Homebound Movie Review (INCLUDES SPOILERS!)| Anupama Chopra | THR India

Film critic Anupama Chopra delivers an emotional and comprehensive review of "Homebound," director Neeraj Ghaywan's powerful return to cinema after his acclaimed debut "Masaan." Anupama explores how Neeraj transforms Basharat Peer's heartbreaking New York Times article about migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic into a searing portrait of friendship between two marginalized young men. She examines the film's central relationship between Shoaib, a Muslim youth, and Chandan, a Dalit boy, as they pursue their dream of becoming police officers while navigating systemic discrimination and poverty in contemporary India.

In this deeply personal review, Anupama highlights the exceptional performances by Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, praising Ishaan's return to his roots after his debut in Majid Majidi's "Beyond the Clouds." She discusses how Neeraj continues his tradition of chronicling marginalized lives with control and craft, comparing powerful scenes to Raj Kapoor's classic "Jagte Raho." Anupama calls "Homebound" the best Hindi film of 2025 so far, warning viewers to prepare for an emotional experience while celebrating the film's message that small acts of kindness can save the world.