Vishal Jethwa Reflects on Homebound's Oscar Journey Despite Missing Final Nominations
As the film Homebound did not secure a place among the final Oscar nominations, actor Vishal Jethwa has shared that the film's journey remains an extraordinary experience for him. He emphasized that being shortlisted among the final 15 films from 86 entries was itself a deeply humbling achievement, particularly given his modest beginnings in the industry.
A Humbling Experience from Modest Roots
In a conversation with IANS, Vishal Jethwa expressed his sentiments about the Oscar journey. "While we didn't make it to the final nominations, being shortlisted among the final 15 films from 86 entries itself has been deeply humbling for me," he said. "I come from a very modest, local space, where dreams often feel distant, so to see Homebound travel this far and represent India on a global platform already feels extraordinary."
The actor highlighted how this experience has reinforced his belief in the power of honest storytelling and cinema that originates from the heart. "Every step of this process has been a reminder of how far belief, perseverance, and sincerity can take you," he added, underscoring the personal and professional growth he has gained through this journey.
Gratitude Towards Collaborators and Future Outlook
Vishal extended his heartfelt gratitude to the key individuals involved in the film. "I'm deeply grateful to Neeraj Ghaywan for his vision, to Karan Johar for believing in this film, and to my co-actors Ishaan and Janhvi for being such inspiring collaborators," he stated. He carries this experience with pride and gratitude, looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in his career.
Oscar Shortlist and Indian Cinema Context
The five films that ultimately made it to the final Oscar shortlist include:
- 'The Secret Agent' from Brazil
- 'It Was Just an Accident' from France
- 'Sentimental Value' from Norway
- 'Sirat' from Spain
- 'The Voice of Hind Rajab' from Tunisia
Homebound, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, features a talented cast including Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor. The film explores the experiences of two childhood friends, portrayed by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, as they navigate life after attempting to pass the national police exam.
This Oscar journey highlights the ongoing efforts of Indian cinema on the global stage. The last Indian film to receive a nomination in this category was Aamir Khan's Lagaan in 2001. More recently, Payal Kapadia's 'All We Imagine As Light' garnered international recognition last year, even though it was not selected as India's official entry, showcasing the resilience and talent within the Indian film industry.
