Homebound Writer Sumit Roy Reflects on Oscars 2026 Snub and Campaign Challenges
Neeraj Ghaywan's critically acclaimed film 'Homebound' has faced disappointment in the Oscars 2026 race, failing to secure a nomination despite a dedicated campaign effort. The film's team, including producer Karan Johar, had actively pushed for recognition in the Best International Feature Film category, but it ultimately did not make the final list. In the wake of this setback, writer Sumit Roy has come forward to share his candid thoughts on the experience and the broader landscape for Indian films at global awards.
The Uphill Battle of Oscar Campaigns for Indian Cinema
In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Sumit Roy opened up about the immense difficulties involved in mounting an Oscar campaign. "Running an Oscar campaign is hard, complicated, and very, very expensive—sometimes the cost of the campaign is more than the film itself," Roy revealed. He emphasized that this creates a significant barrier for most Indian productions, making it an uphill battle to compete on the international stage.
Roy expressed gratitude towards Karan Johar and Dharma Productions for their relentless efforts. "I have to say Karan and Dharma have done a terrific job, moved heaven and earth to get us the best chance possible!" he stated, acknowledging that the team left no stone unturned in their pursuit of Oscar glory. Despite the snub, Roy believes they could not have done anything more, given the fierce competition against approximately 90 of the world's best films.
Navigating the Complexities of International Recognition
Delving deeper into the process, Roy explained that the first major hurdle is capturing the attention of Academy voters and ensuring they actually watch the film to secure votes. "Running the film at festivals becomes handy to create buzz around the film," he noted, highlighting the importance of platforms like Cannes, where 'Homebound' premiered in May 2025. This festival exposure is crucial for generating the necessary momentum and visibility among global audiences and industry insiders.
Roy also underscored the broader significance of nominations in global award shows. "Getting nominated in global award shows helps open up Indian cinema to more people worldwide," he said, pointing out that such recognition can elevate the profile of Indian films internationally. However, he stressed that the Indian film industry needs more robust support from producers, filmmakers, and actors to sustain these ventures and enhance their chances on the world stage.
About 'Homebound': A Star-Studded Production with High Hopes
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, 'Homebound' features a talented cast including Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. The film first premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, garnering positive reviews, and was subsequently released in theaters in September 2025. Backed by Karan Johar, the project also boasted Hollywood legend Martin Scorsese as its executive producer, adding to its prestige and global appeal.
As India's official entry for the Oscars 2026 nomination race in the Best International Feature Film category, 'Homebound' represented a significant hope for Indian cinema. While the snub is a setback, Roy's insights shed light on the persistent challenges and the need for continued efforts to bridge the gap between Indian films and international accolades.
