt note following the disappointment of his film "Homebound" being snubbed from the Oscars nominations. The movie, which was India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, was shortlisted but ultimately did not make the final cut.
Emotional Response from the Actor
Taking to Instagram on Friday, Khatter shared a series of behind-the-scenes pictures from the film along with a lengthy, emotional message. He expressed his deep connection to the project, writing, "'Homebound' is and always was a piece of my heart. It's a story that took us through a journey inwards after daring to look outside the bubble we identify ourselves in."
The actor further elaborated on the film's significance, stating, "As difficult a reality as it mirrors, this film has always ultimately been hopeful to me in every way I can relate to it, as a human being, as a cinema person, and a young actor." He emphasized that he will always look back at the film's journey with love and gratitude, calling it a "moral compass."
Film Details and Background
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, "Homebound" premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival in May last year. The film is inspired by an article titled "Taking Amrit Home" by journalist Basharat Peer in The New York Times. It features a star-studded cast including Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles.
The narrative chronicles the childhood friendship between a Muslim and a Dalit character, both aspiring to join the police force in search of dignity and social acceptance long denied to them due to their surnames. Notably, Hollywood filmmaker Martin Scorsese is attached to the project as an executive producer, adding to its prestige.
Co-Star's Reaction
Vishal Jethwa also shared his thoughts on Instagram, acknowledging the heartbreak of missing out on an Oscar nomination but expressing pride in the team's efforts. He wrote, "Yes, we couldn't make it to the Oscars nominations, and of course, it broke the hope we carried with us. But I believe failure is not when you fail; it's when you don't try."
Jethwa highlighted the achievement of making it to the top 15 shortlist, saying, "I am proud of the fact that we could make it to the top 15 and am fully satisfied with what we were able to do, having our name associated with the prestigious name called the Oscars. It's more than what I ever imagined, desired or deserved." He extended gratitude to the directors and his co-stars, referring to them as his "'Homebound' family."
Oscars Announcement and Aftermath
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles on Thursday, which did not include "Homebound." Despite this setback, the film has garnered critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and social commentary.
Khatter's note concluded with a message of resilience, quoting, "Homebound no feeling is final," suggesting that the journey and impact of the film extend beyond awards recognition. The actor's candid reflection has resonated with fans and the film community, sparking discussions about the value of artistic expression over accolades.
