Los Angeles: Indian cinema has returned to the international awards spotlight as 'Homebound' has advanced to the next stage of voting in the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. The Academy confirmed that fifteen films from across the world have been shortlisted for the next round of voting, with India’s entry securing a coveted place. 

The other films in the running include ‘Belen’ (Argentina), ‘The Secret Agent’ (Brazil), ‘It Was Just an Accident’ (France), ‘Sound of Falling’ (Germany), ‘The President's Cake’ (Iraq), ‘Kokuho’ (Japan), ‘All That's Left of You’ (Jordan), ‘Sentimental Value’ (Norway), ‘Palestine 36’ (Palestine), ‘No Other Choice’ (South Korea), ‘Sirat’ (Spain), ‘Late Shift’ (Switzerland), ‘Left-Handed Girl’ (Taiwan) and ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’ (Tunisia).

Announcing the update, the official Academy social media handle posted, "Fifteen films advanced to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category. Here's where they land on the map..."

The final Oscar nominations are expected to be revealed on Thursday, January 22.

Global acclaim for 'Homebound'

'Homebound' has already garnered widespread international recognition, with screenings at prestigious festivals including Cannes, Toronto, and Melbourne. With its recent Oscar shortlist, the film has now achieved a rare distinction, becoming only the fifth Indian film in history to be shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards.

Ishaan Khatter, who stars in the film alongside Vishal Jethwa, shared the milestone with fans via his Instagram stories, celebrating the achievement.

A story of friendship and ambition

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, 'Homebound' follows the journey of childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), whose shared dream of joining the police force shapes their lives. Janhvi Kapoor adds emotional depth to the narrative, exploring themes of friendship, duty, and the pressures faced by young adults in India.

The film is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta, with co-producers Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar serve as Executive Producers, adding further international prestige to the project.

"Fifteen films will advance to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category for the 98th Academy Awards. Films from 86 countries or regions were eligible in the category," the Academy’s official website stated. (ANI)